Large-Dose Glucocorticoid Induced Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency in Spinal Cord Injury

Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2016 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5535/arm.2016.40.6.1033 · Published: December 1, 2016

Simple Explanation

Adrenal insufficiency (AI) occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough steroid hormones, mainly cortisol, hindering the body's stress response during trauma or critical illness. Secondary AI often stems from issues in the hypothalamic-pituitary area or prolonged steroid use, and diagnosing it can be tricky because its symptoms are similar to those of spinal cord injury (SCI). This study aims to find out how common AI is in SCI patients who have AI-like symptoms, and to see how AI and high doses of glucocorticoids are connected in SCI cases.

Study Duration

2 Years

Participants

228 patients with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
A significant portion (41.4%) of SCI patients with AI-like symptoms were diagnosed with AI based on ACTH stimulation tests.
2
The prevalence of AI was significantly higher (66.7%) in SCI patients who had been treated with large doses of glucocorticoids after their injury.
3
The most common symptoms observed in SCI patients with AI were fatigue (66%), followed by orthostatic dizziness (50%), and anorexia (25%).

Research Summary

This study investigated the incidence of adrenal insufficiency (AI) in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients presenting with AI-like symptoms, particularly in relation to large-dose glucocorticoid treatment. The study found a high incidence of AI in symptomatic SCI patients, especially those treated with large-dose glucocorticoids, suggesting a correlation between glucocorticoid use and AI development. Early recognition and treatment of AI in SCI patients with symptoms like fatigue, orthostatic dizziness, and anorexia are crucial, especially in those with a history of large-dose glucocorticoid use.

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of AI in SCI patients, especially those treated with large-dose glucocorticoids, who present with symptoms like fatigue, orthostatic dizziness and anorexia.

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Early recognition and treatment of AI are crucial to prevent life-threatening conditions in SCI patients.

Glucocorticoid Use

The use of glucocorticoids in SCI management should be carefully considered due to the potential risk of inducing AI.

Large-Dose Glucocorticoid Induced Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency in Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Glucocorticoid Use

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Large-Dose Glucocorticoid Induced Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency in Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Glucocorticoid Use

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?