Related Experiment Videos
[Adrenal insufficiency and antiphospholipid syndrome]
M A Christofilis1, P Silvestre-Aillaud, P Piquet
1Service de Nutrition, Maladies Métaboliques, Endocrinologie, CHU Timone, Marseille.
Annales D'Endocrinologie
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) can cause acute adrenal insufficiency due to bilateral adrenal hemorrhage. Early detection of antiphospholipid antibodies is crucial for managing adrenal insufficiency.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Hematology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent thrombosis or pregnancy complications.
- Adrenal insufficiency, a condition of inadequate adrenal hormone production, can be acute or chronic.
- Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage is a rare but serious cause of acute adrenal insufficiency.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old patient developed acute adrenal insufficiency post-operatively following lower limb ischemia.
- The patient tested positive for lupus anticoagulant, indicating the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies.
- The adrenal insufficiency was attributed to primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS).
Findings:
- PAPS can manifest as both acute and chronic adrenal insufficiency.
- Thrombosis and hemorrhage in the adrenal glands can lead to progressive atrophy.
- This etiology of adrenal insufficiency is not widely recognized by endocrinologists.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for screening antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with unexplained adrenal insufficiency.
- Highlights the potential for long-term hormone replacement therapy in affected individuals.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness and understanding of PAPS among healthcare professionals.