Question

A 43-year-old male high-level executive

presents to his physician due to a persistant dizziness
when standing quickly. He also has been
exhibiting chronic fatigue, some muscle weakness,
and an unusual craving for salty foods. The
physician notices that the pateint has a constant
"bronze tan," and blood obtained during the visit
demonstrated normal cholesterol levels but also
hypoglycemia, hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia.
The underlying cause for these problems is
which one of the following?
(A) Adrenal insufficiency
(B) Pituitary insufficiency
(C) Lack of insulin
(D) Lack of glucagon
(E) Lack of GH

Answer 1

The symptoms and lab results indicate Adrenal insufficiency, or Addison's disease, which is treated with cortisol replacement therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The clinical presentation of persistent dizziness when standing quickly, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, an unusual craving for salty foods, a constant "bronze tan," and laboratory findings of hypoglycemia, hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia suggest a diagnosis of Adrenal insufficiency, commonly known as Addison's disease. Addison's disease is characterized by insufficient production of cortisol and sometimes aldosterone, which are crucial hormones produced by the adrenal glands. This hormonal deficiency can lead to the symptoms mentioned, and the condition is typically treated with cortisol replacement therapy.