A 42-year-old woman has fatigue, weight loss, hyperpigmentation, salt craving, sodium 128 mEq/L, and potassium 5.6 mEq/L. Morning cortisol is low and

Question

A 42-year-old woman has fatigue, weight loss, hyperpigmentation, salt craving, sodium 128 mEq/L, and potassium 5.6 mEq/L. Morning cortisol is low and ACTH is elevated. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?

Accepted Answer

Primary adrenal insufficiency

Answer

Cushing syndrome

Answer

Central hypothyroidism as the sole disorder

Answer

Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion

Answer

Primary hyperaldosteronism

Chronic adrenal insufficiency — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 42-year-old woman has fatigue, weight loss, hyperpigmentation, salt craving, sodium 128 mEq/L, and potassium 5.6 mEq/L. Morning cortisol is low and ACTH is elevated. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?