Endogenous Hypercortisolism in a Patient With Addison’s Disease: An Unusual Case of Adrenal Cortical Adenoma
March 2026
in “
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
”
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Studysummary In this case report, a rare instance of ACTH-independent hypercortisolism in a patient with long-standing Addison's disease led to the discovery of an adrenal cortical adenoma, successfully treated with adrenalectomy, underscoring the importance of considering functional adrenal tumors in such atypical biochemical scenarios.
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This case report details a rare instance of ACTH-independent endogenous hypercortisolism in a 64-year-old woman with long-standing Addison’s disease. Despite discontinuing glucocorticoid therapy, the patient exhibited symptoms of hypercortisolism, leading to the discovery of a left adrenal mass. A laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed, and histopathology confirmed an adrenal cortical adenoma. The patient resumed hydrocortisone therapy post-surgery and was discharged in stable condition. The study concludes that functional adrenal tumors should be considered in Addison’s disease when biochemical results are atypical, and adrenalectomy provides definitive management for ACTH-independent hypercortisolism.
