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Charoensri S, Auchus RJ. A Contemporary Approach to the Diagnosis and Management of Adrenal Insufficiency. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2024; 39:73-82. [PMID: 38253474 PMCID: PMC10901672 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2024.1894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) can be classified into three distinct categories based on its underlying causes: primary adrenal disorders, secondary deficiencies in adrenocorticotropin, or hypothalamic suppression from external factors, most commonly glucocorticoid medications used for anti-inflammatory therapy. The hallmark clinical features of AI include fatigue, appetite loss, unintentional weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyponatremia. Individuals with primary AI additionally manifest skin hyperpigmentation, hyperkalemia, and salt craving. The diagnosis of AI is frequently delayed due to the non-specific symptoms and signs early in the disease course, which poses a significant challenge to its early detection prior to an adrenal crisis. Despite the widespread availability of lifesaving glucocorticoid medications for decades, notable challenges persist, particularly in the domains of timely diagnosis while simultaneously avoiding misdiagnosis, patient education for averting adrenal crises, and the determination of optimal replacement therapies. This article reviews recent advancements in the contemporary diagnostic strategy and approaches to optimal treatment for AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suranut Charoensri
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Richard J. Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Endocrinology & Metabolism Section, Medicine Service, LTC Charles S. Kettles VA Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Øksnes M, Husebye ES. Approach to the Patient: Diagnosis of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency in Adults. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 109:269-278. [PMID: 37450570 PMCID: PMC10735307 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, N-5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine Haukeland, University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, N-5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine Haukeland, University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway
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Wolff ASB, Kucuka I, Oftedal BE. Autoimmune primary adrenal insufficiency -current diagnostic approaches and future perspectives. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1285901. [PMID: 38027140 PMCID: PMC10667925 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1285901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The adrenal glands are small endocrine glands located on top of each kidney, producing hormones regulating important functions in our body like metabolism and stress. There are several underlying causes for adrenal insufficiency, where an autoimmune attack by the immune system is the most common cause. A number of genes are known to confer early onset adrenal disease in monogenic inheritance patterns, usually genetic encoding enzymes of adrenal steroidogenesis. Autoimmune primary adrenal insufficiency is usually a polygenic disease where our information recently has increased due to genome association studies. In this review, we go through the physiology of the adrenals before explaining the different reasons for adrenal insufficiency with a particular focus on autoimmune primary adrenal insufficiency. We will give a clinical overview including diagnosis and current treatment, before giving an overview of the genetic causes including monogenetic reasons for adrenal insufficiency and the polygenic background and inheritance pattern in autoimmune adrenal insufficiency. We will then look at the autoimmune mechanisms underlying autoimmune adrenal insufficiency and how autoantibodies are important for diagnosis. We end with a discussion on how to move the field forward emphasizing on the clinical workup, early identification, and potential targeted treatment of autoimmune PAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette S. B. Wolff
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Isil Kucuka
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bergithe E. Oftedal
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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4
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Sævik ÅB, Ueland G, Åkerman AK, Methlie P, Quinkler M, Jørgensen AP, Höybye C, Debowska AWJ, Nedrebø BG, Dahle AL, Carlsen S, Tomkowicz A, Sollid ST, Nermoen I, Grønning K, Dahlqvist P, Grimnes G, Skov J, Finnes T, Valland SF, Wahlberg J, Holte SE, Kämpe O, Bensing S, Husebye ES, Øksnes M. Altered biomarkers for cardiovascular disease and inflammation in autoimmune Addison's disease - a cross-sectional study. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 189:438-447. [PMID: 37807083 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease has been reported in autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD), but pathomechanisms are poorly understood. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS We compared serum levels of 177 cardiovascular and inflammatory biomarkers in 43 patients with AAD at >18-h glucocorticoid withdrawal and 43 matched controls, overall and stratified for sex. Biomarker levels were correlated with the frequency of adrenal crises and quality of life (QoL) by AddiQoL-30. Finally, we investigated changes in biomarker levels following 250 µg tetracosactide injection in patients without residual adrenocortical function (RAF) to explore glucocorticoid-independent effects of high ACTH. RESULTS Nineteen biomarkers significantly differed between patients with AAD and controls; all but 1 (ST1A1) were higher in AAD. Eight biomarkers were significantly higher in female patients compared with controls (IL6, MCP1, GAL9, SPON2, DR4, RAGE, TNFRSF9, and PGF), but none differed between male patients and controls. Levels of RAGE correlated with the frequency of adrenal crises (r = 0.415, P = .006) and AddiQoL-30 scores (r = -0.347, P = .028) but not after correction for multiple testing. PDL2 and leptin significantly declined 60 min after injection of ACTH in AAD without RAF (-0.15 normalized protein expression [NPX], P = .0001, and -0.25 NPX, P = .0003, respectively). CONCLUSIONS We show that cardiovascular and inflammatory biomarkers are altered in AAD compared with controls, particularly in women. RAGE might be a marker of disease severity in AAD, associated with more adrenal crises and reduced QoL. High ACTH reduced PDL2 and leptin levels in a glucocorticoid-independent manner but the overall effect on biomarker profiles was small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Grethe Ueland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Anna-Karin Åkerman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro 702 17, Sweden
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Marcus Quinkler
- Practice for Endocrinology and Nephrology, Endocrinology in Charlottenburg, Berlin 10627, Germany
| | | | - Charlotte Höybye
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | | | | | - Anne Lise Dahle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, Haugesund 5528, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger 4019, Norway
| | - Aneta Tomkowicz
- Department of Medicine, Sørlandet Hospital, Kristiansand 4604, Norway
| | - Stina Therese Sollid
- Department of Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Health Trust, Drammen 3004, Norway
| | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Kaja Grønning
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå 907 37, Sweden
| | - Guri Grimnes
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø 9019, Norway
- Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø 9019, Norway
| | - Jakob Skov
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Trine Finnes
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar 2318, Norway
| | - Susanna F Valland
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar 2318, Norway
| | - Jeanette Wahlberg
- Department of Endocrinology, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
| | | | - Olle Kämpe
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Eystein Sverre Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
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5
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Upton TJ, Zavala E, Methlie P, Kämpe O, Tsagarakis S, Øksnes M, Bensing S, Vassiliadi DA, Grytaas MA, Botusan IR, Ueland G, Berinder K, Simunkova K, Balomenaki M, Margaritopoulos D, Henne N, Crossley R, Russell G, Husebye ES, Lightman SL. High-resolution daily profiles of tissue adrenal steroids by portable automated collection. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadg8464. [PMID: 37343084 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adg8464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Rhythms are intrinsic to endocrine systems, and disruption of these hormone oscillations occurs at very early stages of the disease. Because adrenal hormones are secreted with both circadian and ultradian periods, conventional single-time point measurements provide limited information about rhythmicity and, crucially, do not provide information during sleep, when many hormones fluctuate from nadir to peak concentrations. If blood sampling is attempted overnight, then this necessitates admission to a clinical research unit, can be stressful, and disturbs sleep. To overcome this problem and to measure free hormones within their target tissues, we used microdialysis, an ambulatory fraction collector, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to obtain high-resolution profiles of tissue adrenal steroids over 24 hours in 214 healthy volunteers. For validation, we compared tissue against plasma measurements in a further seven healthy volunteers. Sample collection from subcutaneous tissue was safe, well tolerated, and allowed most normal activities to continue. In addition to cortisol, we identified daily and ultradian variation in free cortisone, corticosterone, 18-hydroxycortisol, aldosterone, tetrahydrocortisol and allo-tetrahydrocortisol, and the presence of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. We used mathematical and computational methods to quantify the interindividual variability of hormones at different times of the day and develop "dynamic markers" of normality in healthy individuals stratified by sex, age, and body mass index. Our results provide insight into the dynamics of adrenal steroids in tissue in real-world settings and may serve as a normative reference for biomarkers of endocrine disorders (ULTRADIAN, NCT02934399).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Upton
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Eder Zavala
- Centre for Systems Modelling and Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 2TT, UK
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Olle Kämpe
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Marianne A Grytaas
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Ileana R Botusan
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Grethe Ueland
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Katarina Berinder
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katerina Simunkova
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Maria Balomenaki
- Department of Endocrinology, Evangelismos Hospital, Athens 106 76, Greece
| | | | - Nina Henne
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | | | - Georgina Russell
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Stafford L Lightman
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, Translational Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
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Åkerman AK, Sævik ÅB, Thorsby PM, Methlie P, Quinkler M, Jørgensen AP, Höybye C, Debowska AJ, Nedrebø BG, Dahle AL, Carlsen S, Tomkowicz A, Sollid ST, Nermoen I, Grønning K, Dahlqvist P, Grimnes G, Skov J, Finnes T, Wahlberg J, Holte SE, Simunkova K, Kämpe O, Husebye ES, Øksnes M, Bensing S. Plasma-Metanephrines in Patients with Autoimmune Addison's Disease with and without Residual Adrenocortical Function. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12103602. [PMID: 37240708 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12103602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Residual adrenocortical function, RAF, has recently been demonstrated in one-third of patients with autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD). Here, we set out to explore any influence of RAF on the levels of plasma metanephrines and any changes following stimulation with cosyntropin. METHODS We included 50 patients with verified RAF and 20 patients without RAF who served as controls upon cosyntropin stimulation testing. The patients had abstained from glucocorticoid and fludrocortisone replacement > 18 and 24 h, respectively, prior to morning blood sampling. The samples were obtained before and 30 and 60 min after cosyntropin stimulation and analyzed for serum cortisol, plasma metanephrine (MN), and normetanephrine (NMN) by liquid-chromatography tandem-mass pectrometry (LC-MS/MS). RESULTS Among the 70 patients with AAD, MN was detectable in 33%, 25%, and 26% at baseline, 30 min, and 60 min after cosyntropin stimulation, respectively. Patients with RAF were more likely to have detectable MN at baseline (p = 0.035) and at the time of 60 min (p = 0.048) compared to patients without RAF. There was a positive correlation between detectable MN and the level of cortisol at all time points (p = 0.02, p = 0.04, p < 0.001). No difference was noted for NMN levels, which remained within the normal reference ranges. CONCLUSION Even very small amounts of endogenous cortisol production affect MN levels in patients with AAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Karin Åkerman
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, 7804 Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Medbøe Thorsby
- Hormone Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biochemical Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Group, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, 7804 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Charlotte Höybye
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Bjørn Gunnar Nedrebø
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, 5528 Haugesund, Norway
| | - Anne Lise Dahle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, 5528 Haugesund, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, 4068 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Aneta Tomkowicz
- Department of Medicine, Sørlandet Hospital, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Stina Therese Sollid
- Department of Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Health Trust, 3004 Drammen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Kaja Grønning
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Guri Grimnes
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, 9038 Tromsø, Norway
- Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jakob Skov
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Trine Finnes
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, 2381 Hamar, Norway
| | - Jeanette Wahlberg
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, 702 81 Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Katerina Simunkova
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Olle Kämpe
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eystein Sverre Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, 7804 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, 7804 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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Graves LE, Torpy DJ, Coates PT, Alexander IE, Bornstein SR, Clarke B. Future directions for adrenal insufficiency: cellular transplantation and genetic therapies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:1273-1289. [PMID: 36611246 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Primary adrenal insufficiency occurs in 1 in 5-7000 adults. Leading aetiologies are autoimmune adrenalitis in adults and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in children. Oral replacement of cortisol is lifesaving, but poor quality of life, repeated adrenal crises and dosing uncertainty related to lack of a validated biomarker for glucocorticoid sufficiency, persists. Adrenocortical cell therapy and gene therapy may obviate many of the shortcomings of adrenal hormone replacement. Physiological cortisol secretion regulated by pituitary adrenocorticotropin, could be achieved through allogeneic adrenocortical cell transplantation, production of adrenal-like steroidogenic cells from either stem cells or lineage conversion of differentiated cells, or for CAH, gene therapy to replace or repair a defective gene. The adrenal cortex is a high turnover organ and thus failure to incorporate progenitor cells within a transplant will ultimately result in graft exhaustion. Identification of adrenocortical progenitor cells is equally important in gene therapy where new genetic material must be specifically integrated into the genome of progenitors to ensure a durable effect. Delivery of gene editing machinery and a donor template, allowing targeted correction of the 21-hydroxylase gene, has the potential to achieve this. This review describes advances in adrenal cell transplants and gene therapy that may allow physiological cortisol production for children and adults with primary adrenal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara E Graves
- Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - David J Torpy
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - P Toby Coates
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Central Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ian E Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Stefan R Bornstein
- University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Brigette Clarke
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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8
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Howarth S, Giovanelli L, Napier C, Pearce SH. Heterogeneous natural history of Addison's disease: mineralocorticoid deficiency may predominate. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e220305. [PMID: 36398876 PMCID: PMC9782445 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) is defined as primary adrenal insufficiency due to immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal cortex. This destruction of steroid-producing cells has historically been thought of as an irreversible process, with linear progression from an ACTH-driven compensated phase to overt adrenal insufficiency requiring lifelong glucocorticoid replacement. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that this process may be more heterogeneous than previously thought, with potential for complete or partial recovery of glucocorticoid secretion. Although patients with persistent mineralocorticoid deficiency despite preserved or recovered glucocorticoid function are anecdotally mentioned, few well-documented cases have been reported to date. We present three patients in the United Kingdom who further challenge the long-standing hypothesis that AAD is a progressive, irreversible disease process. We describe one patient with a 4-year history of mineralocorticoid-only Addison's disease, a patient with spontaneous recovery of adrenal function and one patient with clinical features of adrenal insufficiency despite significant residual cortisol function. All three patients show varying degrees of mineralocorticoid deficiency, suggesting that recovery of zona fasciculata function in the adrenal cortex may occur independently to that of the zona glomerulosa. We outline the current evidence for heterogeneity in the natural history of AAD and discuss possible mechanisms for the recovery of adrenal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Howarth
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Luca Giovanelli
- Department of Endocrinology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Catherine Napier
- Department of Endocrinology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Simon H Pearce
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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9
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Husebye ES, Castinetti F, Criseno S, Curigliano G, Decallonne B, Fleseriu M, Higham CE, Lupi I, Paschou SA, Toth M, van der Kooij M, Dekkers OM. Endocrine-related adverse conditions in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibition: an ESE clinical practice guideline. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:G1-G21. [PMID: 36149449 PMCID: PMC9641795 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized cancer treatment but are associated with significant autoimmune endocrinopathies that pose both diagnostic and treatment challenges. The aim of this guideline is to provide clinicians with the best possible evidence-based recommendations for treatment and follow-up of patients with ICI-induced endocrine side-effects based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. As these drugs have been used for a relatively short time, large systematic investigations are scarce. A systematic approach to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up is needed, including baseline tests of endocrine function before each treatment cycle. We conclude that there is no clear evidence for the benefit of high-dose glucocorticoids to treat endocrine toxicities with the possible exceptions of severe thyroid eye disease and hypophysitis affecting the visual apparatus. With the exception of thyroiditis, most endocrine dysfunctions appear to be permanent regardless of ICI discontinuation. Thus, the development of endocrinopathies does not dictate a need to stop ICI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science and K.G. Jebsen Center of Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Correspondence should be addressed to E S Husebye;
| | - Frederik Castinetti
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM U1251, Marseille Medical genetics, Department of Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Sherwin Criseno
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Giuseppe Curigliano
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University of Milan, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maria Fleseriu
- Pituitary Center, Department of Medicine and Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Claire E Higham
- Department of Endocrinology, Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Isabella Lupi
- Endocrine Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stavroula A Paschou
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Miklos Toth
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, ENETS Center of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Olaf M Dekkers
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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10
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Røyrvik EC, Husebye ES. The genetics of autoimmune Addison disease: past, present and future. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:399-412. [PMID: 35411072 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00653-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune Addison disease is an endocrinopathy that is fatal if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. Its rarity has hampered unbiased studies of the predisposing genetic factors. A 2021 genome-wide association study, explaining up to 40% of the genetic susceptibility, has revealed new disease loci and reproduced some of the previously reported associations, while failing to reproduce others. Credible risk loci from both candidate gene and genome-wide studies indicate that, like one of its most common comorbidities, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Addison disease is primarily caused by aberrant T cell behaviour. Here, we review the current understanding of the genetics of autoimmune Addison disease and its position in the wider field of autoimmune disorders. The mechanisms that could underlie the effects on the adrenal cortex are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C Røyrvik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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11
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Younes N, Bourdeau I, Lacroix A. Latent Adrenal Insufficiency: From Concept to Diagnosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:720769. [PMID: 34512551 PMCID: PMC8429826 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.720769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is a rare disease and potentially fatal if unrecognized. It is characterized by destruction of the adrenal cortex, most frequently of autoimmune origin, resulting in glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid, and adrenal androgen deficiencies. Initial signs and symptoms can be nonspecific, contributing to late diagnosis. Loss of zona glomerulosa function may precede zona fasciculata and reticularis deficiencies. Patients present with hallmark manifestations including fatigue, weight loss, abdominal pain, melanoderma, hypotension, salt craving, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, or acute adrenal crisis. Diagnosis is established by unequivocally low morning serum cortisol/aldosterone and elevated ACTH and renin concentrations. A standard dose (250 µg) Cosyntropin stimulation test may be needed to confirm adrenal insufficiency (AI) in partial deficiencies. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid substitution is the hallmark of treatment, alongside patient education regarding dose adjustments in periods of stress and prevention of acute adrenal crisis. Recent studies identified partial residual adrenocortical function in patients with AI and rare cases have recuperated normal hormonal function. Modulating therapies using rituximab or ACTH injections are in early stages of investigation hoping it could maintain glucocorticoid residual function and delay complete destruction of adrenal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andre Lacroix
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Research Center, Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
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12
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Chantzichristos D, Svensson PA, Garner T, Glad CA, Walker BR, Bergthorsdottir R, Ragnarsson O, Trimpou P, Stimson RH, Borresen SW, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Jansson PA, Skrtic S, Stevens A, Johannsson G. Identification of human glucocorticoid response markers using integrated multi-omic analysis from a randomized crossover trial. eLife 2021; 10:62236. [PMID: 33821793 PMCID: PMC8024021 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Glucocorticoids are among the most commonly prescribed drugs, but there is no biomarker that can quantify their action. The aim of the study was to identify and validate circulating biomarkers of glucocorticoid action. Methods: In a randomized, crossover, single-blind, discovery study, 10 subjects with primary adrenal insufficiency (and no other endocrinopathies) were admitted at the in-patient clinic and studied during physiological glucocorticoid exposure and withdrawal. A randomization plan before the first intervention was used. Besides mild physical and/or mental fatigue and salt craving, no serious adverse events were observed. The transcriptome in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and adipose tissue, plasma miRNAomic, and serum metabolomics were compared between the interventions using integrated multi-omic analysis. Results: We identified a transcriptomic profile derived from two tissues and a multi-omic cluster, both predictive of glucocorticoid exposure. A microRNA (miR-122-5p) that was correlated with genes and metabolites regulated by glucocorticoid exposure was identified (p=0.009) and replicated in independent studies with varying glucocorticoid exposure (0.01 ≤ p≤0.05). Conclusions: We have generated results that construct the basis for successful discovery of biomarker(s) to measure effects of glucocorticoids, allowing strategies to individualize and optimize glucocorticoid therapy, and shedding light on disease etiology related to unphysiological glucocorticoid exposure, such as in cardiovascular disease and obesity. Funding: The Swedish Research Council (Grant 2015-02561 and 2019-01112); The Swedish federal government under the LUA/ALF agreement (Grant ALFGBG-719531); The Swedish Endocrinology Association; The Gothenburg Medical Society; Wellcome Trust; The Medical Research Council, UK; The Chief Scientist Office, UK; The Eva Madura’s Foundation; The Research Foundation of Copenhagen University Hospital; and The Danish Rheumatism Association. Clinical trial number: NCT02152553. Several diseases, including asthma, arthritis, some skin conditions, and cancer, are treated with medications called glucocorticoids, which are synthetic versions of human hormones. These drugs are also used to treat people with a condition call adrenal insufficiency who do not produce enough of an important hormone called cortisol. Use of glucocorticoids is very common, the proportion of people in a given country taking them can range from 0.5% to 21% of the population depending on the duration of the treatment. But, like any medication, glucocorticoids have both benefits and risks: people who take glucocorticoids for a long time have an increased risk of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and death. Because of the risks associated with taking glucocorticoids, it is very important for physicians to tailor the dose to each patient’s needs. Doing this can be tricky, because the levels of glucocorticoids in a patient’s blood are not a good indicator of the medication’s activity in the body. A test that can accurately measure the glucocorticoid activity could help physicians personalize treatment and reduce harmful side effects. As a first step towards developing such a test, Chantzichristos et al. identified a potential way to measure glucocorticoid activity in patient’s blood. In the experiments, blood samples were collected from ten patients with adrenal insufficiency both when they were on no medication, and when they were taking a glucocorticoid to replace their missing hormones. Next, the blood samples were analyzed to determine which genes were turned on and off in each patient with and without the medication. They also compared small molecules in the blood called metabolites and tiny pieces of genetic material called microRNAs that turn genes on and off. The experiments revealed networks of genes, metabolites, and microRNAs that are associated with glucocorticoid activity, and one microRNA called miR-122-5p stood out as a potential way to measure glucocorticoid activity. To verify this microRNA’s usefulness, Chantzichristos et al. looked at levels of miR-122-5p in people participating in three other studies and confirmed that it was a good indicator of the glucocorticoid activity. More research is needed to confirm Chantzichristos et al.’s findings and to develop a test that can be used by physicians to measure glucocorticoid activity. The microRNA identified, miR-122-5p, has been previously linked to diabetes, so studying it further may also help scientists understand how taking glucocorticoids may increase the risk of developing diabetes and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Chantzichristos
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Per-Arne Svensson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Terence Garner
- Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Camilla Am Glad
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Brian R Walker
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.,BHF/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ragnhildur Bergthorsdottir
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Oskar Ragnarsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Penelope Trimpou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Roland H Stimson
- BHF/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Stina W Borresen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Per-Anders Jansson
- Wallenberg Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stanko Skrtic
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Innovation Strategies and External Liaison, Pharmaceutical Technologies and Development, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Adam Stevens
- Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gudmundur Johannsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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13
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Wolff AB, Breivik L, Hufthammer KO, Grytaas MA, Bratland E, Husebye ES, Oftedal BE. The natural history of 21-hydroxylase autoantibodies in autoimmune Addison's disease. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 184:607-615. [PMID: 34665570 PMCID: PMC8052519 DOI: 10.1530/eje-20-1268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most common cause of primary adrenal failure (Addison's disease) in the Western world is autoimmunity characterized by autoantibodies against the steroidogenic enzyme 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2, 21OH). Detection of 21OH-autoantibodies is currently used for aetiological diagnosis, but how levels of 21OH-autoantibodies vary over time is not known. SETTING Samples from the national Norwegian Addison's Registry and Biobank established in 1996 (n = 711). Multi-parameter modelling of the course of 21OH-autoantibody indices over time. RESULTS 21OH-autoantibody positivity is remarkably stable, and >90% of the patients are still positive 30 years after diagnosis. Even though the antibody levels decline with disease duration, it is only rarely that this downturn reaches negativity. 21OH-autoantibody indices are affected by age at diagnosis, sex, type of Addison's disease (isolated vs autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type I or II) and HLA genotype. CONCLUSION 21OH-autoantibodies are reliable and robust markers for autoimmune Addison's disease, linked to HLA risk genotype. However, a negative test in patients with long disease duration does not exclude autoimmune aetiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Boe Wolff
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars Breivik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Marianne Aardal Grytaas
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Eirik Bratland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Eystein Sverre Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway
- Correspondence should be addressed to E S Husebye;
| | - Bergithe Eikeland Oftedal
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for autoimmune disorders, University of Bergen, Norway
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14
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Hahner S, Ross RJ, Arlt W, Bancos I, Burger-Stritt S, Torpy DJ, Husebye ES, Quinkler M. Adrenal insufficiency. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2021; 7:19. [PMID: 33707469 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-021-00252-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a condition characterized by an absolute or relative deficiency of adrenal cortisol production. Primary AI (PAI) is rare and is caused by direct adrenal failure. Secondary AI (SAI) is more frequent and is caused by diseases affecting the pituitary, whereas in tertiary AI (TAI), the hypothalamus is affected. The most prevalent form is TAI owing to exogenous glucocorticoid use. Symptoms of AI are non-specific, often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and are related to the lack of cortisol, adrenal androgen precursors and aldosterone (especially in PAI). Diagnosis is based on measurement of the adrenal corticosteroid hormones, their regulatory peptide hormones and stimulation tests. The goal of therapy is to establish a hormone replacement regimen that closely mimics the physiological diurnal cortisol secretion pattern, tailored to the patient's daily needs. This Primer provides insights into the epidemiology, mechanisms and management of AI during pregnancy as well as challenges of long-term management. In addition, the importance of identifying life-threatening adrenal emergencies (acute AI and adrenal crisis) is highlighted and strategies for prevention, which include patient education, glucocorticoid emergency cards and injection kits, are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hahner
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany.
| | - Richard J Ross
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute for Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Stephanie Burger-Stritt
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - David J Torpy
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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15
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Husebye ES, Pearce SH, Krone NP, Kämpe O. Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet 2021; 397:613-629. [PMID: 33484633 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00136-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency can arise from a primary adrenal disorder, secondary to adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency, or by suppression of adrenocorticotropic hormone by exogenous glucocorticoid or opioid medications. Hallmark clinical features are unintentional weight loss, anorexia, postural hypotension, profound fatigue, muscle and abdominal pain, and hyponatraemia. Additionally, patients with primary adrenal insufficiency usually develop skin hyperpigmentation and crave salt. Diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency is usually delayed because the initial presentation is often non-specific; physician awareness must be improved to avoid adrenal crisis. Despite state-of-the-art steroid replacement therapy, reduced quality of life and work capacity, and increased mortality is reported in patients with primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Active and repeated patient education on managing adrenal insufficiency, including advice on how to increase medication during intercurrent illness, medical or dental procedures, and profound stress, is required to prevent adrenal crisis, which occurs in about 50% of patients with adrenal insufficiency after diagnosis. It is good practice for physicians to provide patients with a steroid card, parenteral hydrocortisone, and training for parenteral hydrocortisone administration, in case of vomiting or severe illness. New modes of glucocorticoid delivery could improve the quality of life in some patients with adrenal insufficiency, and further advances in oral and parenteral therapy will probably emerge in the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science and KG Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Simon H Pearce
- Department of Endocrinology, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nils P Krone
- Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Olle Kämpe
- Department of Clinical Science and KG Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Center of Molecular Medicine, and Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Pearce SHS, Gan EH, Napier C. MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Residual adrenal function in Addison's disease. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 184:R61-R67. [PMID: 33306039 PMCID: PMC7849375 DOI: 10.1530/eje-20-0894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 10 years, evidence has accumulated that autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) is a heterogeneous disease. Residual adrenal function, characterised by persistent secretion of cortisol, other glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids is present in around 30% of patients with established AAD, and appears commoner in men. This persistent steroidogenesis is present in some patients with AAD for more than 20 years, but it is commoner in people with shorter disease duration. The clinical significance of residual adrenal function is not fully clear at the moment, but as it signifies an intact adrenocortical stem cell population, it opens up the possibility of regeneration of adrenal steroidogenesis and improvement in adrenal failure for some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon H S Pearce
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
- Endocrine Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to S H S Pearce;
| | - Earn H Gan
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
- Endocrine Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
| | - Catherine Napier
- Endocrine Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK
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17
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Sævik ÅB, Wolff AB, Björnsdottir S, Simunkova K, Hynne MS, Dolan DWP, Bratland E, Knappskog PM, Methlie P, Carlsen S, Isaksson M, Bensing S, Kämpe O, Husebye ES, Løvås K, Øksnes M. Potential Transcriptional Biomarkers to Guide Glucocorticoid Replacement in Autoimmune Addison's Disease. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvaa202. [PMID: 33553982 PMCID: PMC7853175 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background No reliable biomarkers exist to guide glucocorticoid (GC) replacement treatment in autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD), leading to overtreatment with alarming and persistent side effects or undertreatment, which could be fatal. Objective To explore changes in gene expression following different GC replacement doses as a means of identifying candidate transcriptional biomarkers to guide GC replacement in AAD. Methods Step 1: Global microarray expression analysis on RNA from whole blood before and after intravenous infusion of 100 mg hydrocortisone (HC) in 10 patients with AAD. In 3 of the most highly upregulated genes, we performed real-time PCR (rt-PCR) to compare gene expression levels before and 3, 4, and 6 hours after the HC infusion. Step 2: Rt-PCR to compare expression levels of 93 GC-regulated genes in normal versus very low morning cortisol levels in 27 patients with AAD. Results Step 1: Two hours after infusion of 100 mg HC, there was a marked increase in FKBP5, MMP9, and DSIPI expression levels. MMP9 and DSIPI expression levels correlated with serum cortisol. Step 2: Expression levels of CEBPB, DDIT4, FKBP5, DSIPI, and VDR were increased and levels of ADARB1, ARIDB5, and POU2F1 decreased in normal versus very low morning cortisol. Normal serum cortisol levels positively correlated with DSIPI, DDIT4, and FKBP5 expression. Conclusions We introduce gene expression as a novel approach to guide GC replacement in AAD. We suggest that gene expression of DSIPI, DDIT4, and FKBP5 are particularly promising candidate biomarkers of GC replacement, followed by MMP9, CEBPB, VDR, ADARB1, ARID5B, and POU2F1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anette B Wolff
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sigridur Björnsdottir
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Eirik Bratland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per M Knappskog
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Magnus Isaksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olle Kämpe
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristian Løvås
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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