Adrenal Basics
This glucocorticoid is the most important product of the adrenal cortex and helps the body adapt to stress.
What is cortisol?
One prevention step is reviewing this before dental treatment.
What is a medical history?
This factor is a major trigger that can precipitate adrenal crisis.
What is stress?
Common general symptoms
What are:
- Weakness/ fatigue
- Anorexia
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Weight loss
During an adrenal crisis, the dental team should first stop treatment and place the patient in this position
What is supine position?
This type of adrenal insufficiency results from progressive destruction of the adrenal cortex and is often autoimmune.
What is primary adrenal insufficiency?
Patients tolerate stress better when dental appointments are scheduled at this time of day.
What is earlier in the day?
Sudden withdrawal of steroid hormones in a patient with adrenal insufficiency can trigger this medical emergency.
What is an adrenal crisis?
High potassium levels seen in primary adrenal insufficiency are called this.
What is hyperkalemia?
During a medical emergency in the dental office, this service should be called for immediate medical assistance.
What is EMS?
This disease is commonly associated with primary adrenal insufficiency.
What is Addison’s disease?
Patients at higher risk may need to take this medication before dental treatment.
What are glucocorticosteroids (premedication)?
Long-term use of this type of medication can suppress adrenal function.
What are glucocorticosteroids?
Darkening of the skin commonly seen in primary adrenal insufficiency.
What is hyperpigmentation?
After a patient is in supine position, clinicians must always assess this.
What is circulation, airway, breathing?
Damage to the pituitary gland causing low ACTH leads to this type of insufficiency.
What is secondary adrenal insufficiency?
Clinical manifestations of adrenocortical insufficiency usually do not appear until this percentage of the adrenal cortex has been destroyed.
What is 90%
Removal of both adrenal glands can lead to adrenal insufficiency through this surgical procedure.
What is bilateral adrenalectomy?
This life-threatening crisis sign is characterized by persistent low blood pressure.
What is refractory hypotension?
In unconscious patients suspected to suffer from chronic adrenal insufficiency, 100 mg of hydrocortisone should be administered through this route over 30 seconds.
What is intravenous?