Etymed
adrenal insufficiency
Definition
A condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.
Clinical context
A 32-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with severe fatigue, weight loss, and orthostatic hypotension. She has been feeling unwell for several weeks and reports no appetite. Physical examination reveals darkened skin pigmentation. Laboratory studies show hyponatremia and hyperkalemia. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Mnemonic
Addison's disease: 'Aldosterone and cortisol DEFICIENCY leads to HYponatremia and HYPERkalemia'
These morphemes also unlock…
- adren/o — adrenal gland
- alve/o — hollow; small cavity
- a- — without; not
- suffici/o — sufficient; adequate
- -ency — state; condition