Addison disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a condition caused by the failure of the adrenal glands to produce hormones essential for regulating many functions in the body. The most likely cause of Addison disease is an autoimmune disorder, which is when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. In the case of Addison disease, the immune system attacks the adrenal glands, leading to a decrease in the production of cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Sometimes the cause of Addison disease is a genetic disorder or a virus that has damaged the adrenal glands. Other causes of Addison disease can include cancer, tuberculosis, and certain medications. In rare cases, Addison disease can be caused by a pituitary disorder or a rare disorder called congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
The most common cause of Addison disease is an autoimmune disorder. This type of disorder typically occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies the adrenal glands as foreign substances and attacks them, leading to a decrease in the production of cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Treatment for Addison disease usually involves taking cortisol and aldosterone replacement hormones, as well as taking medications to reduce the body's immune response to the adrenal glands. If the cause of Addison disease is a pituitary disorder or a rare disorder called congenital adrenal hyperplasia, treatment may involve surgery, medication, or hormone replacement therapy.