Emergency department evaluation and management of patients with adrenal insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency is a challenging condition to diagnose and manage in the emergency department, and adrenal crisis remains a significant cause of morbidity and potential mortality. Rapid recognition of adrenal insufficiency and adrenal crisis is essential to ensure that life-saving therapy is initiated without delay. This issue provides a review of the etiology and pathophysiology of adrenal insufficiency and focuses on emergency department evaluation and treatment of this condition. The current literature was reviewed to provide an up-to-date guide and the best practices related to management of these diagnoses, as well as strategies for patient education and prevention.