1
|
Chifu I, Quinkler M, Altieri B, Hannemann A, Völzke H, Lang K, Reisch N, Pamporaki C, Willenberg HS, Beuschlein F, Burger-Stritt S, Hahner S. Morbidity in Patients with Chronic Adrenal Insufficiency - Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Hospitalization Rate Compared to Population Based Controls. Horm Metab Res 2024; 56:20-29. [PMID: 37827510 DOI: 10.1055/a-2190-3735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) have been found to have increased cardiovascular morbidity, partly associated with nonphysiologic glucocorticoid replacement. We included two separate cohorts (cohort 1 n=384 patients, cohort 2 n=180 patients) of patients with chronic primary and secondary AI under standard replacement therapy and compared them to two age- and sex-matched population-based studies (SHIP-TREND/DEGS). Odds ratios with 95% CI for hypertension, hyperlipidemia/HLP, type 2 diabetes/T2DM, obesity, and hospitalization with adjustment for confounders were evaluated by logistic regression. Patient cohort 1 had significantly lower ORs for obesity [0.4 (0.3-0.6), p<0.001] and hypertension [0.5 (0.3-0.6), p<0.001] compared to SHIP-TREND and for obesity [0.7 (0.5-0.9), p=0.01], hypertension [0.4 (0.3-0.5), p<0.001] and HLP [0.4 (0.3-0.6), p<0.001] compared to DEGS. In cohort 2, ORs were significantly lower for HLP compared to both SHIP-TREND [0.4 (0.2-0.7), p=0.001] and DEGS [0.3 (0.2-0.5), p<0.001] and for hypertension [0.7 (0.4-0.9), p=0.04] compared to SHIP-TREND. In patients with SAI from cohort 2, ORs for DM2 [2.5 (1.3-4.9) p=0.009], hypertension [2.5 (1.4-4.5), p=0.002] and obesity [1.9 (1.1-3.1), p=0.02] were significantly higher compared to DEGS, whereas ORs for HLP were significantly lower compared to both SHIP [0.3 (0.1-0.6), p=0.002] and DEGS [0.3 (0.1-0.6), p<0.001]. In most of our AI patients treated with conventional glucocorticoid doses, the risk for T2DM, obesity, hypertension, and HLP was not increased. The number of hospitalizations was significantly higher in AI patients compared to controls, which might reflect increased susceptibility but also a more proactive management of concomitant diseases by physicians and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Chifu
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine I, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | | | - Barbara Altieri
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine I, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Anke Hannemann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Henry Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Katharina Lang
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine I, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Endocrinology in Charlottenburg/Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Department of Endocrine Research, Department of Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Pamporaki
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Felix Beuschlein
- Department of Endocrine Research, Department of Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), and University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
- LOOP Zurich - Medical Research Center, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie Burger-Stritt
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine I, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hahner
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine I, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sævik ÅB, Ueland G, Åkerman AK, Methlie P, Quinkler M, Jørgensen AP, Höybye C, Debowska AWJ, Nedrebø BG, Dahle AL, Carlsen S, Tomkowicz A, Sollid ST, Nermoen I, Grønning K, Dahlqvist P, Grimnes G, Skov J, Finnes T, Valland SF, Wahlberg J, Holte SE, Kämpe O, Bensing S, Husebye ES, Øksnes M. Altered biomarkers for cardiovascular disease and inflammation in autoimmune Addison's disease - a cross-sectional study. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 189:438-447. [PMID: 37807083 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease has been reported in autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD), but pathomechanisms are poorly understood. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS We compared serum levels of 177 cardiovascular and inflammatory biomarkers in 43 patients with AAD at >18-h glucocorticoid withdrawal and 43 matched controls, overall and stratified for sex. Biomarker levels were correlated with the frequency of adrenal crises and quality of life (QoL) by AddiQoL-30. Finally, we investigated changes in biomarker levels following 250 µg tetracosactide injection in patients without residual adrenocortical function (RAF) to explore glucocorticoid-independent effects of high ACTH. RESULTS Nineteen biomarkers significantly differed between patients with AAD and controls; all but 1 (ST1A1) were higher in AAD. Eight biomarkers were significantly higher in female patients compared with controls (IL6, MCP1, GAL9, SPON2, DR4, RAGE, TNFRSF9, and PGF), but none differed between male patients and controls. Levels of RAGE correlated with the frequency of adrenal crises (r = 0.415, P = .006) and AddiQoL-30 scores (r = -0.347, P = .028) but not after correction for multiple testing. PDL2 and leptin significantly declined 60 min after injection of ACTH in AAD without RAF (-0.15 normalized protein expression [NPX], P = .0001, and -0.25 NPX, P = .0003, respectively). CONCLUSIONS We show that cardiovascular and inflammatory biomarkers are altered in AAD compared with controls, particularly in women. RAGE might be a marker of disease severity in AAD, associated with more adrenal crises and reduced QoL. High ACTH reduced PDL2 and leptin levels in a glucocorticoid-independent manner but the overall effect on biomarker profiles was small.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Grethe Ueland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Anna-Karin Åkerman
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro 702 17, Sweden
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
| | - Marcus Quinkler
- Practice for Endocrinology and Nephrology, Endocrinology in Charlottenburg, Berlin 10627, Germany
| | | | - Charlotte Höybye
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | | | | | - Anne Lise Dahle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, Haugesund 5528, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger 4019, Norway
| | - Aneta Tomkowicz
- Department of Medicine, Sørlandet Hospital, Kristiansand 4604, Norway
| | - Stina Therese Sollid
- Department of Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Health Trust, Drammen 3004, Norway
| | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Kaja Grønning
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå 907 37, Sweden
| | - Guri Grimnes
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø 9019, Norway
- Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø 9019, Norway
| | - Jakob Skov
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Trine Finnes
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar 2318, Norway
| | - Susanna F Valland
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar 2318, Norway
| | - Jeanette Wahlberg
- Department of Endocrinology, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
| | | | - Olle Kämpe
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Eystein Sverre Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen 5021, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 171 77, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tschaidse L, Reisch N, Arlt W, Brac de la Perriere A, Linden Hirschberg A, Juul A, Mallappa A, Merke DP, Newell-Price JDC, Perry CG, Prete A, Rees DA, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Touraine PA, Coope H, Porter J, Ross RJM, Quinkler M. Modified-release hydrocortisone is associated with lower plasma renin activity in patients with salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:6991929. [PMID: 36654495 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvac006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Poorly controlled salt-wasting (SW) congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients often require high 9α-fluorocortisol doses as they show high levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), which is a mineralocorticoid (MC)-receptor antagonist. DESIGN We investigated the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in patients with SW-CAH receiving twice daily modified-release hydrocortisone (MR-HC, Efmody) compared with standard glucocorticoid (GC) therapy. METHODS Data were analyzed from the 6-month, phase 3 study of MR-HC (n = 42) versus standard GC therapy (n = 41). MC replacement therapy remained unchanged throughout the study. Blood pressure, serum potassium, serum sodium, plasma renin activity (PRA), and serum 17OHP and androstenedione concentrations were analyzed at baseline, 4, 12, and 24 weeks. RESULTS The median serum 17OHP in the morning was significantly lower on MR-HC compared with standard GC at 24 weeks (2.5 nmol L-1 (IQR 8.3) versus 10.5 nmol L-1 (IQR 55.2), P = .001). PRA decreased significantly from baseline to 24 weeks in patients on MR-HC (0.83 ng L-1 s-1 (IQR 1.0) to 0.48 ng L-1 s-1 (IQR 0.61), P = .012) but not in patients on standard GC (0.53 ng L-1 s-1 (IQR 0.66) to 0.52 ng L-1 s-1 (IQR 0.78), P = .613). Serum sodium concentrations increased from baseline to 24 weeks in patients on MR-HC (138.8 ± 1.9 mmol L-1 to 139.3 ± 1.8 mmol L-1, P = .047), but remained unchanged on standard GC (139.8 ± 1.6 mmol L-1 to 139.3 ± 1.9 mmol L-1, P = .135). No significant changes were seen in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and serum potassium levels. CONCLUSION 6 months of MR-HC therapy decreased PRA and increased sodium levels indicating a greater agonist action of the 9α-fluorocortisol dose, which may be due to the decreased levels of the MC-receptor antagonist 17OHP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Tschaidse
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Aude Brac de la Perriere
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Fédération d'Endocrinologie, Groupement hospitalier Est, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Angelica Linden Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ashwini Mallappa
- AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Colin G Perry
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - D Aled Rees
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | - Philippe A Touraine
- University Hospitals Pitié Salpêtrière - Charles Foix, Center for Rare Endocrine and Gynecological Disorders, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chifu I, Weng AM, Burger-Stritt S, Bley TA, Christa M, Köstler H, Hahner S. Non-invasive assessment of tissue sodium content in patients with primary adrenal insufficiency. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:383-390. [PMID: 35895687 PMCID: PMC9346263 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Replacement therapy in primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) with corticosteroids modulates sodium homeostasis. Serum sodium is, however, prone to osmotic shifts induced by several additional factors besides corticosteroids and does not always reliably reflect treatment quality. Non-osmotic tissue storage can be visualized by sodium MRI (23Na-MRI) and might better reflect corticosteroid activity. DESIGN Longitudinal study of 8 patients with newly diagnosed PAI and cross-sectional study in 22 patients with chronic PAI is reported here. Comparison was made with matched healthy controls. METHODS Using a 23Na-MRI protocol on a 3T scanner, relative sodium signal intensities (rSSI) to signal intensities of the reference vial with 100 mmol/L of sodium were determined in the muscle and skin of the lower calf. RESULTS In newly diagnosed patients, tissue rSSI (median, range) were reduced and significantly increased after treatment initiation reaching levels similar to healthy controls (muscle: from 0.15 (0.08, 0.18) to 0.18 (0.14, 0.27), P = 0.02; skin: from 0.12 (0.09, 0.18) to 0.18 (0.14, 0.28), P < 0.01). Muscle rSSI was significantly higher in patients with chronic PAI compared to controls (0.19 (0.14, 0.27) vs 0.16 (0.12, 0.20), P < 0.01). In chronic PAI, skin rSSI significantly correlated with plasma renin concentration. CONCLUSION 23Na-MRI provides an additional insight into sodium homeostasis, and thus the quality of replacement therapy in PAI, as tissue sodium significantly changes once therapy is initiated. The increased tissue sodium in patients with chronic PAI might be an indication of over-replacement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Chifu
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Würzburg, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to I Chifu;
| | - Andreas Max Weng
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Burger-Stritt
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Würzburg, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Alexander Bley
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin Christa
- Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, University and University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Herbert Köstler
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hahner
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Würzburg, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ahmed M, Maliyakkal AM. Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Shortly After Starting Steroid Replacement Therapy in a Patient With Adrenal Insufficiency. Cureus 2022; 14:e25061. [PMID: 35719802 PMCID: PMC9201412 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency is a rare disorder that results from etiological factors affecting either the hypothalamic-pituitary axis or the adrenal gland itself. Studies have associated an inherently increased risk of cardiovascular events with this condition. It is treated with exogenous steroid supplementation. However, in recent years, there have been an increasing number of reports regarding the potential of steroid therapy to precipitate acute cardiac events. However, this risk is generally assumed to be dose-dependent and could be absent in patients receiving low-dose glucocorticoid treatment. We present a case of a 71-year-old woman who was admitted to our institution with bilateral lower limb swelling. Blood investigation revealed hypoalbuminemia and hyponatremia. Upon further evaluation she was diagnosed to have adrenal insufficiency and was started on hydrocortisone replacement therapy; however, the patient developed non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and acute pulmonary edema a few days after starting steroid replacement therapy. Here, we discuss the possible association between hydrocortisone use and the development of acute cardiac events.
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Addison's disease typically results from the autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex and requires lifelong replacement with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Main symptoms are non-specific and, therefore, often overlooked or misleading. Patients are frequently not diagnosed until experiencing a life-threatening adrenal crisis. This article highlights the essential clinical characteristics, diagnostic aspects and principles of management of adrenal insufficiency.
Collapse
|
7
|
Prediction of diabetes mellitus induced by steroid overtreatment in adrenal insufficiency. Sci Rep 2022; 12:885. [PMID: 35042934 PMCID: PMC8766568 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-04904-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess the differences between patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and prediabetes/diabetes mellitus (DM) in secondary adrenal insufficiency (SAI). We cross-sectionally evaluated 102, out of a total of 140, patients with SAI, who were on hydrocortisone (HC) (n = 50) and cortisone acetate (n = 52) replacement therapy. Clinical, anthropometric, and metabolic parameters were compared in patients with NGT (n = 60) and DM (n = 42). Patients with prediabetes/DM have a more marked family history of DM (p = 0.002), BMI (p < 0.001), higher waist circumference (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p = 0.012), LDL-cholesterol (p = 0.004), triglycerides (p = 0.031), fasting glucose (p = 0.002), fasting insulin (p = 0.035), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (p = 0.018), HOMA-IR (p = 0.039), area under curves of glucose (p = 0.001) and insulin (p = 0.002), HbA1c (p < 0.001), Visceral adiposity index (VAI) (p = 0.038) and lower ISI-Matsuda (p = 0.008) and oral disposition index (p < 0.001) than patients with NGT. Multivariate analysis showed that family history of DM and VAI are independent predictive factors for DM in patients with SAI. Family history of DM and VAI can be predictors of the development of DM in patients with SAI and need to be investigated during steroid replacement therapy. Interestingly, the type and the dose of replacement steroid do not impact on diabetes mellitus.
Collapse
|
8
|
Guarnotta V, Amodei R, Giordano C. Metabolic comorbidities of adrenal insufficiency: Focus on steroid replacement therapy and chronopharmacology. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2021; 60:123-132. [PMID: 34416524 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is characterized by higher mortality and morbidity compared with the general population. Conventional replacement steroid therapy, currently recommended for the treatment of AI, is associated with increased frequency of metabolic comorbidities due to daily overexposure. By contrast, dual-release hydrocortisone is associated with a decreased risk of metabolic comorbidities, providing an adequate release of hydrocortisone and mimicking the physiological profile of cortisol. These favorable effects are due to a reduced daily steroid exposure that does not affect the expression of the clock genes which are involved in metabolic pathways and are regulated by the normal physiological circadian rhythm of endogenous cortisol. This narrative review focuses on the possible metabolic comorbidities of AI due to steroid replacement therapy, which evaluates the effects of conventional and novel drugs with attention to chronopharmacology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Guarnotta
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute Materno-Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Sezione di Malattie Endocrine, del Ricambio e della Nutrizione, Università di Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberta Amodei
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute Materno-Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Sezione di Malattie Endocrine, del Ricambio e della Nutrizione, Università di Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute Materno-Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Sezione di Malattie Endocrine, del Ricambio e della Nutrizione, Università di Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hasenmajer V, Bonaventura I, Minnetti M, Sada V, Sbardella E, Isidori AM. Non-Canonical Effects of ACTH: Insights Into Adrenal Insufficiency. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:701263. [PMID: 34489864 PMCID: PMC8416901 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.701263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is produced from proopiomelanocortin, which is predominantly synthetized in the corticotroph and melanotroph cells of the anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary gland and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. Although ACTH clearly has an effect on adrenal homeostasis and maintenance of steroid hormone production, it also has extra-adrenal effects that require further elucidation. Methods We comprehensively reviewed English language articles, regardless of whether they reported the presence or absence of adrenal and extra-adrenal ACTH effects. Results In the present review, we provide an overview on the current knowledge on adrenal and extra-adrenal effects of ACTH. In the section on adrenal ACTH effects, we focused on corticosteroid rhythmicity and effects on steroidogenesis, mineralocorticoids and adrenal growth. In the section on extra-adrenal effects, we have analyzed the effects of ACTH on the osteoarticular and reproductive systems, adipocytes, immune system, brain and skin. Finally, we focused on adrenal insufficiency. Conclusions The role of ACTH in maintaining the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is well known. Conversely, if we broaden our vision and analyze its role as a potential treatment strategy in other conditions, it will be evident in the literature that researchers seem to have abandoned this aspect in studies conducted several years ago. We believe it is worth re-evaluating the role of ACTH considering its noncanonical effects on the adrenal gland itself and on extra-adrenal organs and tissues; however, this would not have been possible without the recent advances in the pertinent technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrea M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome - Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Quinkler M, Murray RD, Zhang P, Marelli C, Petermann R, Isidori AM, Ekman B. Characterization of patients with adrenal insufficiency and frequent adrenal crises. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 184:761-771. [PMID: 33769953 PMCID: PMC8111327 DOI: 10.1530/eje-20-1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize the clinical and biochemical features of patients with primary (PAI) and secondary (SAI) adrenal insufficiency who developed adrenal crises (ACs) and estimate the incidence of ACs in these patients. DESIGN Retrospective case-control analysis of the European Adrenal Insufficiency Registry (EU-AIR; NCT01661387). METHODS Two thousand six hundred and ninety-four patients with AI (1054 PAI; 1640 SAI) enrolled in EU-AIR. Patients who developed ≥ 1 AC were matchd 1:3 with patients without ACs for age, sex and AI type. Data were collected at baseline and follow-up (mean ± s.d.: PAI 3.2 ± 1.7 years; SAI 2.9 ± 1.7 years). RESULTS One hundred and forty-eight out of 2694 patients (5.5%; n = 84 PAI; n = 64 SAI) had an AC during the study: 6.53 (PAI) and 3.17 (SAI) ACs/100 patient-years. Of patients who experienced an AC, 16% (PAI) and 9.4% (SAI) experienced ≥ 1 AC/year. The incidence of adverse events, infectious intercurrent illnesses and infectious serious adverse events were higher in patients with ACs than without ACs. No differences were observed in BMI, HbA1c, blood pressure and frequencies of diabetes mellitus or hypertension between subgroups (PAI and SAI, with and without ACs). At baseline, PAI patients with AC had higher serum potassium (4.3 ± 0.5 vs 4.2 ± 0.4 mmol/L; P = 0.03) and lower sodium (138.5 ± 3.4 vs 139.7 ± 2.9 mmol/L; P = 0.004) than patients without AC. At last observation, SAI patients with AC had higher hydrocortisone doses than patients without AC (11.9 ± 5.1 vs 10.1 ± 2.9 mg/m2; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that concomitant diseases and cardiovascular risk factors do not feature in the risk profile of AC; however, patients with AC had a higher incidence of infectious events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Quinkler
- Endocrinology in Charlottenburg, Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to M Quinkler Email
| | - Robert D Murray
- Department of Endocrinology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Pinggao Zhang
- Shire Human Genetic Therapies, a member of the Takeda Group of Companies, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Claudio Marelli
- Shire International GmbH, a member of the Takeda Group of Companies, Zug, Switzerland
| | - Robert Petermann
- Baxalta Innovations GmbH, a member of the Takeda Group of Companies, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Bertil Ekman
- Departments of Endocrinology in Linköping, and Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ngaosuwan K, Johnston DG, Godsland IF, Cox J, Majeed A, Quint JK, Oliver N, Robinson S. Cardiovascular Disease in Patients With Primary and Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency and the Role of Comorbidities. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:1284-1293. [PMID: 33585930 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Mortality studies have established that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with adrenal insufficiency and the risk is greater than that observed in individually matched controls. OBJECTIVE Here we have performed a detailed analysis of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, taking account of the role of comorbidities. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), a UK general practitioner database. The participant population comprised 6821 patients with adrenal insufficiency (primary, 2052; secondary, 3948) compared with 67 564 individually matched controls, with and without adjustment for comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, previous cardiovascular disease, and smoking). The main outcome measures were composite cardiovascular events recorded in the CPRD and cardiovascular mortality in participants with linked national mortality data. RESULTS Hazard ratios (95% CI) for composite cardiovascular events in patients with adrenal insufficiency of any cause were 1.28 (1.20-1.36, unadjusted) and 1.07 (1.01-1.14, adjusted). Increased cerebrovascular events in patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency accounted for most of the increased hazard (1.53 [1.34-1.74, adjusted]) and were associated with cranial irradiation therapy. Cardiovascular mortality data were available for 3547 patients and 34 944 controls. The adjusted hazard ratio for ischemic heart disease mortality was 1.86 (1.25-2.78) for primary adrenal insufficiency and 1.39 (1.02-1.89) for secondary. CONCLUSION Comorbidities largely accounted for the increased cardiovascular events but in secondary adrenal insufficiency, cerebrovascular events were independently increased and associated with irradiation treatment. However, the risk of cardiovascular mortality remained increased even following adjustment for comorbidities in both primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanchana Ngaosuwan
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Desmond G Johnston
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ian F Godsland
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Cox
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College NHS trust, London, UK
| | - Azeem Majeed
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jennifer K Quint
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nick Oliver
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen Robinson
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College NHS trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Puglisi S, Rossini A, Tabaro I, Cannavò S, Ferrau' F, Ragonese M, Borretta G, Pellegrino M, Dughera F, Parisi A, Latina A, Pia A, Terzolo M, Reimondo G. What factors have impact on glucocorticoid replacement in adrenal insufficiency: a real-life study. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:865-872. [PMID: 32779106 PMCID: PMC7946659 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01386-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The impact of patient's characteristics on glucocorticoid (GC) replacement therapy in adrenal insufficiency (AI) is poorly evaluated. Aims of this study were to assess the influence of sex and body weight on GC dosing and to describe the choice of GC in AI of different etiologies. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated hydrocortisone (HC) equivalent total daily dose (HC-TDD) and per-kg-daily dose (HC-KDD) in 203 patients (104 primary AI [pAI], 99 secondary AI [sAI]) followed up for ≥ 12 months. They were treated with HC, modified-release HC (MRHC) or cortisone acetate (CA) and fludrocortisone acetate (FCA) in pAI. RESULTS At baseline, CA was preferred both in pAI and sAI; at last visit, MRHC was most used in pAI (49%) and CA in sAI (73.7%). Comparing the last visit with baseline, in pAI, HC-TDD and HC-KDD were significantly lower (p = 0.04 and p = 0.006, respectively), while FCA doses increased during follow-up (p = 0.02). The reduction of HC-TDD and HC-KDD was particularly relevant for pAI women (p = 0.04 and p = 0.002, respectively). In sAI patients, no change of HC-KDD and HC-TDD was observed, and we found a correlation between weight and HC-TDD in males (r 0.35, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Our real-life study demonstrated the influence of etiology of AI on the type of GC used, a weight-based tailoring in sAI, a likely overdosage of GC treatment in pAI women at the start of treatment and the possibility to successfully increase FCA avoiding GC over-treatment. These observations could inform the usual clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Puglisi
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy.
| | - A Rossini
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - I Tabaro
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - S Cannavò
- Department of Human Pathology 'G.Barresi', University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - F Ferrau'
- Department of Human Pathology 'G.Barresi', University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - M Ragonese
- Department of Human Pathology 'G.Barresi', University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G Borretta
- Division of Endocrinology, AO S. Croce E Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - M Pellegrino
- Division of Endocrinology, AO S. Croce E Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - F Dughera
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - A Parisi
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - A Latina
- Division of Endocrinology, AO S. Croce E Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - A Pia
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - M Terzolo
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| | - G Reimondo
- Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hahner S, Ross RJ, Arlt W, Bancos I, Burger-Stritt S, Torpy DJ, Husebye ES, Quinkler M. Adrenal insufficiency. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2021; 7:19. [PMID: 33707469 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-021-00252-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a condition characterized by an absolute or relative deficiency of adrenal cortisol production. Primary AI (PAI) is rare and is caused by direct adrenal failure. Secondary AI (SAI) is more frequent and is caused by diseases affecting the pituitary, whereas in tertiary AI (TAI), the hypothalamus is affected. The most prevalent form is TAI owing to exogenous glucocorticoid use. Symptoms of AI are non-specific, often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and are related to the lack of cortisol, adrenal androgen precursors and aldosterone (especially in PAI). Diagnosis is based on measurement of the adrenal corticosteroid hormones, their regulatory peptide hormones and stimulation tests. The goal of therapy is to establish a hormone replacement regimen that closely mimics the physiological diurnal cortisol secretion pattern, tailored to the patient's daily needs. This Primer provides insights into the epidemiology, mechanisms and management of AI during pregnancy as well as challenges of long-term management. In addition, the importance of identifying life-threatening adrenal emergencies (acute AI and adrenal crisis) is highlighted and strategies for prevention, which include patient education, glucocorticoid emergency cards and injection kits, are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hahner
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany.
| | - Richard J Ross
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute for Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Stephanie Burger-Stritt
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - David J Torpy
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nowotny H, Ahmed SF, Bensing S, Beun JG, Brösamle M, Chifu I, Claahsen van der Grinten H, Clemente M, Falhammar H, Hahner S, Husebye E, Kristensen J, Loli P, Lajic S, Reisch N. Therapy options for adrenal insufficiency and recommendations for the management of adrenal crisis. Endocrine 2021; 71:586-594. [PMID: 33661460 PMCID: PMC7929907 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02649-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a life-threatening condition requiring life-long glucocorticoid (GC) substitution therapy, as well as stress adaptation to prevent adrenal crises. The number of individuals with primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency in Europe is estimated to be 20-50/100.000. A growing number of AI cases are due to side effects of GC treatment used in different treatment strategies for cancer and to immunotherapy in cancer treatment. The benefit of hormone replacement therapy is evident but long-term adverse effects may arise due to the non-physiological GC doses and treatment regimens used. Given multiple GC replacement formulations available comprising short-acting, intermediate, long-acting and novel modified-release hydrocortisone as well as subcutaneous formulations, this review offers a concise summary on the latest therapeutic improvements for treatment of AI and prevention of adrenal crises. As availability of various glucocorticoid formulations and access to expert centers across Europe varies widely, European Reference Networks on rare endocrine conditions aim at harmonizing treatment and ensure access to specialized patient care for individual case-by-case treatment decisions. To improve the availability across Europe to cost effective oral and parenteral formulations of hydrocortisone will save lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Nowotny
- Medizinische Klinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet and Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan G Beun
- European Patient Advocacy Group for Adrenal Diseases, European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo ERN), Endo ERN Coordinating Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- AdrenalNET, Soest, The Netherlands
| | - Manuela Brösamle
- European Patient Advocacy Group for Adrenal Diseases, European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo ERN), Endo ERN Coordinating Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Irina Chifu
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Hedi Claahsen van der Grinten
- Amalia Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Clemente
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Hospital Vall d´Hebron, Autonomous University of Barcelona, CIBERER, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet and Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefanie Hahner
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Eystein Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science and K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, and Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jette Kristensen
- European Patient Advocacy Group for Adrenal Diseases, European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo ERN), Endo ERN Coordinating Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paola Loli
- Division of Endocrinology, San Raffaele Vita-Salute University, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Svetlana Lajic
- Department of Women´s and Children´s Health, Division of Pediatrics, Unit for Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolic Disorders, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Husebye ES, Pearce SH, Krone NP, Kämpe O. Adrenal insufficiency. Lancet 2021; 397:613-629. [PMID: 33484633 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00136-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency can arise from a primary adrenal disorder, secondary to adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency, or by suppression of adrenocorticotropic hormone by exogenous glucocorticoid or opioid medications. Hallmark clinical features are unintentional weight loss, anorexia, postural hypotension, profound fatigue, muscle and abdominal pain, and hyponatraemia. Additionally, patients with primary adrenal insufficiency usually develop skin hyperpigmentation and crave salt. Diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency is usually delayed because the initial presentation is often non-specific; physician awareness must be improved to avoid adrenal crisis. Despite state-of-the-art steroid replacement therapy, reduced quality of life and work capacity, and increased mortality is reported in patients with primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Active and repeated patient education on managing adrenal insufficiency, including advice on how to increase medication during intercurrent illness, medical or dental procedures, and profound stress, is required to prevent adrenal crisis, which occurs in about 50% of patients with adrenal insufficiency after diagnosis. It is good practice for physicians to provide patients with a steroid card, parenteral hydrocortisone, and training for parenteral hydrocortisone administration, in case of vomiting or severe illness. New modes of glucocorticoid delivery could improve the quality of life in some patients with adrenal insufficiency, and further advances in oral and parenteral therapy will probably emerge in the next few years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science and KG Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Simon H Pearce
- Department of Endocrinology, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nils P Krone
- Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Olle Kämpe
- Department of Clinical Science and KG Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Center of Molecular Medicine, and Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sævik ÅB, Wolff AB, Björnsdottir S, Simunkova K, Hynne MS, Dolan DWP, Bratland E, Knappskog PM, Methlie P, Carlsen S, Isaksson M, Bensing S, Kämpe O, Husebye ES, Løvås K, Øksnes M. Potential Transcriptional Biomarkers to Guide Glucocorticoid Replacement in Autoimmune Addison's Disease. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvaa202. [PMID: 33553982 PMCID: PMC7853175 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background No reliable biomarkers exist to guide glucocorticoid (GC) replacement treatment in autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD), leading to overtreatment with alarming and persistent side effects or undertreatment, which could be fatal. Objective To explore changes in gene expression following different GC replacement doses as a means of identifying candidate transcriptional biomarkers to guide GC replacement in AAD. Methods Step 1: Global microarray expression analysis on RNA from whole blood before and after intravenous infusion of 100 mg hydrocortisone (HC) in 10 patients with AAD. In 3 of the most highly upregulated genes, we performed real-time PCR (rt-PCR) to compare gene expression levels before and 3, 4, and 6 hours after the HC infusion. Step 2: Rt-PCR to compare expression levels of 93 GC-regulated genes in normal versus very low morning cortisol levels in 27 patients with AAD. Results Step 1: Two hours after infusion of 100 mg HC, there was a marked increase in FKBP5, MMP9, and DSIPI expression levels. MMP9 and DSIPI expression levels correlated with serum cortisol. Step 2: Expression levels of CEBPB, DDIT4, FKBP5, DSIPI, and VDR were increased and levels of ADARB1, ARIDB5, and POU2F1 decreased in normal versus very low morning cortisol. Normal serum cortisol levels positively correlated with DSIPI, DDIT4, and FKBP5 expression. Conclusions We introduce gene expression as a novel approach to guide GC replacement in AAD. We suggest that gene expression of DSIPI, DDIT4, and FKBP5 are particularly promising candidate biomarkers of GC replacement, followed by MMP9, CEBPB, VDR, ADARB1, ARID5B, and POU2F1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anette B Wolff
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sigridur Björnsdottir
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Eirik Bratland
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per M Knappskog
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Magnus Isaksson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olle Kämpe
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eystein S Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristian Løvås
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Marianne Øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sævik ÅB, Åkerman AK, Methlie P, Quinkler M, Jørgensen AP, Höybye C, Debowska AJ, Nedrebø BG, Dahle AL, Carlsen S, Tomkowicz A, Sollid ST, Nermoen I, Grønning K, Dahlqvist P, Grimnes G, Skov J, Finnes T, Valland SF, Wahlberg J, Holte SE, Simunkova K, Kämpe O, Husebye ES, Bensing S, øksnes M. Residual Corticosteroid Production in Autoimmune Addison Disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5835888. [PMID: 32392298 PMCID: PMC7274491 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Contrary to current dogma, growing evidence suggests that some patients with autoimmune Addison disease (AAD) produce corticosteroids even years after diagnosis. OBJECTIVE To determine frequencies and clinical features of residual corticosteroid production in patients with AAD. DESIGN Two-staged, cross-sectional clinical study in 17 centers (Norway, Sweden, and Germany). Residual glucocorticoid (GC) production was defined as quantifiable serum cortisol and 11-deoxycortisol and residual mineralocorticoid (MC) production as quantifiable serum aldosterone and corticosterone after > 18 hours of medication fasting. Corticosteroids were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Clinical variables included frequency of adrenal crises and quality of life. Peak cortisol response was evaluated by a standard 250 µg cosyntropin test. RESULTS Fifty-eight (30.2%) of 192 patients had residual GC production, more common in men (n = 33; P < 0.002) and in shorter disease duration (median 6 [0-44] vs 13 [0-53] years; P < 0.001). Residual MC production was found in 26 (13.5%) patients and associated with shorter disease duration (median 5.5 [0.5-26.0] vs 13 [0-53] years; P < 0.004), lower fludrocortisone replacement dosage (median 0.075 [0.050-0.120] vs 0.100 [0.028-0.300] mg; P < 0.005), and higher plasma renin concentration (median 179 [22-915] vs 47.5 [0.6-658.0] mU/L; P < 0.001). There was no significant association between residual production and frequency of adrenal crises or quality of life. None had a normal cosyntropin response, but peak cortisol strongly correlated with unstimulated cortisol (r = 0.989; P < 0.001) and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH; r = -0.487; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION In established AAD, one-third of the patients still produce GCs even decades after diagnosis. Residual production is more common in men and in patients with shorter disease duration but is not associated with adrenal crises or quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Åse Bjorvatn Sævik
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anna-Karin Åkerman
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paal Methlie
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Charlotte Höybye
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Bjørn Gunnar Nedrebø
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Anne Lise Dahle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haugesund Hospital, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Siri Carlsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Aneta Tomkowicz
- Department of Medicine, Sørlandet Hospital, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Stina Therese Sollid
- Department of Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Health Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Kaja Grønning
- Department of Endocrinology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Per Dahlqvist
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Guri Grimnes
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Tromsø Endocrine Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jakob Skov
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Trine Finnes
- Section of Endocrinology, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar, Norway
| | | | - Jeanette Wahlberg
- Department of Endocrinology and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | | | - Olle Kämpe
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eystein Sverre Husebye
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Bensing
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne øksnes
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Autoimmune Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Medicine (Solna), Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Marianne Øksnes, University of Bergen, Klinisk Institutt 2, Laboratoriebygget, 8. et., Jonas Lies vei 91B, 5021 Bergen, Norway, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dineen R, Martin-Grace J, Thompson CJ, Sherlock M. The management of glucocorticoid deficiency: Current and future perspectives. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 505:148-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
19
|
van der Sluis RJ, Hoekstra M. Glucocorticoids are active players and therapeutic targets in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 504:110728. [PMID: 31968221 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal-derived glucocorticoids mediate the physiological response to stress. Chronic disturbances in glucocorticoid homeostasis, i.e. in Addison's and Cushing's disease patients, predispose to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Here we review preclinical and clinical findings regarding the relation between changes in plasma glucocorticoid levels and the atherosclerosis extent. It appears that, although the altered glucocorticoid function can in most cases be restored in the different patient groups, current therapies do not necessarily reverse the associated risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In our opinion much attention should therefore be given to the development of a Cushing's disease mouse model that can (1) effectively replicate the effect of hypercortisolemia on atherosclerosis outcome observed in humans and (2) be used to investigate, in a preclinical setting, the relative impact on atherosclerosis susceptibility of already available (e.g. metyrapone) and potentially novel (i.e. SR-BI activity modulators) therapeutic agents that target the adrenal glucocorticoid output.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald J van der Sluis
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Gorlaeus Laboratories, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Menno Hoekstra
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Gorlaeus Laboratories, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|