Waterhouse-Friedrichsen Syndrome | Adrenal gland

Waterhouse-Friedrichsen Syndrome

Waterhouse-Friedrichsen syndrome is an acute failure of the adrenal glands following a massive infection with meningococcus, Haemophilus influenzae or pneumococcus. A consumption coagulopathy occurs: excessive blood clotting with clot formation consumes the factors required for blood coagulation, leading to heavy bleeding, especially in the adrenal gland. Since the adrenal glands are no longer functional, immediate administration of hydrocortisone and catecholamines is essential.