GROUP 13
ADDISON’S
DISEASE
INTRO….
Addison's disease is named after Thomas
Addison, an English physician who first
described the condition in 1855. Addison's
detailed observations and clinical work
helped establish the connection between
certain symptoms and dysfunction of the
adrenal glands.
DEFINITION
Addison's disease, also known as
PRIMARY ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY,
is a rare and chronic condition in which
the adrenal glands, located above the
kidneys, do not produce enough of
certain hormones, primarily cortisol and
aldosterone.
INCIDNECE
Prevalence: Addison's disease is relatively rare, with an estimated
prevalence of about 1 in 100,000 people globally.
Gender: It affects both males and females, though some studies
suggest it may be slightly more common in women than men, with a
ratio of approximately 2:1.
Age: The disease can occur at any age but is most commonly
diagnosed in middle-aged adults (ages 30–50).
Geography: Incidence rates may vary slightly by region but are
relatively consistent worldwide. In some populations, the incidence
can be higher due to autoimmune factors.
AETIOLOGY
1. Autoimmune Disease (Most Common
Cause)
2. Infections
3. Adrenal Gland Tumors
4. Adrenal Hemorrhage or Bleeding
5. Genetic Disorders
6. Medications
Other Rare Causes;
Amyloidosis
Sarcoidosis
Hemochromatosis
Histoplasmosis
8. Unknown Causes
In some cases, no clear cause for the adrenal
gland damage can be identified, even after
thorough testing
PATHOPHYYSIOLOGY
The pathophysiology of Addison's disease
involves;
1. Adrenal Gland Dysfunction
2. Primary vs. Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency
3. Hormonal Deficiencies
4. Increased ACTH Production
5. Electrolyte Imbalance
CLINICAL MANIFESTATION
1. Fatigue and Weakness
2. Weight Loss and Decreased Appetite
3. Hyperpigmentation
4. Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
5. Salt Craving
6. Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea
7. Hypoglycemia
8. Mood Changes
9. Menstrual Irregularities
DIAGNOSTIC TEST
1. Blood Tests: conduct a blood test to
know;
Cortisol levels
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone)
levels
Electrolytes
Renin and aldosterone levels
BUN (Blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine
CONT…..
2. ACTH Stimulation Test
(Cosyntropin Test)
3. Imaging Tests
4. Autoimmune Testing (if
suspected)
MEDICAL MANIFESTATION
1. Hormone Replacement Therapy: The
primary treatment involves replacing the deficient
hormones.
This typically includes:
Glucocorticoids: Medications such as
hydrocortisone, prednisone, or dexamethasone are
used to replace cortisol.
Mineralocorticoids: Fludrocortisone is often
prescribed to help maintain proper sodium and
potassium balance and regulate blood pressure.
CONT…..
2. Regular Monitoring
3. Stress Management
4. Education
5. Emergency Preparedness
6. Lifestyle Adjustments
7. Psychological Support
8. Regular Blood Tests
9. Avoiding Certain Medications
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Monitoring Vital Signs and Symptoms; Thus;
Blood Pressure
Heart Rate
Electrolytes
Weight
2. Administering Medications Like;
Corticosteroid and Mineralocorticoid Replacement
Stress Dosing
Ensure Correct Medication Use
CONT…...
3. Preventing Adrenal Crisis;
Educating the Patient and Family
Emergency Kit Education
Sick Day Protocol
4. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
Encourage Adequate Fluid Intake
Monitor for Signs of Dehydration or
Overhydration
Observe for Electrolyte Imbalances
CONT….
5. Promoting Adherence to Therapy
Provide Education on Long-term Therapy
Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Supporting Lifestyle Adjustments
6. Providing Emotional Support
Supportive Communication
CONT….
7. Postoperative and Stress
Management
Pre- and Post-Surgical Care
Education on Infections
COMPLICATION
Adrenal Crisis;
An adrenal crisis, also known as an Addisonian crisis, is a life-
threatening complication that occurs when the adrenal glands
suddenly stop producing cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms
include severe pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and low
blood pressure.
Can be triggered by physical stress, such as injury, infection, or
illness
Hyponatremia
A condition that occurs when there isn't enough sodium in the
CONT…...
Hyperkalemia
A condition that occurs when there's too much potassium in the blood
Mild hyperkalemia may not cause problems, but severe hyperkalemia can cause life-
threatening changes in heart rhythm
Shock
Can occur when blood pressure drops so low that the body goes into shock
Can be caused by dehydration
Other complications include;
Severe abdominal pain
Extreme weakness
Kidney failure
PREVENTION
1. Early Detection and Management of
Autoimmune Diseases
Monitor for Autoimmune Disorders
Prompt Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases
2. Infection Prevention
Infectious Causes
Tuberculosis Screening
3. Avoiding Adrenal Gland Injury
Protecting from Trauma
Surgical Risk Management
CONT….
4. Preventing Adrenal Insufficiency in At-
Risk Populations
Genetic Counseling
Management of Other Endocrine Disorders
5. Use of Corticosteroids
Minimize Long-Term Use of Corticosteroids
Gradual Tapering of Steroids
6. Preventing Adrenal Crisis
Education for Those at Risk
CONT….
7. Routine Health Monitoring
Regular Check-ups
8. Vaccination and Preventive Care
Vaccination Against Tuberculosis (TB)
Immunization and Preventive Health
9. Monitoring Pregnancy
THANK YOU
