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Acute adrenal crisis Health Article

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Definition

Acute adrenal crisis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when there is not enough cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.

Alternative Names

Adrenal crisis; Addisonian crisis; Acute adrenal insufficiency

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The two adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys. They consist of the outer portion, called the cortex, and the inner portion, called the medulla. The cortex produces three types of hormones, all of which are called corticosteroids.

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid -- a corticosteroid that:

  • Helps regulate blood sugar (glucose)
  • Holds back the immune response
  • Is released as part of the body's response to stress

Cortisol production is regulated by a small gland just below the brain called the pituitary gland. Cortisol is essential for life.

Adrenal crisis occurs when:

Risk factors for adrenal crisis include:

Symptoms

Signs and tests

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Reviewer Info: Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 11/23/2009
 
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