MCQ Detailed View

Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient steroid hormones. The adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, are responsible for producing cortisol and aldosterone, two essential hormones that regulate metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and stress handling.The production of these adrenal hormones is controlled by the Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH), secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol and other glucocorticoids. When there is a deficiency of ACTH, the adrenal glands do not receive enough stimulation, leading to reduced production of cortisol. This results in symptoms associated with Addison’s disease, such as:

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  Persistent fatigue and muscle weakness

  
  


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  Low blood pressure and dizziness

  
  


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  Weight loss and poor appetite

  
  


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  Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)

  
  


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  Salt craving due to low aldosterone levels

  
  

While Addison’s disease can also occur due to direct damage to the adrenal glands (autoimmune disorders, infections, or injury), a deficiency of ACTH is a key hormonal cause leading to insufficient adrenal function.

Other hormones listed in the options are unrelated:

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  Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH): Regulates water balance in kidneys, deficiency causes diabetes insipidus.

  
  


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  Luteinising Hormone (LH): Involved in reproduction and sex hormone production.

  
  


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  Melanophore Stimulating Hormone (MSH): Controls pigment cell activity in skin, but not adrenal function.

  
  

Thus, the deficiency of Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone (ACTH) can lead to Addison’s disease by impairing the adrenal glands' ability to produce necessary steroid hormones, causing widespread effects on the body's metabolism and stress response.