CEA Nursing Practice Exam

During a routine examination, what is a potential complication of untreated Addison's disease?

1. Increased skin pigmentation

2. Hypertension

3. Hyperactivity

4. Frequent urination

The correct answer is: Increased skin pigmentation

In untreated Addison's disease, which involves insufficient production of adrenal hormones, one of the hallmark signs is increased skin pigmentation. This occurs due to the elevated levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the bloodstream. When the adrenal glands are not producing enough cortisol, the pituitary gland compensates by releasing more ACTH. High levels of ACTH stimulate melanocytes in the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation in various areas, especially in areas exposed to friction or sun. This symptom can serve as a visible cue for healthcare providers to suspect underlying adrenal insufficiency. In contrast, hypertension, hyperactivity, and frequent urination are not direct results of Addison's disease. Specifically, untreated Addison's disease typically leads to low blood pressure due to loss of aldosterone, which helps regulate blood volume and pressure. Additionally, the disease causes fatigue and lethargy rather than hyperactivity, and while certain symptoms like dehydration can occasionally lead to increased urination, this is not a primary complication linked directly to the disease itself.