PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ADDISON’S DISEASE

Modifiable Factors: Non-Modifiable Factors:

• Use of medications, such as: • Women are more likely than men
▪ Ketoconazole • Ages between 30 and 50 years old
▪ Blood-thinners Autoimmune: Antibodies attacks the adrenal gland • AIDS
▪ Rifampicin • Adrenalectomy
▪ Phenytoin • Hypophysectomy
▪ Steroids • Cancer
• Hemorrhage Results to damage in the adrenal cortex
• Tumor

Reduced production of mineralocorticoids, androgen and glucocorticoid

Leads to no negative feedback to the body’s system

LEGEND
Increased production of the corticotropin-releasing hormone in the hypothalamus

Pink Boxes: Modifiable &

Non-modifiable Factors
Stimulation of anterior pituitary gland
Blue Boxes: Disease Process

Results to high production of Yellow Boxes: Signs and Symptoms

Increased Melanocyte-
Stimulating Hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone
(ACTH)

Increased skin
pigmentation
 Decreased Decreased Decreased Androgens
Mineralocorticoids Glucocorticoids

Decreased Aldosterone Hypoglycemia Decreased Libido

leading to Decrease Secondary Sex
Characteristics
Menstrual Irreguralities
Increased Risk for Fractures
Increased Decreased water Affectation in Nervous
Potassium and sodium System due to inability
to create ATP

Hyperkalemia Dehydration

Confusion,
Hypotension
Increased Pulse Rate
Weight loss
Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
Abdominal Pain
Nausea and Vomiting