Adrenal Hyperplasia: Understanding Risks & Potential Complications

Adrenal hyperplasia is a congenital endocrine condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol, resulting in a variety of possible disorders. While the majority of people with adrenal hyperplasia can live normal lives, some develop abnormalities that can be life-threatening.

Adrenal Crisis

• Adrenal crisis can be a fatal condition that results from adrenal hyperplasia; signs include a very low level of sodium in the blood, diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, low blood-sugar levels and shock. Those experiencing adrenal crisis require emergency attention or risk dying.

Cardiac Problems

• Often seen in newborns with adrenal hyperplasia, cardiac arrhythmias cause the heart to beat either dangerously fast or too slow, which could result in fainting or confusion.

Tumors

• Boys and men with adrenal hyperplasia often develop tumors in the testes. These tumors, however, are more often benign and are able to be eliminated with several treatments.

Fertility Problems

• While not fatal, about 10 to 15 percent of women with adrenal hyperplasia develop fertility problems and have difficulty conceiving, if they are able to do so at all.

Prevention/Solution

• Doctors can detect congenital adrenal hyperplasia through newborn screening. If detected, treatments are available that can prevent serious complications.