ADDISONIAN CRISIS Meaning and
Definition
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Addisonian crisis refers to a severe medical condition characterized by a sharp decline in adrenal gland function, resulting in a life-threatening situation. It is named after Thomas Addison, the British physician who first described this condition. The adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, produce essential hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, which are crucial for maintaining bodily functions.
During an Addisonian crisis, the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient amounts of these hormones. This sudden and severe deficiency can be triggered by various factors, including infection, physical trauma, or the sudden cessation of long-term corticosteroid therapy. It can also arise due to primary adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison’s disease, an autoimmune disorder where the body mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands.
The symptoms of an Addisonian crisis can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. They may include severe fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, dehydration, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. If left untreated, the condition can rapidly progress, leading to seizures, coma, or even death.
Immediate treatment of an Addisonian crisis involves the administration of intravenous corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, to replenish the body's deficient hormones. Fluids containing glucose and salt are also provided to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring and further medical intervention may be necessary to manage potential complications and stabilize the patient's overall condition.
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Etymology of ADDISONIAN CRISIS
The term "Addisonian crisis" is derived from the name of Thomas Addison, a 19th-century British physician who first described the condition. Thomas Addison is known for his significant contributions to the understanding and diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency. He was the first to recognize and describe the symptoms of what is now known as Addison's disease or primary adrenal insufficiency, a chronic condition resulting from the progressive destruction of the adrenal glands. An "Addisonian crisis" refers to a life-threatening episode of acute adrenal insufficiency, characterized by a sudden and severe drop in cortisol levels, often triggered by stress, trauma, or infection.
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