Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufciency, is a rare yet life-threatening condition resulting from the inadequate production of cortisol and aldosterone by the adrenal glands. This disorder is primarily due to autoimmune destruction of adrenal tissue, though other etiologies like infections, genetic mutations, and cancer metastasis may contribute. Patients with Addison's disease typically present with nonspecic symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, hypotension, and hyperpigmentation, which can delay diagnosis. Timely diagnosis is essential to prevent adrenal crises, which require immediate corticosteroid administration. The gold standard for diagnosis involves an ACTH stimulation test, supplemented by basal cortisol measurements. Management centers on lifelong glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid replacement, with dosage adjustments during physical stress to prevent adrenal crises. This review discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic process, and management strategies, aiming to improve early recognition and treatment of Addison's disease.
