Endocrine Abstracts

Background: Conventional glucocorticoid replacement therapies result in unphysiological variation in plasma cortisol levels; concern has been raised regarding long-term metabolic consequences. Glucocorticoid replacement is technically feasible by continuous subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusion (CSHI), which can mimic the normal diurnal cortisol rhythm. The aim of this study was to compare insulin sensitivity in patients with Addison’s disease (AD) on CSHI vs three daily d...

Background: Conventional glucocorticoid replacement therapy in patients with Addison’s disease (AD) is unphysiological with possible adverse effects on mortality, morbidity and quality of life. Physiological amounts of glucocorticoids are required for normal GH production and release and a chronically raised cortisol level, suppresses the secretion of GH with possible metabolic and cardiovascular consequences. The diurnal cortisol profile can likely be restored by continu...

Background: Current dogma states that in autoimmune Addison’s disease (AAD), all adrenocortical function eventually is lost. Yet growing evidence suggests that a subgroup of patients retain some self-production.Aim: To explore whether residual production of adrenocortical steroids is present in a subgroup of AAD patients.Material and methods: In an open non-randomized cross-sectional study, an interim of 22 AAD patients delive...