Addison's disease, diffuse skin, and mucosal hyperpigmenation with subtle "flu-like" symptoms--a report of two cases.
Addison's disease, or chronic adrenocortical insufficiency, is the overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone by the pituitary gland as a compensatory mechanism for decreased cortisol production by the adrenal glands. Classically, patients affected with Addison's disease develop weakness, anorexia, electrolyte imbalances: decreased sodium and chloride with increased serum potassium resulting in hypotension, and hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes. Herein this case report, we focus on the subtle findings of diffuse hyperpigmentation and intermittent but repetitive "flu-like" symptoms in two patients to correctly identify the diagnosis of Addison's disease effectively and efficiently.
Burk
Cynthia J
CJ
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Division of Pediatric Dermatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA. cynthiajburk@yahoo.com
Ciocca
Giovanna
G
Heath
Candrice R
CR
Duarte
Anna
A
Dohil
Magdalene
M
Connelly
Elizabeth Alvarez
EA
D000224:Addison Disease / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D000293:Adolescent; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D005438:Fludrocortisone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood
D003907:Dexamethasone; D005438:Fludrocortisone; D006854:Hydrocortisone