Question

A 45-year-old woman presents with a history of progressive weakness, fatigue, weight loss, nausea and increased skin pigmentation (especially of creases, pressure areas and nipples). Her blood pressure is 120/78 mmHg when supine and 105/52 mmHg when standing. LAboratory findings reveal serum sodium of 120 mEq/L (normal is 135 - 145 mEq/L); potassium level of 5.9 mEq/L (normal is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L); and low plasma cortisol and high ACTH levels.

A. What diagnosis would this woman's clinical features and laboratory findings suggest?

B. Would her diagnosis be classified as a primary or secondary endocrine disorder?

C. What is the significance of her darkened skin?

D. What type of treatment is indicated?

Answer 1

(A) Answer:- Diagnosis is Addison's disease.
- Addison's disease it is an endocrine disorder that occurs in all age groups andcharacterized by skin hyperpigmentation,muscle weakness and fatigue, Weight loss and decreased appetite.

(B) Answer:- Her diagnosis be primary endocrine disorder because primary adrenal insufficiency is when adrenal glands are damaged and are not able to make the cortisol hormones.

(C) Answer:- Hyperpigmentation of skin in Addison's disease is caused by :-
   
       Excess adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)
                        || stimulate
       Melanocytes produce melanin (in skin)

(D)Answer:- treatment of Addison's disease involves taking hormones to replace the insufficient amounts being made by adrenal glands.