Causes Of Adrenal Insufficiency

Cancer

As with tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus, and other infections, cancer can affect the adrenal glands and, with enough damage, may lead to adrenal insufficiency. This condition occurs when abnormal cells either travel to or from within the adrenal glands and then multiply. This condition may begin within the glands themselves, or may migrate from the kidneys, stomach, lymphoma, or even skin. Typically found in the outer layer, or adrenal cortex, of the glands, this condition usually manifests as a tumor. Cancerous tumors found on this outer layer of the adrenal gland are considered to be adrenal cortical carcinomas, while non-cancerous tumors found in the same area are considered to be benign adenomas. The cancerous adrenal cortical carcinomas are generally bigger than their non-cancerous counterparts, and may grow so large that they press on other organs. Generally, tumors are found on only one of the two adrenal glands, although they can be found on both. Regardless of the tumor type, abnormal cell growth can disrupt or impede the growth of proper adrenal cells, damaging the adrenal cortex and dramatically reducing gland function.