Editorial: Molecular -genetic causes underlying primary adrenal insufficiency: Current insights into diagnosis and treatment

FRAGOSO, MARIA CANDIDA B.V.; BACHEGA, TÂNIA A. S. S.; DAIN, LILIANA

Frontiers in Endocrinology

Frontiers

Año: 2022 vol. 13

The loss of adrenal cortex function leads to glucocorticoid and/or mineralocorticoid deficiency, ranging from mild nonspecific symptoms to life-threatening shock conditions. Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is classified as primary, secondary or tertiary when the disease results from disorders affecting the adrenal cortex, anterior pituitary or hypothalamus, respectively. In newborns and children, genetic factors are the most frequent causes of AI, with emphasis on congenital adrenal hyperplasia, while acquired etiologies are more frequent in adults.