Which finding is consistent with an Addisonian crisis?

Which finding is consistent with an Addisonian crisis?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Weight gain
• C. Hypotension
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (C)

Abnormal drop in blood pressure is a hallmark of an Addisonian crisis. When the adrenal cortex sharply lacks cortisol and aldosterone, the body loses the ability to retain sodium and water (salt wasting), leading to severe volume depletion. Cortisol deficiency also reduces vascular responsiveness to catecholamines, so vessels don’t constrict as they should. Together, these changes cause marked hypotension and can progress to shock if not treated promptly. Other signs listed don’t fit this crisis. Weight gain and hypertension suggest excess aldosterone or cortisol effects, not their deficiency. Hyperglycemia can occur in stress, but in an Addisonian crisis the lack of cortisol often leads to hypoglycemia due to impaired gluconeogenesis. The combination of hypotension with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances (hyponatremia, hyperkalemia) is characteristic.

Abnormal drop in blood pressure is a hallmark of an Addisonian crisis. When the adrenal cortex sharply lacks cortisol and aldosterone, the body loses the ability to retain sodium and water (salt wasting), leading to severe volume depletion. Cortisol deficiency also reduces vascular responsiveness to catecholamines, so vessels don’t constrict as they should. Together, these changes cause marked hypotension and can progress to shock if not treated promptly.

Other signs listed don’t fit this crisis. Weight gain and hypertension suggest excess aldosterone or cortisol effects, not their deficiency. Hyperglycemia can occur in stress, but in an Addisonian crisis the lack of cortisol often leads to hypoglycemia due to impaired gluconeogenesis. The combination of hypotension with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances (hyponatremia, hyperkalemia) is characteristic.