Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which condition is commonly associated with low adrenal function?

1. Addison's disease

2. Cushing's syndrome

3. Acromegaly

4. Hyperthyroidism

The correct answer is: Addison's disease

Addison's disease is a condition characterized by low adrenal function, specifically adrenal insufficiency. This occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce sufficient amounts of cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. In the case of Addison's disease, this can arise from autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex, infections, or other medical conditions that affect adrenal gland function. The result is a range of symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, and changes in skin pigmentation. In contrast, Cushing's syndrome involves hyperfunction of the adrenal glands, leading to an excessive production of cortisol. Acromegaly is related to excess growth hormone, typically due to a pituitary adenoma, not adrenal function. Hyperthyroidism is related to the overactivity of the thyroid gland and is not caused by adrenal function. Consequently, Addison's disease is the only condition listed that is directly associated with low adrenal function, reinforcing its identification as the correct answer.