29. The Adrenal Gland

Question 1

A 29 year old girl who is BMI is 14 for her height and weight is brought to the doctor. She says she eats but won’t gain weight and is tired all the time during examination it is noted that her skin hyperpigmented. What is the most likely cause of this girls condition?

A. Direct melanin secreting tumor
B. Steroid abuse
C. Birth Control use 
D.  Increased ACTH production
E. Alcoholism 

RFA

Answer 1

Ans. D. The patient has Addison disease or primary adrenal insufficiency. The increase in ACTH also stimulates the production of melanin

A. Direct melanin secreting tumor- would not likely have the other symptoms

B. Steroid abuse- can cause Cushing’s

C. Birth control- can cause hyperprolactinemia

E. Alcoholism-liver cirrhosis which would cause jaundice