Introduction: Treatment of adrenal insufficiency (AI) requires correct lifelong use of glucocorticoids
(GCs) with early dose adjustments to cover the increased demand in stress to avoid
life-threatening emergencies. Objectives: We determine the current specific knowledge of physicians in a convenience sample
on the pathophysiological and clinical aspects of AI in the two regions of North Africa
and the Middle East. Materials and Methods: Participants (n = 96) were invited to complete an electronic questionnaire with various
possible answers on the subject of multiple-choice questions covering physiology,
pharmacology, and clinical management and define respondents' professional profiles.
Results: The present study suggests that in the investigated settings, physicians' knowledge
of physiology and pharmacology GCs, medical replacement strategies in AI, and prevention
of adrenal crisis may be insufficient. Great knowledge gaps were demonstrated. Conclusions: There is a need for continuous structured education and training on AI in both general
medical and endocrine forums.
Keywords
Adrenal crisis - adrenal insufficiency - glucocorticoid replacement therapy - hydrocortisone
- prednisolone