Final answer:
A physical characteristic of Addison's disease is B) fatigue, weight loss, and bronze skin pigmentation. Addison's disease involves insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone from the adrenal glands, leading to various symptoms including skin hyperpigmentation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Addison's Disease
A physical characteristic of Addison's disease is fatigue, weight loss, and bronze skin pigmentation. Addison's disease, also known as adrenal insufficiency, is caused by the hyposecretion of adrenal hormones like cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone. The disease leads to symptoms such as extreme weakness, low blood pressure, and notable skin changes, including areas of darkened skin, especially in regions exposed to the sun or in creases. Treatment typically consists of lifelong replacement hormone therapy.
It is important to distinguish Addison's disease from Cushing's syndrome, which is due to hypersecretion of cortisol, leading to symptoms like the rapid weight gain in the face and trunk (moon face and buffalo hump, respectively), high blood pressure, and high blood glucose levels.