Definition of Addison disease

Addison disease

Addison's disease refers to the prolonged inadequate functioning of the adrenal cortex. Medically, this is known as chronic adrenal insufficiency. Various factors can harm the adrenal glands, including physical damage, inflammation, and the destruction of cells responsible for producing ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), which normally stimulates the adrenal glands. Symptoms of Addison's disease include skin darkening, fatigue, and weakness. It is believed that U.S. President John F. Kennedy had this condition. The disease was named after Thomas Addison, a British physician who first identified adrenal insufficiency in 1849. At that time, tuberculosis (TB) caused 70-90% of the cases. With advancements in TB treatment, the number of cases due to adrenal TB has significantly decreased, now representing about 20% of primary adrenal insufficiency cases in developed nations.

Medical Definition & Meaning

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

CPR Certification Labs has multiple classes available every day

Choose a course

What the AHA CPR Certification Course Includes

Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

Our technology delivers immediate, actionable feedback that refines your skills in real time.

Proper Use of AED Devices for All Age Groups

Understand how to safely and effectively operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants.

Airway Obstruction Relief and Heimlich Maneuver

Learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and clear airway obstructions caused by choking in both adults and infants.

Team-Based Multi-Rescuer CPR Techniques

Gain experience working as part of a team when more than one rescuer is available during an emergency.

Official American Heart Association CPR E-Card

Receive your AHA CPR Certification E-Card on the same day you complete the class and pass the exam.

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Local news