Other names: Adrenal crisis, acute; Adrenal failure; Adrenal insufficiency, exogenous
Adrenal insufficiency is a disorder characterized by underactive adrenal glands and an insufficient production of the hormones cortisol and, sometimes, aldosterone. The adrenal glands are small organs located on top of each kidney. They consist of an inner layer called the medulla and an outer layer called the adrenal cortex. In the body, the hypothalamus, the pituitary glands, and the adrenal glands work together to produce hormones that control many body systems. If any part of their signaling and feedback system is not working it can cause major disruptions and illness within the body.
