Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a family of inherited disorders affecting the adrenal glands. The most common form is 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD), which is inherited in severe or mild forms. The severe form, called classical CAH, is usually detected in the newborn period or in early childhood. The milder form, called non-classical CAH (NCAH), may cause symptoms at anytime from infancy through adulthood. NCAH is a much more common disorder than classical CAH. Fortunately, CAH can be managed with medication and, with adequate care, affected individuals go on to live normal lives.
Sources
CARES Foundation
