What is Cortisol?

Subacute thyroiditis is an inflammatory disease of the thyroid gland. Women are affected much more often than men. It usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. Causes The disease may develop after viral infections such as coxsackie virus, influenza, or adenoviral infections. General Symptoms • Fatigue • Weakness • Headache • Muscle pain • Joint pain Stages of the Disease Subacute thyroiditis generally progresses through three stages. Stage 1 – Hyperthyroidism During this phase, the following symptoms are observed: • Palpitations • Weight loss • Nervousness • Tremor • Enlargement of the thyroid gland • Pain in the thyroid area radiating to the neck, occiput, ears, or lower jaw • Sometimes difficulty swallowing • Enlargement of lymph nodes • Fever Over time, hyperthyroidism is replaced by the second (euthyroid) stage, during which the clinical symptoms subside. A third (hypothyroid) stage may also occur, which is usually temporary. The course of the disease lasts from several weeks to a few months. Diagnosis Diagnosis includes: • Laboratory tests – complete blood count, C-reactive protein level, and thyroid hormone tests. • Thyroid ultrasound (US) – the gland appears heterogeneous and hypoechoic. • Thyroid scintigraphy – damaged areas may appear as “cold nodules.” • Fine-needle aspiration biopsy – performed for histological examination. Treatment Subacute thyroiditis usually resolves spontaneously within up to 12 months. • For mild pain symptoms, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used. • In more severe cases, glucocorticoids are prescribed and must be taken only according to a medical regimen. • During the hyperthyroid phase, beta-adrenergic blockers are indicated. • In the hypothyroid phase, replacement therapy with thyroid hormones is rarely necessary. Conclusion The course of the disease is generally favorable. Only in 2–5% of cases can persistent hypothyroidism develop. If such symptoms appear, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist at Dalimed Medical Center.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), or corticotropin, is a peptide hormone composed of 39 amino acids. It is produced in the anterior pituitary gland as part of the precursor molecule proopiomelanocortin (POMC). Through tissue cleavage, ACTH and several other related peptides are formed. ACTH stimulates the synthesis and secretion of glucocorticoids (especially cortisol) by the adrenal cortex. The production of glucocorticoids is regulated by various factors. After stimulation (for example, by physical activity or internal biological mechanisms), the hypothalamus secretes corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH, corticoliberin). CRH acts on the pituitary gland, which in turn synthesizes and secretes ACTH. ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete glucocorticoids. Elevated glucocorticoid concentrations in the blood inhibit the synthesis of CRH and ACTH through negative feedback. Clinical significance of ACTH testing 1) Measuring ACTH levels in plasma helps assess adrenal and pituitary function in cases of cortisol production disorders. 2) A high ACTH level with high cortisol suggests Cushing’s disease (an ACTH-producing pituitary adenoma). 3) A high ACTH level with low cortisol suggests primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease). 4) A low or normal ACTH level with low cortisol suggests secondary or tertiary adrenal insufficiency due to pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction. ACTH that is not produced by the pituitary gland is known as ectopic ACTH. This condition is often associated with small-cell lung carcinoma. In rare cases, ectopic ACTH may arise from thymic tumors, pancreatic adenocarcinomas, or bronchial tumors. These tumors often secrete ACTH precursors (POMC and pro-ACTH).

Biorevitalization is a modern and highly effective method of deep skin hydration and rejuvenation. During the procedure, microinjections of hyaluronic acid are delivered into the dermis (the middle skin layer). This activates natural cell renewal, stimulates collagen and elastin production, improves microcirculation, and restores the skin’s firmness, freshness, and glow. No cream can provide the same deep moisturizing and restorative effect as biorevitalization — that’s why it’s often called the “injection of youth”.How the Procedure Works Before the session, the skin is thoroughly cleansed, and a topical anesthetic may be applied if needed. Then, the doctor injects hyaluronic acid using an ultra-fine needle. Small papules (tiny bumps) may appear after treatment, disappearing within 2–4 days. The procedure takes about 30–60 minutes, depending on the treated area (face, neck, décolleté, hands, knees, etc.). When to Expect Results Visible improvements can be seen within a few days — the skin becomes smoother, more hydrated, and radiant. With each session, the effect builds up: fine lines are reduced, the skin tightens and looks fresher and younger. After a full course, your body starts producing its own hyaluronic acid, and the results last for six months or longer. Who Can Benefit Ages 25–35: Prevents early signs of aging and dryness. Ages 40+: Improves elasticity, combats sagging, and evens skin tone. Ages 50+: Reduces deep wrinkles, restores firmness, and reverses sun damage. Also beneficial for tired or stressed skin, after sun exposure, or following laser and peeling treatments. What Issues It Solves • Fine and deep wrinkles • Dryness and dullness • Loss of firmness and tone • Hyperpigmentation and sun spots • Acne, enlarged pores, uneven texture • Scars and stretch marks Can It Be Combined with Other Treatments? Absolutely! Biorevitalization pairs perfectly with botulinum therapy, chemical peels, laser rejuvenation, and other aesthetic treatments for enhanced results. Safety and Comfort The procedure is completely safe, performed by qualified cosmetic doctors, and suitable for all skin types all year round. At Dalimed medical center, biorevitalization is performed by certified specialists using advanced products and personalized protocols tailored to your skin’s needs. Our doctors will design the ideal rejuvenation plan based on your age, skin condition, and desired outcome.Give your skin health, radiance, and youth — book your biorevitalization session at Dalimed today!

Adrenarche is a natural developmental phase in childhood when the adrenal glands begin to produce increased amounts of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This process usually occurs between the ages of 6 and 8 and precedes true puberty, known as pubarche, by about two years. DHEA is a precursor hormone, meaning that the body converts it into stronger hormones such as androgens (testosterone, androstenedione) and estrogen. These hormones play an important role in initiating puberty, supporting reproductive health, and influencing body growth and development. In the bloodstream, DHEA mostly circulates as DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS), and its presence in blood tests indicates that adrenarche has begun. However, since adrenarche is a normal stage, this test is not routinely ordered for children. What Happens During Adrenarche? During adrenarche, the adrenal cortex—the outer layer of the adrenal gland—undergoes further maturation, especially in its innermost zone (zona reticularis). This development triggers the production of DHEA, which then transforms into androgens responsible for stimulating various glands and bodily changes, such as: • Sebaceous glands: These glands in the skin produce sebum, a protective oily substance that helps retain moisture and contributes to body odor. • Apocrine glands: Located in the underarm and genital regions, these glands remain inactive until activated by adrenal hormones. It’s important to distinguish adrenarche from gonadarche, the stage when the ovaries or testes mature and start producing major sex hormones like estrogen or testosterone. Adrenarche and gonadarche are separate but complementary processes, each marking different aspects of development. Premature Adrenarche Premature adrenarche refers to the early appearance of pubic or underarm hair and body odor—before age 8 in girls or age 9 in boys. In most cases, this early onset is not harmful, but it can sometimes be confused with precocious puberty, which involves early breast or genital development. Common symptoms include: • Pubic and/or underarm hair growth in young children. • Noticeable body odor that may require deodorant use. Children with premature adrenarche are often taller than average for their age. Although the exact cause remains unclear, girls experience it more frequently than boys. To rule out other possible conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hormone-secreting tumors, or external hormone exposure, a pediatrician may recommend physical and laboratory examinations. About 90% of early pubic hair cases are due to premature adrenarche rather than disease. Is It Dangerous or Treatable? Premature adrenarche is generally not dangerous and usually doesn’t require medical treatment. However, research suggests a slightly increased risk of conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and mood disorders later in life. Emotional well-being can also be affected—children who mature earlier than peers may experience embarrassment or social discomfort. There is no medication to reverse or slow adrenarche-related hair growth, and prevention is not typically possible. Some studies associate early adrenarche with factors such as low birth weight, premature birth, or past brain injury. Final Note Adrenarche and pubarche are natural, healthy stages in a child’s growth. While premature adrenarche can be concerning for parents, it’s rarely a sign of illness. If your child shows early signs of puberty or experiences emotional distress related to these changes, consulting a pediatrician or child psychologist can help ensure healthy development and support their confidence during this transition.