CASE REPORT
Chronic adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease) – diagnostic obstacles, problems of the patient and his or her family
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1
Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical College, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Poland
2
Students’ Scientific Interest Group, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical College, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Poland
Submission date: 2025-11-11
Final revision date: 2026-01-04
Acceptance date: 2026-01-16
Publication date: 2026-02-19
Corresponding author
Anna Lidia Krzentowska
Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Medical College, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Kraków, Poland
Medicine and Public Health 2025;3(2):23-30
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ABSTRACT
Addison’s disease (AD) is a relatively uncommon illness presented by decreased adrenal production of adrenocortical hormones - mainly glucocorticoids. We present a case of a patient who had symptoms of chronic fatigue, depression that made it difficult for her to carry out everyday household activities. In basic laboratory tests, they mainly noted low sodium (Na), increased potassium (K) and low fasting glucose concentration. The patient’s informed consent was obtained for the presentation of anonymised laboratory, clinical and imaging data. On the basis of the clinical picture and hormonal tests, Addison’s disease was confirmed. Significant clinical improvement was observed following the addition of hydrocortisone to the treatment regimen. Advances in optimizing treatment for patients with Addison’s disease have enabled them to lead normal lives. However, it is important to continuously educate patients and healthcare professionals about the ever-present threat of adrenal crisis.