Final answer:
The universal characteristic finding of Addison's disease is hyperpigmentation of the skin, not the other symptoms like increased blood pressure. The correct answer is option B).
Step-by-step explanation:
A characteristic universal finding of Addison's disease is hyperpigmentation of the skin. Addison's disease, or adrenal insufficiency, leads to the reduced production of cortisol and potentially mineralocorticoids from the adrenal gland.
This condition often arises from an autoimmune disorder that triggers an attack against the adrenal cortex or from other causes such as infections or a decreased output of ACTH due to a pituitary tumor. The hallmark of Addison's disease is bronzing or hyperpigmentation of the skin, along with symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.
The other options (A, C, and D) are associated with Cushing's syndrome, which is characterized by the excessive production of cortisol, leading to symptoms like high blood pressure, rapid weight gain, and specific changes in body fat distribution.