Adrenal insufficiency in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-an underestimated problem

Abstract

Introduction: Adrenal insufficiency is a serious complication of AIDS. Usually the integrity of HPA (Hypothalamo pituitary) axis is assessed by measuring cortisol response to 250μg of ACTH. Recent studies have shown that lower ACTH dose increases the sensitivity of the procedure. In the present study we have tried to estimate prevelance of adrenal insufficiency using low dose ACTH test (1μg). Primary objective: To estimate the prevelance of adrenal insufficiency in AIDS patients using low dose ACTH test. Research design and methods: 50 patients with confirmed diagnosis of HIV were included in the study. History and physical examination were recorded. Lab investigations included Cd4 count, serum cortisol and low dose acth stimulation test. Data of patients with adrenal insufficiency (GROUP 1) was compared with those without adrenal dysfunction (GROUP 2). Stastical analysis was done using appropriate tests. Results: 37/50 (74%) of study subjects had adrenal insufficiency. Basal cortisol in (GROUP 1) and (GROUP 2) was 10.09μg/dl and 21.95μg/dl (P < .05). Blood glucose, serum sodium was low and serum potassium, eosinophil counts were high in (GROUP 1) when compared to (GROUP2). Conclusion: Adrenal insufficiency in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is a common problem in clinical practice.