The adrenal cortex makes two important hormones that help the body function properly: cortisol and aldosterone. When the adrenal cortex becomes damaged, it can lead to a condition called Addison's disease. In humans, this causes symptoms such as chronic fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and low blood pressure.
In humans, Addison's disease is most commonly caused by an autoimmune disease. Other causes include tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and amyloidosis. Although there is no cure, symptoms can be controlled, and most people have a normal, healthy life.
(Click Addison's Disease for information on how this condition is diagnosed, treatment options, possible complications, and more.)
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