Question

Hyper-pigmentation is a result of increased _____. This characteristic is a known symptom for_______

A. ACTH, primary Addison's
B. POMC, primary cushing's
C. POMC, primary Addison's
D. POMC, secondary addison's

Answer 1

Hyper-pigmentation is associated with increased ACTH and is a symptom of primary Addison's disease, where the adrenal glands produce insufficient steroid hormones.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hyper-pigmentation is a result of increased ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). This is a characteristic symptom of primary Addison's disease. The production of ACTH often leads to an increase in the production of melanin in the skin resulting in a darker complexion. In primary Addison's disease, the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones due to damage to the adrenal cortex, which leads to an overproduction of ACTH by the pituitary gland to stimulate the underactive adrenal glands. Hyperpigmentation occurs because ACTH shares a precursor with melanocyte-stimulating hormones, which can lead to an increase in melanin.