Adrenal Insufficiency in Prolonged Critical Illness
Author Information
Author(s): Wu Jenn-Yu, Hsu Szu-Chun, Ku Shih-Chi, Ho Chao-Chi, Yu Chong-Jen, Yang Pan-Chyr
Primary Institution: National Taiwan University Hospital
Hypothesis
How do cortisol levels change in critically ill patients who do not improve after treatment?
Conclusion
Most critically ill patients showed decreased cortisol levels, which may lead to worse clinical outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Fifty-seven patients were included in the study.
- 32 patients had cortisol levels between 34 and 15 μg/dl.
- 15 patients had cortisol levels under 15 μg/dl.
- 56.1% of patients died during the study.
- Patients with lower cortisol levels had longer hospital stays.
Takeaway
When people are very sick for a long time, their bodies might not make enough of a hormone called cortisol, which can make them feel worse.
Methodology
This observational cohort study analyzed cortisol levels in critically ill patients who did not improve after treatment.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may exist as the decision to test cortisol levels depended on ICU physicians.
Limitations
The study population was small, and there was no corticotropin test performed.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 79 years, with 33 males and 24 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.004
Confidence Interval
2.4 to 90.0
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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