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Review
. 2025 Jan 10;17(Suppl 1):72-79.
doi: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2024.2024-7-2-S. Epub 2024 Dec 23.

Central Adrenal Insufficiency: Etiology and Diagnostic Approach

Melek Yıldız  1 , Ruken Yıldırım  2 , Firdevs Baş  1
Affiliations
Review

Central Adrenal Insufficiency: Etiology and Diagnostic Approach

Melek Yıldız et al. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol. .

Abstract

Central adrenal insufficiency (CAI) occurs due to a pituitary gland disorder (secondary AI) or hypothalamic dysfunction (tertiary AI). It is a potentially life-threatening condition that has many congenital and acquired causes. Adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency may be isolated or more commonly it can be accompanied by other pituitary hormone deficiencies or midline defects. The signs and symptoms of CAI are associated with glucocorticoid deficiency. A three-step diagnostic approach including dynamic stimulation tests is recommended in the evaluation of patients with suspected CAI. Here, members of the ‘Adrenal Working Group’ of ‘The Turkish Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes’ present an evidence-based review with good practice points and recommendations for etiology and diagnostic approach in children and adolescents with CAI.

Keywords: ACTH; Central adrenal insufficiency; children; guideline; secondary.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest: None declared

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Diagnostic approach in patients with suspected central adrenal insufficiency (modified from references 15 and 19) AI: adrenal insufficiency, ITT: insulin tolerance test, ACTH: adrenocorticotropic hormone
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