A Case of Bilateral Adrenal Hemorrhage: The Exceptional Cause of Adrenal Insufficiency.

ABSTRACT

Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage is an extremely uncommon and life-threatening condition. It is caused by multiple etiologies, including antiphospholipid syndrome, disseminated histoplasmosis, trauma, severe stress, and granulomatous disease. The authors present a unique case of a 64-year-old alcoholic male, who was admitted after fall and right hip fracture. On day seven of admission, the patient started to develop hypotension, leukocytosis, and tachycardia. CT abdomen was done, which ruled out infectious causes, however, it showed bilateral adrenal hemorrhages. Patient adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test was positive for adrenal insufficiency and was started on hydrocortisone replacement. Our case highlights the fact that adrenal insufficiency after bilateral adrenal hemorrhage can be slow and can manifest as late as seven days and prompt therapy with steroids is warranted to avoid life-threatening adrenal insufficiency.