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Chapter 5 - Disorders of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis

Cushing’s Syndrome and Beyond

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 October 2021

By
Aoife M. Egan  and
Anne M. Doherty
Edited by
Anne M. Doherty ,
Aoife M. Egan  and
Sean Dinneen
Anne M. Doherty
Affiliation:
University College Dublin
Aoife M. Egan
Affiliation:
Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Mayo Clinic, Minnesota, USA
Sean Dinneen
Affiliation:
School of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Galway
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Summary

The primary endocrine effectors of the stress response are located in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland. These structures are referred to as the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. In the setting of stress, corticotrophin-releasing factor induces the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone, which stimulates the synthesis and secretion of glucocorticoids from the adrenal gland. Glucocorticoids exert a wide range of effects and can influence cardiovascular function, immunity and inflammation, metabolism, reproduction and fluid volume. An important target organ is the brain, where glucocorticoids can affect neuronal differentiation and excitability, behavioral reactivity, mood and cognition. This regulatory system works in conjunction with the sympatho-adrenal medullary system, which releases catecholamines, including noradrenaline and adrenaline. These systems are crucial for dealing with both physiological and psychological stress and restoring our steady state. Inappropriate regulation of the stress response has been linked to a wide array of pathologies, including hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis and psychological disorders. In this chapter, we will focus on disorders of the HPA axis and their effects on mental health.

Keywords

HPA axisdepressionCushing’sAddison’smental health
Type
Chapter
Information
Mental Health, Diabetes and Endocrinology , pp. 43 - 55
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2021

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