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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
06:08
A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
[Isolated cutaneous pigmentation: adrenal insufficiency may be the cause]
Talel Badri1, Faten Zeglaoui, Karima Khiari
1Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, Tunis, Tunisie. talel_badri@yahoo.fr
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|March 6, 2007
Summary
Addison's disease, a primary adrenocortical hormone deficiency, can present with skin pigmentation. Early hormonal testing is crucial for diagnosis and preventing adrenal insufficiency.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Addison's disease is a global deficiency in adrenocortical hormones due to adrenal gland destruction.
- It can manifest subtly, making early diagnosis challenging.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old presented with photosensitivity and skin pigmentation on sun-exposed areas and oral mucosa.
- Initial electrolyte levels were normal, but hormonal tests revealed low plasma cortisol and high plasma ACTH.
- The patient tested negative on the synacthen test, indicating adrenal insufficiency.
Findings:
- Hormonal testing confirmed Addison's disease despite the absence of electrolyte imbalances.
- Autoimmune etiology was suspected due to positive antithyroid antibodies.
Implications:
- Persistent skin pigmentation, even without other symptoms, warrants consideration for Addison's disease.
- Prompt hormonal testing is vital to diagnose Addison's disease and avert acute adrenal crisis.
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