8.3.4 Addison’s Disease
The adrenal gland is so named because it is located above the kidney.The center of the gland is called the medulla and the outer area is called the cortex.While both areas produce hormones，Addison’s disease concerns the hormones produced by the cortex；these hormones are called corticosteroids that enable us to adapt physiologically to stress.The glucocorticoids act on the mechanics of sugar，fat，and protein metabolism.They gear the metabolism towards the preparation of burning rather than storing fuels so as to be ready for a fight or flight situation.The mineralocorticoids influence the excretion of electrolytes（sodium and potassium）in the kidney.
Addison’s disease 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 adrenal glands（adrenal cortex），causing adrenal insufficiency.Symptoms generally come on slowly and insidiously and may include abdominal pain and gastrointestinal abnormalities，weakness，weight loss，and an increase in brown pigmentation.This last symptom is caused by release of a hormone from the pituitary that stimulates the pigment cells（melanocytes）in the skin.Under certain circumstances，an adrenal crisis may occur with low blood pressure，vomiting，lower back pain，and loss of consciousness.Mood changes may also occur.Rapid onset of symptoms indicates acute adrenal failure，which is a serious and emergent condition.
Addison’s disease is generally diagnosed by blood tests，urine tests，and medical imaging.Addison’s disease is treated with replacement of cortical hormones.Lifelong，continuous steroid replacement therapy is required，with regular follow-up treatment and monitoring for other health problems.
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Task 6 Select the best answer according to the text.
1.Mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids are produced by________.
A.adrenal gland
B.adrenal cortex
C.adrenalin
D.renal cortex
2.Addison’s disease is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by________.
A.adrenal hyperactivity
B.adrenal insufficiency
C.overproduction of cortisol
D.overproduction of aldosterone(https://www.daowen.com)
3.In referring to pigmentation，the term melanocytes means________.
A.red blood cells
B.white cells
C.black cells
D.yellow cells
4.The symptoms of Addison’s disease include all of the followings except________.
A.abdominal pain and gastrointestinal abnormalities
B.weakness
C.increase of brown pigmentation
D.weight gain
5.The metabolism of sodium and potassium is influenced by________.
A.mineralocorticoids
B.glucocorticoids
C.thyoid hormone
D.androgen