The Hair Loss Encyclopedia
genetic disorder impairing adrenal hormone production, causing excess androgens
21-hydroxylase deficiency, also known as 21-OHD, is a genetic disorder that affects the adrenal glands' ability to produce certain hormones, specifically cortisol and aldosterone. This enzyme deficiency leads to an overproduction of androgens, which can cause symptoms such as ambiguous genitalia in newborns, early puberty, and severe salt-wasting crises.