Diagnosing Addison's Disease : A Guide For GPs

Our leaflet, 'Diagnosing Addison's: a guide for GPs', has been developed for the ADSHG by our Clinical Advisory Panel (CAP), led by Professor John Wass. It outlines the role of the GP in the early detection of Addison's.

This leaflet covers the following information:

Symptoms and clinical signs
GP role in urgent admissions
GP role in patient screening
Primary care investigations
Referral to a secondary specialist
The differential diagnosis
Associated endocrine conditions
Potential pitfalls
Worst outcomes if missed
Epidemiology
Key questions for the GP
GP follow-up

Download full colour version (Opens in new window 140Kb)

Download printer friendly version (Opens in new window 617kb)

(Black and White version that includes new accessibility improvements to support people with visual impairments).

The Addison’s Clinical Advisory Panel (CAP) is a group of endocrinologists with an interest in adrenal medicine. It advises the ADSHG on medical matters. This leaflet was authored by: Prof John Wass Churchill Hospital, Oxford; Dr Trevor Howlett Leicester Royal Infirmary; Prof Wiebke Arlt University Hospital, Birmingham; Prof Simon Pearce Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle; Prof John Monson St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London.

Further diagnosis resources

Consultation Reference Guide: the Society for Endocrinology and ADSHG Consultation Reference Guide is a useful resource for diagnosis (what tests to undergo and what they mean) as well as for follow up reviews, treatment planning and monitoring. This Guide is intended for general guidance and may not apply to all patients or local services so please check and discuss with your endocrine team.
YouTube video: watch our 2 minute video 'Diagnosis & Management of Addison's Disease' made in collaboration with CoMCS
What is Addison's Disease webpage

If you're a healthcare professional looking to learn more about Addison's and adrenal insufficiency, visit our medics page for more resources to support you and your patients.

Updated July 2020

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