A Disease That Destroys the Adrenal Cortex Should Lead to an Increase

Question

A disease that destroys the adrenal cortex should lead to an increase in the plasma levels of
A) glucocorticoid hormones.
B) epinephrine.
C) adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
D) glucose.
E) acetylcholine.

Accepted Answer

When the adrenal cortex is destroyed, there is a decrease in glucocorticoid hormones, including cortisol. This decrease in cortisol leads to an increase in production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland. The increased ACTH levels may result in hyperpigmentation and an increase in melanin production. However, the destruction of the adrenal cortex would not cause an increase in epinephrine, glucose, or acetylcholine levels.