[Adrenal cortex insufficiency caused by metastatic tumors]

Clinical features and the management of adrenal insufficiency are considered with reference to etiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Specifically considered are the management of patients with Addison's disease and metastases. Adrenal insufficiency may go unrecognized in the cancer patients because features such as nausea, vomiting, anorexia as well as orthostatic hypotension are not specific and may be mistakenly attributed to advancing malignancy or side effects of therapy. Prompt recognition and treatment of adrenal insufficiency can avert potentially life-threatening situations.