Acute adrenal crisis and mortality in adrenal insufficiency: Still a concern in 2018!

Abstract

Despite established replacement therapy, mortality in patients suffering from chronic adrenal insufficiency is increasing. This may be partly explained by the fact that lack of adrenal stress hormones impairs the body's capacity to deal adequately with stress situations, resulting in life-threatening adrenal crises. Since many such situations are of rapid onset, concepts that allow for quick response to emergencies are particularly important. Optimal education for patients and relatives, improved awareness on the part of health professionals and the development of new easy-to-use drugs for acute therapy are of prime importance.