Ahead of Print

Acute Adrenal Crisis: A Medical Emergency
Insuficiência Suprarrenal Aguda: Uma Emergência Médica

Main Article Content

Beatriz Morais Pinto - Corresponding Author

Beatriz Morais Pinto [beatrizmorais1b2@hotmail.com]
Unidade Local de Saúde Tâmega e Sousa,
Unidade de Saúde Familiar São Martinho, Penafiel, Portugal
Travessa da Rua Marquês de Pombal – 4560-682 Penafiel

Alcino Duarte
Catarina Côrte-Real
Cristiana Reis
Diana Andrade
Maria Manuel Pinho

Abstract

Acute adrenal crisis is a rare but severe condition. Clinical symptoms are diverse and non-specific, therefore, the diagnosis of this condition relies heavily on a high level of clinical suspicion and should be considered, if relevant, regardless of the patient's medical history. Timely treatment is crucial to the survival of patients with this condition. The case of a woman with a history of adrenal insufficiency due to non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency exemplifies the importance of recognizing warning signs that may indicate an acute adrenal crisis.This condition is life-threatening and can be initially assessed in the context of primary healthcare, making it essential for family physicians to be aware of this condition and how to prevent it and recognize it promptly. The failure to adjust chronic corticosteroid therapy in the face of respiratory infection was likely the triggering factor for the acute adrenal crisis.

Keywords: Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital; Adrenal Insufficiency; Emergencies

Article Details

1.
Morais Pinto B, Duarte A, Côrte-Real C, Reis C, Andrade D, Manuel Pinho M. Acute Adrenal Crisis: A Medical Emergency. Gaz Med [Internet]. 2025 Oct. 8 [cited 2025 Oct. 23];1(1). Available from: https://www.gazetamedica.pt/index.php/gazeta/article/view/923
Section
CLINICAL CASE