The androgens and estrogens affect sexual development and reproduction. Addison's disease is a rare disorder that can occur at any age and affects men and women equally. The incidence is 8 in 100,000 people. Risk factors include rare familial autoimmune diseases and other diseases. Cortisol level is low.
Serum sodium is low.
A potassium test may show increased potassium. An abdominal x-ray may show adrenal calcification. An abdominal CT scan may show adrenal calcification or atrophy. Medication may need to be increased during times of stress . Infection, injury, or profuse sweating may cause an adrenal crisis .