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Are the following true or false of Addison's disease?

True / False

Is associated with a hypokalaemic alkalosis Correct

May develop acute adrenal insufficiency due to infection Incorrect answer selected

Is associated with elevated ACTH levels Correct

Can be mistaken for a perforated viscus Correct

Requires mineralocorticoid replacement in all cases Correct

Explanation

Acute addisonian crisis often mimics an acute abdomen with abdominal pain and hypotension.

Addison's is normally associated with hyperkalaemia.

Elevated ACTH levels are produced by the pituitary gland in response to low circulating levels of steroid hormones. They cause hyperpigmentation in palms and buccal mucosa.

An inadequate stress response to infection can tip a compensated Addison's patient into acute adrenal insufficiency.

Whether mineralocorticoid replacement is required often depends upon the aetiology of the condition and its severity.

Answer Statistics

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Average score: 83.11%

Times answered: 264