Addison's Disease
Alternate Names : Primary Adrenocortical Insufficiency, Primary Adrenal Failure, Hypocortisolism
How is the disease diagnosed?
In its early stages, Addison disease can be hard to diagnose.
Diagnosis of Addison disease begins with a medical history
and physical exam. Dark tanning of the skin is will often lead the doctor
to suspect Addison disease. Blood tests, such as the
ACTH stimulation test,
can confirm the low cortisol level and its effects on the body. X-ray exams
of the adrenal and pituitary glands may be helpful in identifying the cause
of the disease.
|
Previous section
