Autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type II: After adrenal crisis

Abstract

Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndromes (APS) are rare autoimmune endocrinopathies, characterized by the association of two or more organ-specific disorders. Type II Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndromes (APS II) comprises the association of Addison’s disease with thyroid autoimmune disease and/or type 1 diabetes mellitus. Although the classic presentation is symptomatic hypotension, it can manifest as an adrenal crisis - a life-threatening condition. We report a case of a 41-year-old woman with prolonged asthenia, cutaneous hyperpigmentation and symptomatic hypotension refractory to intravenous fluids. APS II was diagnosed with a presentation of an Addisonian crisis, resolved after the onset of hydrocortisone.