The results of a patient's adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)test show a decreased cortisol level and an increased ACTH level.Which of the following conditions do these results most likely indicate?
A)Addison's disease
B)Cushing's disease
C)Cushing's syndrome related to ectopic source of ACTH
D)Cushing's syndrome (ACTH-independent)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decreased cortisol level and increased ACTH level indicate primary adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease. In this condition, the adrenal cortex is damaged and cannot produce enough hormones, leading to a decrease in cortisol and an increase in ACTH secretion from the pituitary gland. This is in contrast to Cushing's disease, which is characterized by increased cortisol secretion due to a pituitary tumor, or Cushing's syndrome related to an ectopic source of ACTH, which is characterized by increased cortisol secretion due to an ACTH-producing tumor outside of the pituitary gland. Cushing's syndrome (ACTH-independent) is characterized by increased cortisol secretion due to an adrenal tumor or other non-pituitary source, but in this case, the ACTH level would be low.

The Results of a Patient's Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)test Show a Decreased