Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

Which physiological change indicates a diagnosis of Addison's disease?

1. Increased sodium, decreased potassium

2. Decreased sodium, increased potassium

3. Normal sodium, normal potassium

4. Increased sodium, increased potassium

The correct answer is: Decreased sodium, increased potassium

Addison's disease, a condition characterized by insufficient production of adrenal hormones, typically results in specific electrolyte imbalances. In this disorder, the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate amounts of cortisol and often aldosterone as well. Aldosterone is crucial for sodium retention and potassium excretion. In the case of Addison's disease, the deficiency in aldosterone leads to decreased sodium levels in the bloodstream because of impaired sodium reabsorption in the kidneys. At the same time, there is a resulting increase in potassium levels due to the kidneys’ inability to excrete potassium effectively. Therefore, the physiological changes associated with Addison’s disease, specifically the combination of decreased sodium and increased potassium, align with this understanding of the body's hormonal regulation and electrolyte balance. This makes the diagnosis of Addison's disease clearly identifiable through these changes in sodium and potassium levels.