Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)

Treatment consists of a daily dosage of hydrocortisone. The medication is usually divided into two to three dosages per day. Although prednisone or dexamethasone can also be used if the patient is non-compliant with frequent dosing, this is not as effective. When periods of physiological stress, such as severe illness or surgery occur, the dosage may be increased temporarily. Minor illnesses with Non-Classical CAH usually don’t require any adjustment in medication.

Although CAH is a lifelong disorder for which no cure is available, the missing hormones (cortisol and aldosterone) can be readily replaced, in tablet form.

These medications will be needed every day for life, and need to be given even when the child is perfectly well. There is no need for a special diet in CAH.