What happens if Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is not treated?

What happens if Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is not treated?

However, if the infant has untreated congenital adrenal hyperplasia, they will produce excessive levels of male hormones such as testosterone from their adrenal glands. This will result in rapid growth of both boys and girls, with the additional effect of virilisation (development of male characteristics) of girls.

Does CAH affect the immune system?

A child with CAH is missing an enzyme that the adrenal gland uses to produce certain hormones. Without these hormones, the patient has no means to regulate their metabolism, immune system, blood pressure and other vital functions.

Can CAH cause depression?

The lifetime prevalence of depression was 33.5\% in CAH patients vs 26.1\% in control patients, a prevalence ratio of 1.28 (95\% CI 1.13–1.45, Table 3).

Can someone with CAH have children?

With the recommended hormone treatment and close follow-up with a pediatric endocrinologist, children with CAH can grow and develop like other children. In adulthood, most will be able to have children of their own.

How do you manage congenital adrenal hyperplasia?

Classic CAH is treated with steroids that replace the low hormones.

1. Infants and children usually take a form of cortisol called hydrocortisone.
2. Adults take hydrocortisone, prednisone, or dexamethasone, which also replace cortisol.

Is CAH an autoimmune disorder?

Autoimmune disorders in individuals with CAH have also been reported in a large study of individuals with different forms of disorders of sex development (DSD) [6].

How many types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia are there?

There are two main types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia—classic and nonclassic. The majority of children with either type of the condition don’t produce enough 21-hydroxylase, an enzyme that helps the adrenal glands make cortisol and aldosterone.

What is the prognosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?

The long-term outlook ( prognosis) for people with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is usually good. With lifelong treatment, affected people typically have good health and normal lifespans. [1] However, problems with psychological adjustment are common, particularly in people with genital abnormalities.

Can congenital adrenal hyperplasia cause depression?

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia depression is quite common due not only to the hormonal imbalances cause by the condition, but the physical differences CAH may cause, especially in females. Including psychological treatment alongside medication, surgery and other options is imperative in the CAH journey.

Is there a test for congenital adrenal hyperplasia?

Diagnosis Diagnosis. Yes, genetic testing is available for many of the genes known to cause congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Carrier testing for at-risk relatives and prenatal testing are possible if the disease-causing mutations in the family are known.

What causes congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia?

Congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia is caused by mutations in the STAR gene Most of these genes encode enzymes that the adrenal glands need to make one or more hormones. The adrenal glands are cone-shaped organs that sit on top of the kidneys and are responsible for releasing various types of hormones that the body needs to function.