Stress-induced urgent conditions in endocrinology

Abstract

The literature review deals with the influence of chronic stress on the functioning of the endocrine system. The most significant pathological conditions induced by chronic stress are decompensation of carbohydrate metabolism, disorders of the thyroid gland, reproductive system, depressive disorders, electrolyte disorders. The significance of these pathologies is determined by a pronounced decrease in the quality of life, the occurrence of severe complications, and an increase in mortality. The development of hyperglycemia during the acute period of the disease is an established connection between the stress system and glucose homeostasis, which is confirmed by the development of stress hyperglycemia and increased morbidity. Glucocorticoids have a contrainsular effect, and the significance of their impact on carbohydrate metabolism is due to the pleiotropic action: induction of insulin resistance, stimulation of gluconeogenesis, increase in the blood content of glucagon due to dysregulation of its synthesis and secretion. The effects of stress on the thyroid gland are determined by its duration, characterized by the activation of the pituitary-thyroid system in the acute period and its suppression during long-term and chronic stress. The contribution of the stress component and glucocorticoid deficiency to the development of autoimmune thyroid diseases due to the suppression of cellular and strengthening of humoral immunity is discussed. Under conditions of psychological stress, the development of hypothyroidism was noted in emigrants with anxiety-depressive syndrome and insomnia, as evidenced by a decrease in the concentration of thyroid hormones. A decreased thyroid status in these patients is associated with the severity of chronic stress. Research data show that chronic stress can significantly change a person’s thyroid status, leading to the development of triiodothyronine deficiency syndrome and an increase in the production of inactive reverse triiodothyronine, inducing the development of hypothyroidism. It is possible that the pronounced growth of subclinical forms of hypothyroidism, noted in many countries of the world, is a consequence of chronic stress. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is involved in the formation of stress-induced reactions almost immediately after exposure to the stressor. Stress-induced changes in the endocrine system arise and develop in close connection, forming a vicious circle of pathological changes and emergencies.