Which condition is characterized by hypoadrenalism?

Which condition is characterized by hypoadrenalism?

• A. Cushing's syndrome
• B. Addison's disease
• C. Grave's disease
• D. Pheochromocytoma

Answer: (B)

Hypoadrenalism, also known as adrenal insufficiency, occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. Addison's disease is the primary condition that exemplifies this state. In Addison’s disease, there is a progressive destruction of the adrenal glands, leading to insufficient hormone production. Individuals with Addison’s disease typically present with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and skin changes due to lack of cortisol. In contrast, conditions like Cushing's syndrome are characterized by hypercortisolism, which results from excessive levels of cortisol in the body, often leading to symptoms such as weight gain and high blood pressure. Grave's disease is an autoimmune disorder leading to hyperthyroidism, and pheochromocytoma refers to a tumor of the adrenal gland that secretes catecholamines, resulting in hypertension. Each of these conditions has distinct effects on adrenal hormone levels, making Addison's disease the definitive example of hypoadrenalism.

Hypoadrenalism, also known as adrenal insufficiency, occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. Addison's disease is the primary condition that exemplifies this state. In Addison’s disease, there is a progressive destruction of the adrenal glands, leading to insufficient hormone production. Individuals with Addison’s disease typically present with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and skin changes due to lack of cortisol.

In contrast, conditions like Cushing's syndrome are characterized by hypercortisolism, which results from excessive levels of cortisol in the body, often leading to symptoms such as weight gain and high blood pressure. Grave's disease is an autoimmune disorder leading to hyperthyroidism, and pheochromocytoma refers to a tumor of the adrenal gland that secretes catecholamines, resulting in hypertension. Each of these conditions has distinct effects on adrenal hormone levels, making Addison's disease the definitive example of hypoadrenalism.