Overview

Type of disease: Rare conditions

Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2 is an autoimmune disorder that affects many hormone-producing (endocrine) glands. This condition is characterized by the presence of Addison's disease along with autoimmune thyroid disease and/or type 1 diabetes. Affected individuals may also have problems with other endocrine glands. Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2 is diagnosed in adulthood, typically around age 30. This condition occurs more often in women than men, and treatment primarily involves hormone replacement therapy. The cause of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2 is unknown, although it may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), supported by ORDR-NCATS and NHGRI.