Case Report - Relative Adrenal Insufficiency in Post-transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder is treated with rapid decrement of immunosuppressive therapy. This cannot be achieved with ease in patients on long-term glucocorticoid therapy, as chronically suppressed adrenal glands may not be capable of mounting adequate response to stress. A 52-year-old Caucasian male presented with fever, orthostatic hypotension, lymphadenopathy and hyponatraemia. Serum cortisol levels were within normal levels with a sub optimal response to stimulation by ACTH. Hyponatraemia and orthostasis responded poorly to fluid restriction, saline and salt repletion but corrected after increasing the steroid dose. The normal baseline cortisol levels represented a stimulated adrenal gland, however, the ACTH stimulation had inadequate response. This sub optimal stimulation and a good response to increased steroids suggest the presence of relative or occult adrenal insufficiency. Relative adrenal insufficiency must be considered in patients who have received prolonged glucococorticoid therapy and have symptoms such as hypotension and/or hyponatraemia. (J Postgrad Med 2003;49:69-71)

Keywords
Relative adrenal insufficiency, Post transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, Hyponatraemia, Orthostatic hypotension, Lymphoma, Occult adrenal insufficiency.