Other and unspecified adrenocortical insufficiency
ICD-10 E27.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other and unspecified adrenocortical insufficiency.
Adrenocortical insufficiency refers to a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones, particularly cortisol. This insufficiency can be primary, secondary, or tertiary, depending on the underlying cause. Primary adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease, occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged, often due to autoimmune processes, infections, or tumors. Secondary adrenal insufficiency arises from inadequate stimulation of the adrenal glands by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland, which can occur due to pituitary disorders or prolonged use of corticosteroids. Tertiary adrenal insufficiency is related to hypothalamic dysfunction. Symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency may include fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, hyperpigmentation of the skin, and electrolyte imbalances. Diagnosis typically involves hormonal assays, imaging studies, and stimulation tests to evaluate adrenal function. Treatment focuses on hormone replacement therapy and addressing the underlying cause of the insufficiency.
Detailed hormonal assay results, imaging studies, and clinical symptoms must be documented.
Patients presenting with fatigue, weight loss, and hypotension; patients with known autoimmune disorders.
Endocrinologists must ensure that all relevant lab results are included in the documentation to support the diagnosis.
Comprehensive patient history and physical examination findings, including vital signs and symptomatology.
Patients with unexplained fatigue, electrolyte imbalances, or acute adrenal crisis.
Internal medicine physicians should document any differential diagnoses considered and the rationale for the final diagnosis.
Used to evaluate adrenal function in patients suspected of adrenal insufficiency.
Document the reason for the test and any relevant clinical findings.
Endocrinologists should ensure that the test results are interpreted in the context of the patient's overall clinical picture.
Common symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, hyperpigmentation, and electrolyte imbalances. Patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Diagnosis typically involves measuring serum cortisol levels, conducting an ACTH stimulation test, and possibly imaging studies to assess adrenal gland structure.
Treatment usually involves hormone replacement therapy with glucocorticoids and, in some cases, mineralocorticoids, depending on the specific type of insufficiency.
