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Fischli S, von Wyl V, Wuillemin W, von Känel R, Schütz P, Christ-Crain M, Studer F, Brander L, Schüpfer G, Metzger J, Henzen C. Impact of Adrenal Function on Hemostasis/Endothelial Function in Patients Undergoing Surgery. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab047. [PMID: 33928206 PMCID: PMC8057135 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Glucocorticoids regulate hemostatic and endothelial function, and they are critical for adaptive functions during surgery. No data regarding the impact of adrenal function on hemostasis and endothelial function in the perioperative setting are available. Objective We assessed the association of adrenal response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and markers of endothelial/hemostatic function in surgical patients. Methods This prospective observational study, conducted at a tertiary care hospital, included 60 patients (35 male/25 female) undergoing abdominal surgery. Adrenal function was evaluated by low-dose ACTH stimulation test on the day before, during, and the day after surgery. According to their stimulated cortisol level (cutoff ≥ 500 nmol/L), patients were classified as having normal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis function (nHPA) or deficient HPA-axis function (dHPA). Parameters of endothelial function (soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, thrombomodulin) and hemostasis (fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor antigen, factor VIII [FVIII]) were measured during surgery. Results Twenty-one patients had dHPA and 39 had nHPA. Compared with nHPA, patients with dHPA had significantly lower peak cortisol before (median 568 vs 425 nmol/L, P < 0.001) and during (693 vs 544 nmol/L, P < 0.001) surgery and lower postoperative hemoglobin levels (116 g/L vs 105 g/L, P = 0.049). FVIII was significantly reduced in patients with dHPA in uni- and multivariable analyses; other factors displayed no significant differences. Coagulation factors/endothelial markers changed progressively in relation to stimulated cortisol levels and showed a turning point at cortisol levels between 500 and 600 nmol/L. Conclusions Patients with dHPA undergoing abdominal surgery demonstrate impaired hemostasis which can translate into excessive blood loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Fischli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Viktor von Wyl
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter Wuillemin
- Division of Hematology, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Schütz
- Division of General Internal and Emergency Medicine, University Department of Medicine, Kantonsspital Aarau, 5001 Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Christ-Crain
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Studer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Lukas Brander
- Department of Internal Medicine, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Guido Schüpfer
- Division of Anesthesiology, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern,Switzerland
| | - Jürg Metzger
- Division of Visceral Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Henzen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland.,Department of Internal Medicine, Luzerner Kantonsspital, 6000 Luzern, Switzerland
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Ochi K, Abe I, Yamazaki Y, Nagata M, Senda Y, Takeshita K, Koga M, Yamao Y, Shigeoka T, Kudo T, Fukuhara Y, Miyajima S, Taira H, Haraoka S, Ishii T, Takashi Y, Lam AK, Sasano H, Kobayashi K. Adrenal Hemorrhage in a Cortisol-Secreting Adenoma Caused by Antiphospholipid Syndrome Revealed by Clinical and Pathological Investigations: A Case Report. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:769450. [PMID: 35185780 PMCID: PMC8850263 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.769450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to its rarity, adrenal hemorrhage is difficult to diagnose, and its precise etiology has remained unknown. One of the pivotal mechanisms of adrenal hemorrhage is the thrombosis of the adrenal vein, which could be due to thrombophilia. However, detailed pathological evaluation of resected adrenal glands is usually required for definitive diagnosis. Here, we report a case of a cortisol-secreting adenoma with concomitant foci of hemorrhage due to antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosed both clinically and pathologically. In addition, the tumor in this case was pathologically diagnosed as cortisol-secreting adenoma, although the patient did not necessarily fulfill the clinical diagnostic criteria of full-blown Cushing or sub-clinical Cushing syndrome during the clinical course, which also did highlight the importance of detailed histopathological investigations of resected adrenocortical lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Ochi
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Ichiro Abe
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: Ichiro Abe, ; orcid.org/0000-0002-7545-9751
| | - Yuto Yamazaki
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Mai Nagata
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Yuki Senda
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Kaori Takeshita
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Midori Koga
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Yuka Yamao
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Toru Shigeoka
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Tadachika Kudo
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Fukuhara
- Department of Urology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Shigero Miyajima
- Department of Urology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Taira
- Department of Urology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Shoji Haraoka
- Department of Pathology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Tatsu Ishii
- Department of Urology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Yuichi Takashi
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
| | - Alfred K. Lam
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Hironobu Sasano
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kunihisa Kobayashi
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Chikushino, Japan
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3
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Frankel M, Feldman I, Levine M, Frank Y, Bogot NR, Benjaminov O, Kurd R, Breuer GS, Munter G. Bilateral Adrenal Hemorrhage in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patient: A Case Report. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5879684. [PMID: 32738040 PMCID: PMC7454653 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage is a rare condition with potentially life-threatening consequences such as acute adrenal insufficiency. Early adrenal axis testing, as well as directed imaging, is crucial for immediate diagnosis and treatment. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with coagulopathy and thromboembolic events. CASE DESCRIPTION A 66-year-old woman presented with acute COVID-19 infection and primary adrenal insufficiency due to bilateral adrenal hemorrhage (BAH). She also had a renal vein thrombosis. Her past medical history revealed primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS). Four weeks after discharge she had no signs of COVID-19 infection and her polymerase chain reaction test for COVID-19 was negative, but she still needed glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. The combination of APLS and COVID-19 was probably responsible of the adrenal event as a "two-hit" mechanism. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 infection is associated with coagulopathy and thromboembolic events, including BAH. Adrenal insufficiency is life threatening; therefore, we suggest that early adrenal axis testing for COVID-19 patients with clinical suspicion of adrenal insufficiency should be carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Frankel
- Endocrinology Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Feldman
- Rheumatology Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michal Levine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yigal Frank
- Department of Radiology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Naama R Bogot
- Department of Radiology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hadassah Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ofer Benjaminov
- Department of Radiology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hadassah Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ramzi Kurd
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gabriel S Breuer
- Rheumatology Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hadassah Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gabriel Munter
- Endocrinology Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hadassah Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
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Fujiwara Y, Ito K, Takamura A, Nagata K. The first case of thrombocytopenia, anasarca, fever, renal impairment or reticulin fibrosis, and organomegaly (TAFRO) syndrome with unilateral adrenal necrosis: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2018; 12:295. [PMID: 30293532 PMCID: PMC6174561 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-018-1814-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TAFRO syndrome, which was first reported in 2010 in Japan, is a relatively rare disease characterized by thrombocytopenia, anasarca, fever, renal impairment, reticulin fibrosis, and organomegaly. Although this disease is considered similar to multicentric Castleman disease, some of the clinical features, such as thrombocytopenia, are different from typical cases of multicentric Castleman disease. In addition, the etiology of TAFRO syndrome remains unknown and controversial. There have only been a few cases of TAFRO syndrome complicated with adrenal gland lesions, and all of them have had hemorrhagic involvement. CASE PRESENTATION This report describes the case of a 46-year-old Asian man who presented with fever, epigastric pain, and back pain for 1 month. A computed tomographic scan revealed ascites, mild lymphadenopathy, and left adrenal necrosis without hemorrhage. A blood test showed thrombocytopenia, anemia, and elevated C-reactive protein, alkaline phosphatase, and creatinine levels. Based on the edema, severe thrombocytopenia, fever, reticulin myelofibrosis shown by bone marrow biopsy, mild lymphadenopathy, and progressive renal insufficiency, we diagnosed this patient as having TAFRO syndrome. He was successfully treated by immediate administration of glucocorticoids and tocilizumab. CONCLUSIONS There have been no previous reports of a case of TAFRO syndrome complicated with adrenal necrosis. Because the biopsy of the left adrenal gland revealed necrosis without any evidence of hemorrhage, we concluded that the unilateral adrenal necrosis in this case was caused by either ischemia from infarction or organomegaly itself under severe hypercytokinemia. This unusual clinical course is useful for further analysis of the etiology of TAFRO syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fujiwara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, 1-26-1, Kyonancho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo, 1808610 Japan
| | - Kanae Ito
- Department of Rheumatology and Collagen Disease, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akito Takamura
- Department of Rheumatology and Collagen Disease, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Nagata
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Primary Adrenal Failure due to Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Case Rep Endocrinol 2015; 2015:161497. [PMID: 26583075 PMCID: PMC4637077 DOI: 10.1155/2015/161497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 10/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) characterized by thrombosis and abortus may rarely cause primary adrenal failure. Case Presentations. A 34-year-old male presented with hypotension, hypoglycemia, hyperpigmentation on his skin and oral mucosa, scars on both legs, and loss of consciousness. In laboratory examinations, hyponatremia (135 mmol/L), hyperpotassemia (6 mmol/L), and thrombocytopenia (83 K/µL) were determined. Cortisol (1.91 µg/dL) and adrenocorticotropic (550 pg/mL) hormone levels were also evaluated. The patient was hospitalized with a diagnosis of acute adrenal crisis due to primary adrenal insufficiency. A Doppler ultrasound revealed venous thrombosis. The patient was diagnosed with antiphospholipid syndrome after the detection of venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, elevated aPTT, and anticardiolipin antibody levels. Anticoagulation treatment was started for antiphospholipid syndrome. The patient is now following up with hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone, and warfarin sodium. Conclusion. Antiphospholipid syndrome is a rare reason for adrenal failure. Antiphospholipid syndrome should be suspected if patients have morbidity secondary to venous-arterial thrombosis.
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6
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Isidori AM, Minnetti M, Sbardella E, Graziadio C, Grossman AB. Mechanisms in endocrinology: The spectrum of haemostatic abnormalities in glucocorticoid excess and defect. Eur J Endocrinol 2015; 173:R101-13. [PMID: 25987566 DOI: 10.1530/eje-15-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) target several components of the integrated system that preserves vascular integrity and free blood flow. Cohort studies on Cushing's syndrome (CS) have revealed increased thromboembolism, but the pathogenesis remains unclear. Lessons from epidemiological data and post-treatment normalisation time suggest a bimodal action with a rapid and reversible effect on coagulation factors and an indirect sustained effect on the vessel wall. The redundancy of the steps that are potentially involved requires a systematic comparison of data from patients with endogenous or exogenous hypercortisolism in the context of either inflammatory or non-inflammatory disorders. A predominant alteration in the intrinsic pathway that includes a remarkable rise in factor VIII and von Willebrand factor (vWF) levels and a reduction in activated partial thromboplastin time appears in the majority of studies on endogenous CS. There may also be a rise in platelets, thromboxane B2, thrombin-antithrombin complexes and fibrinogen (FBG) levels and, above all, impaired fibrinolytic capacity. The increased activation of coagulation inhibitors seems to be compensatory in order to counteract disseminated coagulation, but there remains a net change towards an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Conversely, GC administered in the presence of inflammation lowers vWF and FBG, but fibrinolytic activity is also reduced. As a result, the overall risk of VTE is increased in long-term users. Finally, no studies have assessed haemostatic abnormalities in patients with Addison's disease, although these may present as a consequence of bilateral adrenal haemorrhage, especially in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies or anticoagulant treatments. The present review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the complex alterations produced by GCs in order to develop better screening and prevention strategies against bleeding and thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Emilia Sbardella
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Chiara Graziadio
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, Rome 00161, ItalyOxford Centre for DiabetesEndocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
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Ross IL, Levitt NS. Diagnosis and management of Addison's disease: insights gained from a large South African cohort. JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGY METABOLISM AND DIABETES OF SOUTH AFRICA 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/22201009.2011.10872256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- IL Ross
- Division of Endocrinology, University of Cape Town
| | - NS Levitt
- Division of Endocrinology, University of Cape Town
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8
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Behera KK, Kapoor N, Seshadri MS, Rajaratnam S. Acute adrenal insufficiency due to primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2013; 17:S240-S242. [PMID: 24251172 PMCID: PMC3830318 DOI: 10.4103/2230-8210.119584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We report a case of acute adrenal insufficiency (AAI) in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). CASE REPORT A 44-year-old female patient presented to us with acute abdominal pain associated with recurrent vomiting and giddiness. On examination, her blood pressure was 80/50 mm Hg. Systemic examination was normal. Further evaluation revealed hypocortisolemia with elevated plasma adrenocorticotropin hormone indicative of primary adrenal insufficiency. Her abdominal computed tomography scan showed features of evolving bilateral adrenal infarction. Etiological work-up revealed prolonged activated thromboplastin time, which didn't correct with normal plasma, her anti-cardiolipin antibody and lupus anticoagulant were also positive. She was diagnosed to have APS with adrenal insufficiency and she was started on intravenous steroids and heparin infusion. CONCLUSION AAI due to the APS can present with acute abdominal pain followed by hypotension. A high index of suspicion is needed to make the correct diagnosis and to initiate appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishore Kumar Behera
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nitin Kapoor
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M. S. Seshadri
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Simon Rajaratnam
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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9
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Abstract
Addison's disease or primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is a rare manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). PAI is the most common among the endocrinologic manifestations and can also rarely be the presenting symptom of APS. Venous thrombosis and/or adrenal hemorrhage are the leading cause of PAI in APS. Autoimmune adrenal failure is postulated to be another possible mechanism. We report a case of PAI in a 44-year-old lady preceding primary APS, probably autoimmune, without any evidence of adrenal hemorrhage or infarction. High index of clinical suspicion for PAI in APS is needed; conversely APS should be considered as a possible pathogenetic process in patients presenting with Addison's disease where the etiology is not obvious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debmalya Sanyal
- Department of Endocrinology, KPC Medical College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Moutusi Raychaudhuri
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Child Health, RTIICS, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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10
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Abstract
A 25-year-old pregnant woman at 28 weeks gestational age presented with increasing abdominal pain and was found to have a unilateral adrenal infarction on a CT scan of the abdomen. Her medical history was unremarkable. There was no evidence of adrenal insufficiency with normal cortisol and adenocorticotropic hormone levels for pregnancy. Evaluation of thrombophilia disorders established the patient to be heterozygous for methylenetetrahydrofolatereductase C677T gene mutation as the only finding. The patient was anticoagulated to prevent contralateral thrombosis. At 32 weeks she experienced spontaneous rupture of membranes. One week later she delivered vaginally and remained anticoagulated for the puerperium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul-Ann D Green
- Department of OB-GYN and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ivan M Ngai
- Department of OB-GYN and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Tony T Lee
- Department of Radiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - David J Garry
- Department of OB-GYN and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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11
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Incidental lipid poor adrenal mass in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome. Case Rep Endocrinol 2013; 2013:379852. [PMID: 23509640 PMCID: PMC3590495 DOI: 10.1155/2013/379852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenal incidentalomas are commonly encountered in this era of ubiquitous imaging. The attenuation of the incidentaloma measured in Hounsfield units (HU) is an important step in the work up. Attenuation less than 10 HU indicates a benign lesion in more than 98% of cases, whereas attenuation greater than 30 HU is highly suspicious for adrenocortical cancer (ACC). Adrenal hematoma is rarely suspected clinically and exhibits no specific clinical symptoms or laboratory findings. There are multiple radiological features of adrenal hemorrhage and can mimic ACC. We present a case of an adrenal mass in a patient with antiphospholipid syndrome and discuss radiological clues to differentiate adrenal hematomas from ACC and thus avoid unnecessary surgical intervention.
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12
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Bhakhri BK, Katewa S, Sharma R, Mahajan S. Primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome presenting with adrenal insufficiency in a child: Case report and review of literature. Lupus 2011; 20:1203-8. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203310397965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A 7-year-old boy presented with adrenal insufficiency. He subsequently developed venous thrombosis in the limbs and was diagnosed with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) based on clinical and laboratory parameters. Both adrenals were normal on imaging. He required thrombolysis and anticoagulation. The progressive course of PAPS was controlled with methylprednisolone. There are few reports of PAPS in pediatric patients, and associated adrenal involvement is rare. The unusual presentation, course and management of the patient and of four other reported children with adrenal insufficiency heralding manifestation of PAPS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- BK Bhakhri
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - S Katewa
- Dr B L Kapoor Memorial Hospital, Pusa Road, New Delhi, India
| | - R Sharma
- Dr B L Kapoor Memorial Hospital, Pusa Road, New Delhi, India
| | - S Mahajan
- Dr B L Kapoor Memorial Hospital, Pusa Road, New Delhi, India
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13
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Squizzato A, Gerdes VEA, Ageno W, Büller HR. The coagulation system in endocrine disorders: a narrative review. Intern Emerg Med 2007; 2:76-83. [PMID: 17657422 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-007-0026-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2006] [Accepted: 07/25/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disorders can influence the haemostatic balance. Abnormal coagulation test results have been observed in patients with abnormal hormone levels. Also unprovoked bleeding or thrombotic events have been associated with endocrine disease. The aim of the present review is to summarise the available evidence on the influence of common endocrine disorders on the coagulation system, and their possible clinical implications. We focus on thyroid dysfunction, hyper- and hypocortisolism and growth hormone disturbances, while other endocrine disorders are only briefly discussed. In the published literature a clear bleeding diathesis has only been associated with overt hypothyroidism, mainly mediated by an acquired von Willebrand syndrome. A clinically relevant hypercoagulable state may be present in patients with hyperthyroidism, hypercortisolism or abnormal growth hormone levels, but adequate prospective clinical studies are lacking. Also effects of pheochromocytoma, hyperprolactinaemia and hyperaldosteronism on the coagulation system have been described. It is apparent that unprovoked bleeding and thrombotic episodes can be secondary to endocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Squizzato
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
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14
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Presotto F, Fornasini F, Betterle C, Federspil G, Rossato M. Acute adrenal failure as the heralding symptom of primary antiphospholipid syndrome: report of a case and review of the literature. Eur J Endocrinol 2005; 153:507-14. [PMID: 16189171 DOI: 10.1530/eje.1.02002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Acute adrenal failure is a potentially fatal condition if overlooked. Occasionally, acute adrenal insufficiency may ensue from bilateral adrenal haemorrhage in patients with known antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). APS is characterized by recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis, pregnancy complications and detection of autoantibodies to phospholipids. This syndrome may be associated with non-organ specific diseases (e.g. connective tissue disorders) or with malignancies, but it may also appear in isolated form (primary APS). In a very few cases the heralding manifestation is given by adrenal failure. We report here a 63-year-old man presenting with acute adrenal insufficiency as the opening clinical manifestation of an APS. We also carried out a computer-aided search of the literature to identify all cases of primary adrenal failure as the first-recognized expression of a primary APS, a condition that not so infrequently may be tackled by endocrinologists. 20 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The great majority of them were males (75%) with a mean age of 42 years. Abdominal pain was present in 14 patients, followed by fever (13 patients) and hypotension (12 patients). The main morphological findings by computed tomography or magnetic resonance were consistent with bilateral adrenal haemorrhage in 11 patients. Lupus anticoagulant was present in all of the 19 tested patients. Our observations emphasize the importance in the assessment of clotting times, and possibly of antiphospholipid antibodies, in all patients with diagnosis of rapidly progressive adrenal failure and concurrent abdominal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Presotto
- Third Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua School of Medicine, I-35128, Padua, Italy.
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Abstract
Although clinical conditions associated with dysfunction of the ad-renal gland are often subtle, even insidious, in their presentation,and diagnosis and treatment usually are confined to outpatient clinics and offices, there are several situations that warrant the attention of emergency physicians. Recognition of the spectrum of presentations of pheochromocytoma, adrenal insufficiency, and pituitary apoplexy, and the sequelae of corticosteroid therapy and withdrawal, are critically important areas to emergency medicine. Prompt diagnosis with appropriate treatment and referral will reduce morbidity and mortality in many patients each year. A related topic pertinent to emergency physicians is the management of incidental adrenal masses that are discovered on abdominal radio-logic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan P Torrey
- Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue Boston, MA 02111, USA.
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Riddell AM, Khalili K. Sequential Adrenal Infarction Without MRI-Detectable Hemorrhage in Primary Antiphospholipid-Antibody Syndrome. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2004; 183:220-2. [PMID: 15208142 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.183.1.1830220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A M Riddell
- Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth St., Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
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Beltran S, Makdassi R, Robert F, Remond A, Fournier A. [Inaugural unilateral adrenal hematoma of an antiphospholipid syndrome]. Presse Med 2004; 33:385-8. [PMID: 15105780 DOI: 10.1016/s0755-4982(04)98601-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A primary antiphospholipid syndrome is a very rare cause of adrenal haemorrhage. OBSERVATION A 51 year-old man presented with a unilateral adrenal haemorrhage, enhanced by the prescription of Synacthène during the 4 days that preceded. There was no adrenal deficiency but the immunological control revealed the presence of anti-phospholipid antibodies. After 2 years of follow-up, adrenal controls have not shown any underlying tumour or endocrine insufficiency. COMMENTS Adrenal involvement is described in the anti-phospholipid syndrome and may present in the form of adrenal deficiency in the case of occasionally only microscopic bilateral haemorrhages. Furthermore, Synacthène is known to induce adrenal haemorrhages although this complication remains rare. Moreover, any unilateral adrenal haemorrhage requires subsequent follow-up for several months or even years in order to eliminate any underlying tumour and to control the absence of any adrenal deficiency if the involvement is bilateral.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Beltran
- Service de néphrologie, Hôpital Sud, Amiens
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Berneis K, Buitrago-Téllez C, Müller B, Keller U, Tsakiris DA. Antiphospholipid syndrome and endocrine damage: why bilateral adrenal thrombosis? Eur J Haematol 2003; 71:299-302. [PMID: 12950241 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0609.2003.00145.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We describe a rare case of bilateral hemorrhagic infarction of the adrenal glands diagnosed in the context of positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). The patient presented atypical clinical symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. Laboratory investigation showed complete adrenal failure and increased aPL, both manifestations persisted 1 yr after the initial event. MR imaging at baseline was compatible with bilateral hemorrhagic infarction and showed almost complete loss of viable adrenal tissue 1 yr later. Although no direct causal effect can be proved, the sequence of events and the exclusion of other common causes of bilateral adrenal hemorrhage (e.g. tuberculosis, severe coagulation disorder) support an association between aPL and adrenal hemorrhagic infarction. A unique link between particular anatomical characteristics of the adrenal fascicular zone and a novel, previously described, explanation model of aPL-thrombosis is hypothesized. It is based on the properties of late endosomes, which are important organelles participating in cholesterol trafficking and protein sorting within cells and express epitopes recognized by aPL. It would be interesting to investigate adrenal tissue for presence of late endosomes and their aPL relevant epitopes for proof of this tempting hypothesis. Focal accumulation of aPL and isolated, simultaneous, bilateral adrenal infarctions could thus be explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaspar Berneis
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital Bruderholz, Basel, Switzerland
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20
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Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency is caused by either primary adrenal failure (mostly due to autoimmune adrenalitis) or by hypothalamic-pituitary impairment of the corticotropic axis (predominantly due to pituitary disease). It is a rare disease, but is life threatening when overlooked. Main presenting symptoms such as fatigue, anorexia, and weight loss are non-specific, thus diagnosis is often delayed. The diagnostic work-up is well established but some pitfalls remain, particularly in the identification of secondary adrenal insufficiency. Despite optimised life-saving glucocorticoid-replacement and mineralocorticoid-replacement therapy, health-related quality of life in adrenal insufficiency is more severely impaired than previously thought. Dehydroepiandrosterone-replacement therapy has been introduced that could help to restore quality of life. Monitoring of glucocorticoid-replacement quality is hampered by lack of objective methods of assessment, and is therefore largely based on clinical grounds. Thus, long-term management of patients with adrenal insufficiency remains a challenge, requiring an experienced specialist. However, all doctors should know how to diagnose and manage suspected acute adrenal failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Arlt
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Espinosa G, Santos E, Cervera R, Piette JC, de la Red G, Gil V, Font J, Couch R, Ingelmo M, Asherson RA. Adrenal involvement in the antiphospholipid syndrome: clinical and immunologic characteristics of 86 patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2003; 82:106-18. [PMID: 12640187 DOI: 10.1097/00005792-200303000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To describe the clinical and immunologic characteristics of patients with adrenal involvement and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), we conducted a computer-assisted (PubMed) search of the literature to identify all cases of primary adrenal insufficiency associated with antiphospholipid antibodies published in English, French, and Spanish from 1983 (when APS was first defined) through March 2002. We reviewed 86 patients (80 from the literature plus 6 from our cohort); 55% were male, and the mean age at presentation was 43 +/- 16 years. Sixty-one (71%) patients had primary APS, and 14 (16%) had systemic lupus erythematosus. In 31 (36%) patients, adrenal insufficiency was the first clinical manifestation of APS. Abdominal pain was present in 55% of patients, followed by hypotension (54%), fever (40%), nausea or vomiting (31%), weakness or fatigue (31%), and lethargy or altered mental status (19%). The main finding in imaging techniques was compatible with adrenal hemorrhage (59%) and in histopathologic study was a hemorrhagic infarction with vessel thrombosis (55%). Lupus anticoagulant was detected in 97% of patients and the anticardiolipin antibodies titer was positive in 93% of patients. Most patients (95%) were positive for the IgG isotype of anticardiolipin antibodies, whereas 40% were positive for the IgM isotype. Baseline cortisol levels were decreased in 98% of patients, ACTH hormone levels were increased in 96% of patients, and the cosyntropin stimulation test was positive in 100% of patients tested. Steroid replacement therapy was the most frequent treatment (84%), followed by anticoagulation (52%) and aspirin (6%). Thirty-two of 35 (91%) patients with prolonged anticoagulant therapy were in good health with a mean follow-up of 25 months, whereas 25 of the 69 (36%) patients with outcome data available had died. The results of the present review stress the clinical importance of systematic screening for lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies in all cases of adrenal hemorrhage or infarction. An initial screening for hypoadrenalism is mandatory in any antiphospholipid antibody-positive patient who complains of abdominal pain and undue weakness or asthenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Espinosa
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Institut Clínic d'Infeccions i Immunologia, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Takebayashi K, Aso Y, Tayama K, Takemura Y, Inukai T. Primary antiphospholipid syndrome associated with acute adrenal failure. Am J Med Sci 2003; 325:41-4. [PMID: 12544085 DOI: 10.1097/00000441-200301000-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We describe a 48-year-old woman with primary antiphospholipid syndrome who developed acute adrenal failure after an operation for a uterine myoma. After surgery, she developed a preshock state with hypotension, hypoglycemia, and hyponatremia. A diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome was made based not only on her past history of skin ulceration and recurrent spontaneous abortions but also on the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies. An abdominal computed tomography showed a bilateral enlargement of the adrenal glands but no high-density region in either gland. The patient recovered from the shock-like syndromes after the administration of glucocorticoids. Because it is possible that patients with antiphospholipid syndrome have acute or chronic adrenal failure caused by repeated hemorrhage or thrombosis, it may be important to monitor adrenal function in patients when the presence of this antibody is detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Takebayashi
- Department of Medicine, Koshigaya Hospital, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Koshigaya, Japan.
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Böber E, Kovanlikaya A, Büyükgebiz A. Primary antiphospholipid syndrome: an unusual cause of adrenal insufficiency. Horm Res Paediatr 2002; 56:140-4. [PMID: 11847478 DOI: 10.1159/000048107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a boy, 10 years and 5 months old, who developed acute adrenal gland insufficiency which was confirmed by hormonal investigation. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging showed unilateral enlargement of the right adrenal gland, whereas the other gland seemed normal - no cause was apparent. Three months later the patient presented with thrombosis in the right femoral vein and in the veins of the right leg. Autoantibodies against cardiolipin were strongly positive, while antinuclear antibodies and antibodies against double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid were absent. There was no evidence of antiphospholipid syndrome associated with drugs, connective tissue disorders, or malignancies, strongly suggesting the diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome. The development of adrenal insufficiency has been reported in primary antiphospholipid syndrome due to adrenal hemorrhage following vascular occlusion of adrenal vessels or secondary to anticoagulant therapy. It was interesting to note that in our patient adrenal gland insufficiency preceded other clinical evidence of the syndrome by 3 months. The primary antiphospholipid syndrome should be considered a possible cause of Addison's disease when the etiology is not obvious.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Böber
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Adolescence, Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
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