Adrenal crises in older patients

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Geriatric Medicine
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Adrenal crises are serious events linked to adrenal insufficiency, leading to hospital admissions and risks of cardiovascular events, acute kidney injury, and death.
• Population studies show adults over 60 have the highest incidence of adrenal insufficiency and adrenal crises, with incidence doubling in those aged 80+.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increased susceptibility of older adults to adrenal crises.
• To emphasize the need for improved prevention strategies in patients over 60.

Main Methods:

• Review of population-based studies on adrenal insufficiency and adrenal crisis incidence.
• Analysis of factors contributing to increased susceptibility in older adults.

Main Results:

• Adults over 60 years old exhibit the highest incidence of adrenal insufficiency and adrenal crises.
• The incidence of adrenal crisis significantly increases with advanced age (80+).
• Comorbidities and age-related factors may increase susceptibility and hinder prevention strategy implementation.

Conclusions:

• Older patients are at higher risk for adrenal crises due to comorbidities and potential gaps in prevention.
• Timely diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency and implementation of consensus-driven prevention strategies are recommended to reduce adrenal crises in individuals over 60.