Familial Schmidt's syndrome

Abstract

Among the 17 offspring of a common father, overt adrenal and thyroid insufficiency developed in three brothers. In eight of the 12 siblings then examined, and also in one of the two mothers of this kindred, endocrine abnormalities were documented. Early compensated adrenal and thyroid hypofunction with organ-specific antibodies were found in asymptomatic relatives. Pernicious anemia, vitiligo, and alopecia were also seen. Age of clinical onset varied from 18 to 38 years. Familial investigations may identify asymptomatic persons at risk for the development of serious endocrine deficiencies.