Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

• January 5, 2021

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) refers to a team of genetic syndromes affecting the adrenal glands, a pair of walnut-sized organs above the kidneys. Adrenal glands produce significant hormones, such as:
 
Cortisol, which controls the response of the body to illness or stress, Mineral corticosteroids, such as aldosterone, which enforce sodium and potassium levels, Androgens, such as testosterone, are male sex hormones, A genetic problem in people with CAH results in a lack of one of the enzymes needed to make these hormone levels, Although there is no remedy for appropriate treatment, most people who have congenital adrenal hyperplasia can result normal lives.
 
There are two main types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia:

Classic CAH. This form is rarer and is usually detected in childhood. Approximately two-thirds of persons with classic CAH have what is known as the salt-losing form, while one-third have what is referred to as the simple-virilizing form.
 
Non-classic CAH. This form is milder and more prevalent, and may not be evident until childhood or initial adulthood.