The glucocorticoids (cortisol) maintain glucose regulation, suppress the immune response, and provide for the response to stress. Cortisol production is regulated by a small gland at the base of the brain called the pituitary gland. The mineralocorticoids (aldosterone) regulate balance of the blood salts sodium and potassium. Cortisol and aldosterone are essential for life.

Acute adrenal crisis is a medical emergency caused by a lack of cortisol. Patients may experience light headedness or dizziness, weakness, sweating, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, or even loss of consciousness. Adrenal crisis occurs in the setting of adrenal gland destruction (Addison's disease, primary adrenal insufficiency), pituitary gland injury (secondary adrenal insufficiency), or known adrenal insufficiency that is not adequately treated.

Risk factors for adrenal crisis include physical stress such as infection, trauma or surgery, adrenal gland or pituitary gland injury, and premature termination of treatment with steroids such as prednisone or hydrocortisone. New cases of adrenal insufficiency are diagnosed in 1 out of 200,000 people each year.

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