What is the relationship between adrenal insufficiency and ataxia?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 11, 2025 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

Relationship between Adrenal Insufficiency and Ataxia

  • Adrenal insufficiency is a condition characterized by an absolute or relative deficiency of adrenal cortisol production 1.
  • The relationship between adrenal insufficiency and ataxia is not well-established in most studies, with ataxia not being a commonly reported symptom of adrenal insufficiency 2, 3, 1, 4.
  • However, one study reported a case of reversible cerebellar ataxia secondary to tuberculous adrenalitis, which improved following treatment with steroids 5.
  • This suggests that adrenal insufficiency may be associated with ataxia in rare cases, particularly when caused by underlying conditions such as tuberculous adrenalitis.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between adrenal insufficiency and ataxia, as the current evidence is limited to a single case report.

References

1
Research

Adrenal insufficiency.

Nature reviews. Disease primers, 2021

2
Research

Adrenal insufficiency.

Journal of clinical pathology, 2022

3
Research

Adrenal insufficiency: Physiology, clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges.

Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry, 2020

4
Research

Adrenal insufficiency.

Lancet (London, England), 2021

Related Questions

Can adrenal insufficiency or chronic use of hydrocortisone (cortisol) cause recurrent priapism?
Can adrenal insufficiency cause heart block in the absence of hyperkalemia?
What are the causes and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease)?
How does adrenal insufficiency affect blood pH?
What is the bone density baseline for patients with adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease)?
What are layperson descriptions of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) and Extrapyramidal (EP) reactions?
Does Cushing's syndrome cause ataxia?
Are there new, implanted very small pacemakers?
Are there new, implantable miniature pacemakers (Cardiac Pacemakers)?
What is the relationship between Vitamin D deficiency and steroid-induced ataxia?
What is immunotherapy for prostate cancer?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.

Ask Question