Acute adrenal crisis

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Adrenal gland hormone secretion

Endocrine glands

Adrenal crisis; Addisonian crisis; Acute adrenal insufficiency

In adrenal crisis, an intravenous or intramuscular injection of hydrocortisone (an injectable corticosteroid) must be given immediately. Supportive treatment of low blood pressure with intravenous fluids is usually necessary. Hospitalization is required for adequate treatment and monitoring. If infection is the cause of the crisis, antibiotic therapy may be needed.

Death may occur due to overwhelming shock if early treatment is not provided.

• shock
• coma
• seizures

Call your health care provider if you have Addison's disease and are unable to retain usual medications because of vomiting.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms of acute adrenal crisis develop.

Review Date: 05/12/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.