Biological Chemistry - Berezov T. T., Korovkin B. F. 1998

Hormones
Adrenal hormones
Hormones of the adrenal cortex

Since the second half of the 19th century, a condition known as bronze disease, or Addison's disease, has been recognized, named after the physician who first described it. The disease is characterized by hyperpigmentation of the Skin, muscular weakness, gastrointestinal disturbances, and severe disruptions in Water-salt, protein, and Carbohydrate METABOLISM. It has been established that the underlying cause of the disease is tubercular damage to the Adrenal Glands, which leads to a deficiency or complete cessation of hormone synthesis in the adrenal cortex.

In Addison's disease, Metabolic Disorders manifest as a sharp drop in the concentration of sodium and chloride ions, an elevated level of potassium ions in the Blood and Muscles, dehydration, and decreased blood glucose levels. Protein metabolism disorders are evidenced by a reduction in Protein Synthesis from Amino Acids and an increased level of residual nitrogen in the blood.

Previously, the disease was considered incurable, and patients generally succumbed to it. Following the identification of its Etiology and the Introduction of Antibiotics and targeted anti-tuberculosis therapies into medical practice, the disease has become treatable.