Addison Disease Concept Map PDF

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Addison Disease Concept Map Definition Addison disease is a rare but serious adrenal gland disorder in which the body can’t produce enough of two critical hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. It is also termed as primary adrenal insufficiency. (Autoimmune)

Causes       

Injury to the adrenal glands. Infection, including tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS related infections, and fungal infections. Cancer cells from another part of the body that have invaded the adrenal glands. Bleeding into the adrenal glands. Surgical removal of the adrenal glands. Amyloidosis (abnormal buildup of certain proteins in the organs). Genetic defects.

Clinical Manifestations       

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Extreme weakness Fatigue Unintentional weight loss Nausea and vomiting Chronic diarrhea Loss of appetite Darkening of the skin – patchy skin color  Unnaturally dark color in some locations  Paleness may also occur Mouth lesions on the inside of a cheek (buccal mucosa) – pigmentation Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement Low blood pressure or increased heart rate Hyponatremia

Diagnostics  Blood tests. These will be done to measure the levels of sodium, potassium, cortisol and ACTH in the blood.  ACTH stimulation test. This tests the adrenal glands’ response after given a shot of artificial ACTH. If the adrenal glands produce low levels of cortisol after the shot, they may not be functioning properly.  X-rays. These may be done to look for calcium deposits on the adrenal glands.  CT scan. To evaluate the adrenals and/or pituitary gland. It can show if the immune system has damaged the adrenal glands or if the glands are infected....