Adrenal Glands and disorders

Adrenal cortex releases:

 Mineralocorticoids: regulate fluid and mineral balance

 Glucocorticoids: regulate glucose metabolism
 Androgens: sex hormones

Addison’s Cushing’s syndrome

Chronic adrenocortical insufficiency i.e., Hyposecretion by adrenal

Hyperfunction of adrenal gland i.e., Increased secretion of cortisol
Definition glands
from the adrenal cortex
Decreased secretion of cortisol and aldosterone

Moon face appearance (very round face)

Increased pigmentation of skin and mucous membranes Buffalo hump at the neck (fat deposits)
 Excessive secretion of melanocyte stimulating hormone Protruding abdomen and stretch marks
(MSH)>> increased levels of melanin Muscle wasting and weakness: For example: Muscle weakness of
 Pigmentation visible on extensor surfaces: back of hands, quadriceps makes it hard for the patient to get out of the chair
elbows, knees, creases of hand, lips and mouth unassisted
Decreased bone density (the spine): marked osteoporosis
Clinical Features Hypotension Kyphosis and back pain
Progressive fatigue (improves with rest) Easy bruising
Hyperkalemia (generalized weakness and muscle flaccidity) Hypertension
Anorexia and weight loss Diabetes
Tendon calcification Delayed wound healing
Hypoglycemia Masculine effects for women: more hair growth etc.

PT treatment only after administration of cortisol

PT precautions and Any unexplained fever without other symptoms should be a warning
Fatigue management
management sign: refer to physician – cortisol suppresses the inflammatory
response of the body