Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

A Murine Model of a Burn Wound Reconstructed with an Allogeneic Skin Graft
Published on: August 8, 2020
Survival of a 75% burn in a patient with longstanding Addison's disease
S E James1, S J Ghosh, J Montgomerie
1Department of Plastic Surgery, St Andrew's Centre for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, UK.
Abstract:
This is the first reported case of survival of a significant burn in a patient with established Addison's disease. The systemic stress response to thermal injury is well recognised, there is a marked hypermetabolic response with prolonged periods of catabolism. In particular, the elevation of plasma cortisol levels is crucial for this response to severe systemic stress. Cortisol elevation is maintained for the duration of burn wound healing, is proportional to the burned body surface area and the normal circadian rhythm of endogenous cortisol is lost. Acute adrenal insufficiency has been described in patients suffering major burn injuries with generally poor outcomes. We discuss the management and complications of adrenal replacement therapy in a severe burn setting, as illustrated by this case report.
Related Concept Videos
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Kidney Transplant III: Nursing Management
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction
Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology

