The Facts
Addison's disease, also know as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare
condition that affects the body's hormonal activity. It is named after Dr.
Thomas Addison, who discovered it in 1849.
Addison's disease occurs when the body is not able to make enough of the
hormones cortisol and/or aldosterone. Each hormone works differently within
the body. If either hormone is not present in sufficient amounts, there is an
effect on many body systems. Blood pressure, the immune system, metabolism,
sexual function, and insulin levels are just some of the body's duties that
these hormones affect on a daily basis.
Causes
Addison's disease, also know as primary adrenal insufficiency, is caused
by a problem within the adrenal glands themselves. Usually, this occurs
when the immune system attacks the adrenal glands. Tuberculosis infection can
also damage the adrenal glands.
A similar condition called secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the
pituitary gland does not make enough adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), a hormone that
stimulates the adrenal glands. This may be caused by pituitary tumors, brain
surgery, reduced blood flow to the brain, or brain infections. It can also be
caused by suddenly stopping corticosteroid medications after taking them for
a prolonged period of time. In this case, the problem is usually temporary.
