Which laboratory pattern is typical of primary adrenal insufficiency?

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Multiple Choice

Which laboratory pattern is typical of primary adrenal insufficiency?

Explanation:
Primary adrenal insufficiency causes a drop in aldosterone, which normally promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys. Without aldosterone, you lose sodium in the urine (and water follows), leading to hyponatremia and volume depletion. Simultaneously, potassium isn’t excreted as efficiently, causing hyperkalemia. The cortisol deficiency can further drive hyponatremia via increased ADH and by reducing effective circulating volume. This combination—low sodium and high potassium—is classic for Addison disease. In contrast, secondary adrenal insufficiency lowers cortisol but leaves aldosterone relatively intact, so hyperkalemia is not typical.

Primary adrenal insufficiency causes a drop in aldosterone, which normally promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys. Without aldosterone, you lose sodium in the urine (and water follows), leading to hyponatremia and volume depletion. Simultaneously, potassium isn’t excreted as efficiently, causing hyperkalemia. The cortisol deficiency can further drive hyponatremia via increased ADH and by reducing effective circulating volume. This combination—low sodium and high potassium—is classic for Addison disease. In contrast, secondary adrenal insufficiency lowers cortisol but leaves aldosterone relatively intact, so hyperkalemia is not typical.

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