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Published on: September 15, 2017
Cardiac Manifestations of Adrenal Insufficiency
Matthew M Schumaecker1, Timothy R Larsen2, David C Sane2
1Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research, Pisa, Italy; Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Carilion Clinic and Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA.
Insights
Primary adrenal insufficiency, or Addison disease, affects 1 in 10,000 people. This review examines the known cardiac abnormalities associated with Addison disease, as the underlying causes remain unclear.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison disease) affects approximately 1 in 10,000 individuals.
- Existing research suggests a link between Addison disease and cardiac dysfunction.
- The precise mechanisms driving these cardiac abnormalities are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current knowledge on the cardiac manifestations of Addison disease.
- To explore the pathophysiology of cardiac abnormalities in patients with Addison disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of case reports and studies.
- Synthesis of existing research on cardiac function in Addison disease.
Main Results:
- Multiple studies indicate a correlation between Addison disease and cardiac abnormalities.
- The pathophysiology linking Addison disease to cardiac issues requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac involvement is a recognized, though incompletely understood, complication of Addison disease.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and guide clinical management.
Abstract:
It is estimated that the prevalence of primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison disease) is 1 in 10,000 people. There are multiple case reports and several studies that suggest a correlation between Addison disease and abnormalities of cardiac function. The pathophysiology of cardiac abnormalities in this condition is incompletely understood. This review explores what is currently known about the cardiac manifestations of Addison disease.
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