In Primary Hypoadrenalism, You Would Expect

Question

In primary hypoadrenalism, you would expect
A) Decreased circulating ACTH
B) Decreased CRH
C) Increased skin pigmentation due to excess CRH
D) Increased skin pigmentation due to excess MSH as a by-product of ACTH secretion
E) Normal levels of aldosterone

Accepted Answer

In primary hypoadrenalism (Addison's disease), there is decreased cortisol production, leading to increased ACTH secretion. ACTH is derived from POMC, which also produces MSH, causing increased skin pigmentation.