addison's disease

noun

Meaning

A rare endocrine disorder occurring when the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and, often, aldosterone.

Examples

  • Patients diagnosed with Addison's disease must take daily hormone replacement medication to maintain normal body function.
  • An Addison's disease crisis can be life-threatening if the body does not receive immediate medical intervention.

Synonyms: adrenal insufficiency