Corticosteroid replacement therapy in hepatoadrenal syndrome: case report with a review of the literature

Abstract

In liver cirrhosis, hepatoadrenal syndrome has been described recently as a progressive impairment in the adrenocortical reserve, with deficient production or action of glucocorticoids resulting in adrenal insufficiency. Data on the treatment of this syndrome are scarce. We report a case of a 60-year-old male patient referred to our hospital because of rectal bleeding and bilateral leg swelling. He complained of marked weakness, bilateral leg swelling, and shortness of breath with exertion for the last 2 months. Biochemistry and imaging indicated liver cirrhosis. Because of the weakness and persistent hypotension, we performed a low-dose synacthen test, which indicated adrenal insufficiency (baseline cortisol level 1.8 μg/dl, increasing to 3.5 and 3.7 μg/dl at 20 and 30 min, respectively). The patient's general condition improved promptly after corticosteroid supplementation.