adrenocortical hyperfunction

pathology

Also known as: adrenocortical hyperactivity

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Adrenocortical hyperfunction is a pathology characterized by the excessive secretion of hormones from the adrenal cortex. This can occur due to an abnormality within the adrenal gland itself (primary hyperfunction) or as a compensatory response to other bodily changes (secondary hyperfunction).12

Causes of adrenocortical hyperfunction include:
* Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: An inherited defect in enzyme production necessary for cortisol synthesis, leading to increased androgen production.1
* Adrenal Tumors or Hyperplasia: These can result in excess cortisol (Cushing syndrome), androgen, or aldosterone.1
* Pituitary Tumors: Tumors in the pituitary gland can overproduce adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal glands, leading to conditions like Cushing disease.23

Symptoms vary depending on the hormone in excess. For instance, Cushing syndrome can cause obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and skin changes. Primary aldosteronism leads to high blood pressure and low potassium levels.1

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adrenocorticotropic hormone
…tumour or corticotroph hyperplasia causes adrenocortical hyperfunction, which in turn causes the constellation of symptoms and signs called Cushing syndrome. ACTH deficiency can occur as part of a multiple pituitary hormone deficiency syndrome (panhypopituitarism) or as an isolated deficiency.
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…tumour or corticotroph hyperplasia causes adrenocortical hyperfunction, which in turn causes the constellation of symptoms and signs called Cushing syndrome. ACTH deficiency can occur as part of a multiple pituitary hormone deficiency syndrome (panhypopituitarism) or as an isolated deficiency.
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adrenal gland
Diseases of the adrenal glands
Adrenocortical hyperfunction may be congenital or acquired. Congenital hyperfunction is always due to hyperplasia (enlargement) of both adrenal glands, whereas acquired hyperfunction may be due to either an adrenal tumour or hyperplasia. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, also known as adrenogenital syndrome, is a disorder in which…
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Adrenocortical hyperfunction may be congenital or acquired. Congenital hyperfunction is always due to hyperplasia (enlargement) of both adrenal glands, whereas acquired hyperfunction may be due to either an adrenal tumour or hyperplasia. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, also known as adrenogenital syndrome, is a disorder in which…
Read More