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MEDYMOLOGY
ARBOR VITAE FOR HEALTH SCIENCES
Addison's disease
Etymology:
Named from Thomas Addison, M. D., (1793-1860) of London, who first described it.
Definition:
Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare long-term endocrine disorder characterized by inadequate production of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone by the two outer layers of the cells of the adrenal glands (adrenal cortex), causing adrenal insufficiency. Symptoms generally come on slowly and insidiously and may include abdominal pain and gastrointestinal abnormalities, weakness, and weight loss. Darkening of the skin in certain areas may also occur.
Source: "Addison's Disease". NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders). Retrieved 2022-06-01.
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