Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (kun-JEN-i-tul uh-DRE-nul hi-pur-PLA-zhuh) is a collection of genetic conditions that limit your adrenal glands' ability to make certain vital hormones. In most cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, the adrenal glands don't produce enough cortisol. The production of two other classes of hormones also may be affected, including mineralocorticoids (for example, aldosterone) and androgens (for example, testosterone).

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia can cause problems with normal growth and development in children — including normal development of the genitals. It affects both males and females.

Although congenital adrenal hyperplasia can be life-threatening, most people with it can lead normal lives with proper treatment.