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Addison's disease: identification and management in primary care.

Burton, C; Cottrell, E; Edwards, JJ

Authors

E Cottrell

JJ Edwards



Abstract

Addison’s disease (AD), also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a deficiency of glucocorticosteroids and mineral corticosteroids.1 This can result in an insidious, protracted presentation. Therefore, unsurprisingly, the diagnosis is often delayed2 and 60% of patients have seen two or more clinicians before the diagnosis is considered.3 Around one-half of patients with AD are diagnosed after an acute adrenal crisis,4 which can be rapidly fatal.5 Although tuberculosis is the most common cause of AD worldwide,1 in the developed world, autoimmune disease is the predominant cause.3 In the latter context, AD is often linked to other autoimmune diseases, such as, vitiligo.6

Acceptance Date Apr 6, 2015
Publication Date Sep 1, 2015
Journal British Journal of General Practice
Print ISSN 0960-1643
Publisher Royal College of General Practitioners
Pages 488 -490
DOI https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp15X686713
Keywords Addison Disease, diagnosis, differential, disease management, glucocorticoids, humans, primary health care
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.3399/bjgp15X686713