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[Developmental adrenal tuberculosis. Value of x-ray computed tomography]
F Archambeaud-Mouveroux1, C Fressinaud, D Sautereau
1Service de médecine interne B-endocrinologie, hôpital du Cluzeau, Limoges.
La Revue De Medecine Interne
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Addison's disease can stem from adrenal tuberculosis, initially causing gland enlargement. Early CT diagnosis and tuberculosis treatment may reverse adrenal changes and potentially restore function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Addison's disease is often caused by autoimmune disorders.
- Adrenal tuberculosis is a less common but significant cause of Addison's disease.
Observation:
- Two cases of Addison's disease secondary to active adrenal tuberculosis were observed.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed adrenal gland hypertrophy, which was unilateral in one case and bilateral in the other.
Findings:
- Antituberculous chemotherapy led to progressive adrenal atrophy and calcification on repeat CT scans.
- Adrenal function remained impaired despite treatment, though recovery is sometimes possible.
- Adrenal tuberculosis can present unilaterally before becoming bilateral, with initial hypertrophy preceding hormonal deficiency.
Implications:
- CT is valuable for diagnosing the cause of Addison's disease and guiding antituberculous therapy.
- Unexplained adrenal hypertrophy warrants consideration of tuberculous etiology and potential treatment.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of adrenal tuberculosis may improve outcomes and potentially restore adrenal function.