E27.1: Primary adrenocortical insufficiency

The adrenal glands are at the top of the kidneys. The adrenal glands form the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol has many effects in the body. For example, cortisol is important for the sugar level in the blood and for blood pressure. The adrenal glands also form a hormone that controls the amount of blood salts. Blood salts help regulate the moisture content in the body. The adrenal glands also form sex hormones. Every person has female and male sex hormones in their body.

Tissue in your adrenal gland has been damaged and destroyed. A common cause of this is the immune system. The immune system creates antibodies that attack the body’s own tissue. The adrenal gland is then no longer able to create enough messenger substances.

There may be various symptoms as a result. For example, you may lose weight, become weaker and have low blood pressure. The skin may also have a bronze discoloration. The symptoms may become more intense with stress. It is also possible that you will have no symptoms at all.

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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.