Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is a family of genetic disorders. This condition affects the production of the corticosteriod cortisol (hydrocortisone) and aldosterone by the adrenal glands. Hydrocortisone is the stress fighting hormone made by the adrenal cortex. The Pituitary Gland, responding to the deficiency, makes more adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH pushes the adrenal cortex to make more cortisone. Unfortunately it also results in the overproduction of some intermediary hormones which have testosterone and estrogen effects. Affecting both males and females, the body and brain are exposed to high levels of masculinizing and feminizing hormones starting while still in their mother's womb. The androgens cause a virilization of the developing body and for girls mean that the clitoris is enlarged and labia can be fused at birth enough to result in confusion of gender identity assignment. That is why ambiguous genitalia need to be properly evaluated at birth.
07/07/2009
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Definition, Pictures, and Symptoms
