A 34-year-old male complains of extreme fatigue and weakness, lightheadedness, anorexia, and unintentional weight loss of 20 pounds over the last month. The patient has a history of tuberculosis as a child from age 4. Current tuberculin purified protein derivative is pending. On physical examination, the patient is afebrile, with heart rate 110 beats/min., respirations 18 breaths/min, and blood pressure 100/50. He has a tanned complexion, is thin and frail looking, and looks younger than his stated age. His heart presents with tachycardia and a regular rhythm. Lungs are clear to auscultation. Abdomen is nontender with no organomegaly. Extremities show no significant findings. No neurological deficits. Chest x-ray demonstrates an area of scar tissue. These signs and symptoms are characteristic of:

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of extreme fatigue and weakness, lightheadedness, anorexia, unintentional weight loss, low blood pressure, tanned complexion, and history of tuberculosis suggest Addison's disease. Addison's disease is characterized by adrenal insufficiency, which can result from autoimmune destruction or, as in this case, potentially from tuberculosis affecting the adrenal glands in the past.

A 34-Year-Old Male Complains of Extreme Fatigue and Weakness, Lightheadedness