title: A new view on hypocortisolism.
abstract: Low cortisol levels have been observed in patients with different stress-related disorders such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Data suggest that these disorders are characterized by a symptom triad of enhanced stress sensitivity, pain, and fatigue. This overview will present data on the development, mechanisms and consequences of hypocortisolism on different bodily systems. We propose that the phenomenon of hypocortisolism may occur after a prolonged period of hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis due to chronic stress as illustrated in an animal model. Further evidence suggests that despite symptoms such as pain, fatigue and high stress sensitivity, hypocortisolism may also have beneficial effects on the organism. This assumption will be underlined by some studies suggesting protective effects of hypocortisolism for the individual.
authors.affiliation: Department for Psychobiology, University of Trier, Johanniterufer 15, 54290 Trier, Germany.
authors.forename: Eva
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Fries
authors.forename: Judith
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hesse
authors.forename: Juliane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hellhammer
authors.forename: Dirk H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Hellhammer
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000172:deficiency*; D007107:Immune System / Q000503:physiopathology; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000503:physiopathology; D013564:Sympathetic Nervous System / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D006854:Hydrocortisone