Drug-induced adrenocortical insufficiency
ICD-10 E27.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of drug-induced adrenocortical insufficiency.
Drug-induced adrenocortical insufficiency is a condition characterized by the inadequate production of adrenal hormones due to the effects of certain medications. This condition can arise from the use of glucocorticoids, which, when administered over a prolonged period, can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The adrenal glands, located atop the kidneys, are responsible for producing essential hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenal androgens. When these glands are suppressed, patients may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, weight loss, and hypotension. The condition can be acute or chronic, depending on the duration and dosage of the offending drug. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough patient history, including medication review, and may require laboratory tests to assess cortisol levels. Management often includes tapering the offending medication and, in some cases, administering glucocorticoid replacement therapy to restore normal hormone levels. Understanding the interplay between drug therapy and adrenal function is crucial for healthcare providers to prevent and manage this potentially serious condition.
Detailed medication history, laboratory results, and clinical symptoms.
Patients presenting with fatigue, weight loss, and hypotension after starting glucocorticoids.
Endocrinologists must ensure that all relevant medications are documented to establish a clear link to adrenal insufficiency.
Comprehensive patient history including medication review and symptom assessment.
Patients with chronic conditions requiring long-term steroid therapy presenting with signs of adrenal insufficiency.
Internal medicine practitioners should be vigilant about the potential for drug-induced conditions in patients on chronic steroid therapy.
Used to confirm adrenal insufficiency in patients with a history of glucocorticoid use.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant clinical findings.
Endocrinologists should ensure that the test results are correlated with clinical symptoms.
Common medications include glucocorticoids such as prednisone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone. Long-term use or abrupt cessation can lead to adrenal insufficiency.
