Disorders of the Adrenal Gland

Question 1

What are the disorders of the adrenal gland (4)

Answer 1

1. Addison’s Disease
2. Cushing Syndrome
3. Primary Aldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome)
4. Pheochromocytoma

Question 2

This disease is due to primary adrenocortical insufficiency (Low ACTH)

It may also be due to idiopathic atrophy of the adrenal cortex possibly due to an autoimmune process

Answer 2

ADDISON’S DISEASE

Question 2

What diagnostic finding are present in Addison’s disease (4)

Answer 2

1. Low cortisol level
2. Hyponatremia
3. Hyperkalemia
4. Hypoglycemia

Question 3

It is due to Excessive secretion of corticosteroids, particularly the glucocorticoid cortisol (High Cortisol levels)

Answer 3

CUSHING SYNDROME

Question 4

What hormone replacement therapy is given to patients with Addison’s disease?

Answer 4

1. Glucocorticoids
2. Mineralocorticoids

Question 5

What are the common features in cushing syndrome?

Answer 5

• Thin arms & legs
• Moon face
• Buffalo hump
• Pendulous abdomen

Question 5

Cushing syndrome is common in females ages __

Answer 5

30-60

Question 6

Conn’s Syndrome is also known as ____

Answer 6

PRIMARY ALDOSTERONISM

Question 7

This is due to excessive secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine due to functioning tumor at the adrenal medulla

Answer 7

PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA

Question 7

It is due to excessive aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex

• Frequent in women between ages 30 to 50
• Caused by tumor or hyperplasia of adrenal gland

Answer 7

PRIMARY ALDOSTERNISM (CONN’S SYNDROME)

Question 8

What electrolyte imbalance does primary aldosteronism cause?

Answer 8

HYPOKALEMIA

Question 9

The 5 H’s of Pheochromocytoma

Answer 9

1. headache
2. hypertension
3. hyperhidrosis
4. hypermetabolism
5. hyperglycemia