Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Description of Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is used to describe a group of inherited disrders that affect your adrenal glands. It majorly exhibits two types: severe (classic) CAH and mild (non-classic) CAH. In milder forms, it can cause early appearance of pubic hairs in both males and females, rapid growth during childhood, and early and severe acne on skin.

Dr. Syeda AafiaMBA, BDS

Dr. Rajeev SharmaMBA, MBBS

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Last updated on: 08 May 2026 | 12:10 PM (IST)

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Frequently Asked Questions about Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Q. Why does CAH cause excess hair growth or irregular periods?

CAH leads to higher levels of male hormones (androgens) in the body. This can cause excess hair growth, acne, and disrupt normal menstrual cycles, leading to irregular or missed periods in females.

Q. What precautions should people with CAH take during illness or stress?

During illness, injury, or major stress, the body needs more cortisol than usual. People with CAH may need “stress-dose” steroids to prevent adrenal crisis and should seek medical advice early.

Q. Do I need to stress-dose before vaccinations?

Routine vaccinations are safe in children with CAH and do not usually need stress dosing. However, if your child develops a fever after vaccination, stress-dose steroids may be needed until the fever settles.

Q. Do people with CAH need lifelong medication?

Yes, most people with classic CAH need lifelong hormone replacement therapy. This helps maintain normal hormone levels, prevent complications, and support healthy growth and development.

Q. Are people with CAH at increased risk for osteoporosis?

Long-term steroid use in CAH may reduce bone strength and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Regular bone density checks may be advised, especially in adults or those on higher steroid doses. A healthy lifestyle and medical follow-up can help protect bone health.