Addison's disease

Question 1

Describe Addison’s diseases and explain the two types of diseases

Answer 1

Description:
• The adrenal gland produces insufficient or no steroid hormones: glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids
• Affects both sexes and ages
• Also known as chronic adrenal insufficiency, hypocortisolism (low cortisol) and hypoadrenalism (low aldosterone)

Two types:
• Primary adrenal insufficiency: Cortisol and aldosterone are not produced
• Secondary: Either one or both hormones are produced but the body is unable to use them

Question 2

Describe the role of steroid hormones and the thyroid glands in health (3 hormones)

Answer 2

Cortisol/ glucocorticoid
• Maintains BGL, reduce inflammation and regulate balance of water

Aldosterone/ mineralocorticoid
• Maintains sodium and water balance (blood volume and pressure)

Thyroid gland
• Controls important metabolic processes, such as growth and energy expenditure

Question 3

List the oral signs and symptoms for Addison’s disease (2)

Answer 3

• Diffuse, ill-defined melanin pigmentation of the buccal mucosa
• Bronzing of the skin