Multisystem: Shock, Sepsis and Metabolic Syndromes · USMLE Step 1

A patient with Addison disease presents with hypotension and hyperkalemia. Which mechanism explains these findings?

  1. Excess aldosterone secretion
  2. Low cortisol with elevated ACTH
  3. Low aldosterone causing sodium loss
  4. High insulin causing potassium shift
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Low aldosterone causing sodium loss

Aldosterone deficiency leads to sodium loss, volume depletion, hypotension, and hyperkalemia. This is characteristic of adrenal insufficiency.

Difficulty: Medium Question 11 of 19

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