Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2026

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Primary antiphospholipid syndrome associated with acute adrenal failure
K Takebayashi1, Y Aso, K Tayama
1Department of Medicine, Koshigaya Hospital, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Koshigaya, Japan. takeb@gmail.plala.or.jp
Abstract:
We describe a 48-year-old woman with primary antiphospholipid syndrome who developed acute adrenal failure after an operation for a uterine myoma. After surgery, she developed a preshock state with hypotension, hypoglycemia, and hyponatremia. A diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome was made based not only on her past history of skin ulceration and recurrent spontaneous abortions but also on the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies. An abdominal computed tomography showed a bilateral enlargement of the adrenal glands but no high-density region in either gland. The patient recovered from the shock-like syndromes after the administration of glucocorticoids. Because it is possible that patients with antiphospholipid syndrome have acute or chronic adrenal failure caused by repeated hemorrhage or thrombosis, it may be important to monitor adrenal function in patients when the presence of this antibody is detected.
Related Concept Videos
Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management