title: Rifampicin-induced adrenal insufficiency in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: difficulties in diagnosis and treatment.
abstract: Rifampicin, an antituberculous drug, causes increased hepatic metabolism of steroid hormones. We report the case of a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome treated with rifampicin who had a 'normal' screening test for adrenal insufficiency, yet had clinical evidence of adrenal failure. Diagnostic testing could not be completed due to lack of clinical response to dexamethasone. Both of these findings are due to the unique effects of rifampicin on steroid metabolism.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine 64108.
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Ediger
authors.forename: W L
authors.initials: WL
authors.lastname: Isley
mesh_terms: D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000302:Adrenal Cortex / Q000187:drug effects; D000304:Adrenal Cortex Function Tests; D000309:Adrenal Insufficiency / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000187:drug effects; D008297:Male; D012293:Rifampin / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D012293:Rifampin