congenital adrenal hyperplasia Sexual Disorder
congenital adrenal hyperplasia Information
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is caused by a missing enzyme needed for the body to function properly causing overproduction of male hormones.
The term congenital adrenal hyperplasia encompasses several autosomal recessive disorders that have in common complete or partial deficiency of an enzyme involved in cortisol or aldosterone synthesis.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia was once considered a rare inherited disorder with severe manifestations.
A person with CAH will not be able to produce several vital hormones known as corticosteriods.
Causes of congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Severe forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia are potentially fatal if unrecognized and untreated because of the severe cortisol and aldosterone deficiencies that result in salt wasting, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, and hypotension.
Symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Some symptoms of CAH are -
- disordered genital development in utero
- lack of development of secondary sexual characteristics
- hypertension
- dehydration
- hyponatremia
- hyperkalemia
congenital adrenal hyperplasia Treatment and Medication
Diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyerplasia in fetuses that are at risk for congenital adrenal hyperplasia can be determined using human leukocyte antigen haplotype or by demonstration of excess cortisol precursors in amniotic fluid.
Endocrinologist must always be your primary source for medical information, and should always be consulted regarding any medical questions. Treatment includes carefully monitored hormone replacement therapy.
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