When hidden steroids cause harm: Secondary adrenal insufficiency from unrecognised exposure.

INTRODUCTION

Adrenal insufficiency is a life-threatening condition that often presents with non-specific symptoms, complicating diagnosis in elderly patients.

CASE REPORT: We report a case of a 77-year-old man with diabetes mellitus, hypertension and a history of cerebrovascular accident who presented with nausea, vomiting, weight loss and persistent giddiness. Laboratory tests revealed hyponatraemia and low serum osmolality. Further endocrine evaluation showed low morning cortisol, a suboptimal response to the short Synacthen test and suppressed adrenocorticotropic hormone levels confirming secondary adrenal insufficiency. The patient later disclosed recent use of a traditional Chinese medicine suggesting possible hidden glucocorticoid exposure and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. He improved after initiation of hydrocortisone replacement and discontinuation of the suspected products.

DISCUSSION: This case emphasises the need for greater awareness of the potential adulteration of traditional Chinese medicines with glucocorticoids. It also highlights the critical role of laboratory testing in diagnosing adrenal insufficiency, detecting hidden adulterants and recognising the limitations of immunoassays in interpreting adrenal function tests.