Adrenal Gland Evaluation & Hormone Disorders

The adrenal glands produce several important hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone and adrenal androgens. Adrenal disorders can involve too little or too much hormone production and require diagnosis based on the specific hormone system involved.

Conditions That May Require Adrenal Evaluation

Evaluation may include recognized disorders such as adrenal insufficiency, cortisol excess, aldosterone disorders and other adrenal conditions when symptoms, examination or laboratory findings raise clinical concern.

Targeted Testing

There is no single “adrenal panel” that diagnoses every adrenal disorder. Testing is selected according to the suspected condition and may include cortisol, ACTH, renin, aldosterone and other studies, with stimulation or suppression testing when appropriate.

Adrenal Insufficiency and Hormone Replacement

Patients with confirmed adrenal insufficiency may require glucocorticoid replacement. Some patients with primary adrenal insufficiency also require mineralocorticoid replacement. Treatment and monitoring depend on the underlying diagnosis.

Learn more about cortisol evaluation.

Written and medically reviewed by David Nazarian, M.D.