FRI235 Primary Adrenal Insufficiency As Presenting Symptom Of Disseminated Histoplasmosis And Cryptococcus Co-Infection In Immunocompetent Patient

Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: A. Thompson: None. Background: Autoimmune adrenalitis remains the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency in the United States. Infectious etiologies from fungal sources are much less commonly seen. Below we discuss a case of disseminated histoplasmosis and cryptococcus that initially presented with primary adrenal insufficiency. Case: A 74 y/o F with history of Type 2 DM presented to the hospital with 3 months of fatigue and weight loss. She was initially found to be in DKA and shock requiring vasopressor support. Following the resolution of DKA, she remained hypotensive without obvious cause. A random cortisol was found to be 8.2 [6-25 ug/dL]. She then underwent an ACTH stimulation test and her cortisol level at 30 minutes was 5.9 ug/dL and at 60 minutes was 4.2 ug/dL. An ACTH level was obtained and found to be elevated at 69 [7.2-63 pg/mL]. She was subsequently started on Hydrocortisone and her shock resolved. CT adrenal glands were notable for bilateral adrenal masses measuring 4.5 cm on the right and 4.6 cm on the left with HU of 27. No other suspicious lesions were noted on imaging. An infectious work up was initiated, which was notable for fungal serologies positive of Histoplasmosis with titer of 1:8 (<1:8). Histoplasmosis urine antigen was positive as well. She was tested for Cryptococcus, which was positive with a titer of 1:8 (<1:8). She started treatment with Amphotericin B for 4 weeks followed by Itraconazole for maintenance therapy. Discussion: Primary adrenal insufficiency from invasive fungal infection remains uncommon and is found in less than 10% of cases. Disseminated fungal infections are identified as causes like histoplasmosis and paracoccidiomycosis. Disseminated cryptococcus is an exceedingly rare cause of adrenal insufficiency. These invasive infections can lead to bilateral enlargement of the adrenal glands and calcifications are seen on radiographic imaging. Such cases can also lead to perivasculitis and cause thrombosis and subsequent infarction of the adrenal glands. Disseminated fungal infections are more commonly seen in patients with underlying immunodeficiency such as HIV or those receiving immunosuppressant therapy. This case highlights that these infections can still be seen in those without a compromised immune system. Diagnosis can be challenging given the vague symptoms of adrenal insufficiency but should be considered in patients with electrolyte disturbances, hypoglycemia, and hypotension. There is potential for adrenal recovery following treatment with antifungal therapy. Conclusion: Although autoimmune adrenalitis is the most common cause of primary adrenal insufficiency in the US, this case highlights the importance of evaluating for other potential causes such as infectious sources, which can be treated and potentially have adrenal recovery. Presentation: Friday, June 16, 2023