Self-management in adrenal insufficiency - towards a better understanding.

Patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) require life-long glucocorticoid (GC) replacement treatment and dose adjustment in stress situations to prevent life-threatening adrenal crises. Herein this study we evaluated the patients' healthcare situation and their knowledge on AI, comparing various aspects to a prior survey in 209 physicians. Using a questionnaire, we conducted a comprehensive survey among 33 AI patients who were treated at the endocrine outpatient clinics of two University Hospitals in Germany.

Low Impact of Urinary Cortisol in the Assessment of Hydrocortisone Replacement Therapy.

Hydrocortisone replacement therapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of adrenal insufficiency (AI). While urinary cortisol has been used as a diagnostic tool for AI, it remains unclear whether it is a useful parameter to monitor hydrocortisone replacement therapy. Aim of this study was to evaluate possible differences in cortisol metabolism between adrenal insufficient patients and healthy subjects and to assess the value of urinary cortisol in AI management.

Headache and Depression in Patients with Hypothalamic-pituitary Disorders-etiology and Risk Factors.

Introduction: Headache and depression are common problems in patients with hypothalamic-pituitary disorders (HPD).

Aim: To determine the prevalence of headache and depression in patients with HPD and the specific characteristics in affected individuals in comparison to patients with cardiovascular problems (CD).

Methods: Patients with HPD and CD were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding headache and depression.