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Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome

Meningococcal lesions on the back
Meningococcal lesions on the back 		Adrenal gland hormone secretion
Adrenal gland hormone secretion

Definition

   

Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome is adrenal gland failure due to bleeding into the adrenal gland. It is caused by severe meningococcal infection or other severe, overwhelming infection.

Symptoms include acute adrenal gland insufficiency and profound shock. It is deadly if not treated immediately.


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

   


Symptoms

   


Signs and tests

   


Treatment

   


Support Groups

   


Expectations (prognosis)

   


Complications

   


Calling your health care provider

   


Prevention

   


 
Review Date: 8/16/2007
Reviewd By: Arnold L. Lentnek, MD, Division of Infectious Disease, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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