Addison disease is a condition most often caused by autoimmune issues. Researchers say that rare cases may be linked to genetics, which means the condition may run in families.
Addison disease, also called “primary adrenal insufficiency,” is a serious condition in which the adrenal glands don’t produce essential hormones in the body. Without treatment, this condition may lead to fatigue, weight loss, muscle weakness, and other symptoms.
Read on to find out what researchers are saying and more about what causes this rare condition.
Here’s more information about Addison disease.
The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys. They produce the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones play important roles throughout the body in the tissues and organs. Most cases of Addison disease are caused by damage to the adrenal glands from a variety of factors.
Experts suspect that, in
The disorders — such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and adrenoleukodystrophy — may affect the way the glands develop and how they function.
Additionally, a
Before the 2021 study, the human leukocyte antigen complex (proteins found in the white blood cells) was the
The other gene variations with a possible link to the disease include:
- BACH2
- PTPN22
- CTLA4
- LPP
- SH2B3
- SIGLEC5
- UBASH3A
More research is needed to fully understand the role these genes play in the development of Addison disease.
Damage to the adrenal glands in Addison disease is primarily caused by autoimmune issues. In fact, in between
Other causes may include:
- certain infections, such as tuberculosis or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- adrenal cancer
- adrenal removal surgery (adrenalectomy)
- bleeding into the adrenal glands (adrenal hemorrhage)
- certain medications, such as the anesthetic used for general anesthesia, etomidate, or antifungal medications
Language matters
You’ll notice we use the binary terms “women” and “men” in this article. While we realize these terms may not match every person’s gender experience, they’re the terms used by the researchers whose data was cited. We try to be as specific as possible when reporting on research participants and clinical findings.
Unfortunately, the studies and surveys referenced in this article didn’t report data for or may not have had participants who are transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, or genderless.
Addison disease is rare. Only between
Addison disease is often caused by autoimmune issues. The risk of developing it increases if a person has another autoimmune disease, including:
There’s no cure for Addison disease. It can be treated with medications to lessen inflammation (corticosteroids) and hormone replacements to restore the hormones that the adrenal glands aren’t producing.
These medications may replace hormones such as cortisol or aldosterone. For example, cortisol can be replaced with hydrocortisone, prednisolone, or dexamethasone, and aldosterone can be replaced with fludrocortisone.
Without treatment, a person may experience an Addisonian crisis marked by symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, and vomiting. This acute adrenal crisis is a life threatening situation and could lead to seizures, coma, or death if not treated promptly.
Addison disease requires ongoing monitoring and treatment. That said, most people live relatively average lives and don’t have restrictions on what activities they can enjoy.
People who have Addison disease are also at an
Can Addison disease run in families?
To “run in families,” a disease must be in genes that are passed during conception. Researchers believe that, in rare circumstances, Addison disease may run in families through inherited autoimmune or genetic disorders.
What triggers Addison disease?
Autoimmune diseases trigger Addison disease in
Is Addison disease caused by stress?
Addison disease isn’t caused by stress. Some people believe stress may cause something called “adrenal fatigue.” This isn’t a true diagnosis of any existing condition.
While rare, you may be at a higher risk of developing Addison disease if other people in your family have this condition.
Make an appointment with a doctor if you experience symptoms that concern you, such as fatigue, discolored patches on your skin, or gastrointestinal symptoms. A doctor can run the necessary tests to accurately diagnose your condition and create a treatment plan to improve your quality of life.