E24.1: Nelson syndrome
The messenger substance cortisol affects many processes in the body. For example, cortisol is released with stress. Cortisol also affects the sugar level in the blood and the blood pressure. The messenger substance cortisol is created in the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located on the kidneys. The work of the adrenal glands is influenced by a regulating messenger substance from the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is a gland in the brain.
Your adrenal glands had to be removed in the past. As a result, you have less cortisol in your body. If there is less cortisol in the body, more of the regulating messenger substance is created in the pituitary gland. In your case however, the regulating messenger substance is no longer able to create cortisol, because you no longer have your adrenal glands.
The regulating messenger substance then causes very dark skin, for example. If the pituitary gland has to work more and becomes larger, the tissue may press on the optic nerve. As a result, you may have impaired vision.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.