Addison's disease with pituitary hyperplasia: a case report and review of the literature

Endocrine. 2009 Jun;35(3):285-9. doi: 10.1007/s12020-009-9179-x. Epub 2009 Apr 9.

Abstract

This case study describes a 33-year-old man with Addison's disease who presented with increased plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), normal plasma cortisol, and absent diurnal rhythms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicated pituitary hyperplasia. Conventional hydrocortisone replacement therapy may not inhibit high ACTH levels in the morning; however, replacing hydrocortisone with dexamethasone achieved good therapeutic results.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Addison Disease / complications*
  • Addison Disease / diagnostic imaging
  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Hyperplasia / complications
  • Hyperplasia / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Pituitary Diseases / complications*
  • Pituitary Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Pituitary Gland / pathology*
  • Radiography