Final answer:
In adrenocortical insufficiency, commonly known as Addison's disease, decreased cortisol levels and decreased aldosterone levels are typically observed. These deficiencies can lead to symptoms like low blood pressure, fatigue, and salt cravings.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering lab values in a patient with adrenocortical insufficiency, we typically expect to see decreased cortisol levels. This condition, known as Addison's disease or adrenal insufficiency, occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of cortisol, which is a vital hormone for stress response, maintaining blood pressure, and metabolic functions. Another hormone that is often found in lower than normal levels is aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid that helps regulate sodium and potassium balance in the body. Symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency might include low blood pressure, fatigue, muscle weakness, and cravings for salty foods due to a loss of sodium and the rise in potassium levels (hyperkalemia).