What condition is a consequence of an underactive adrenal gland?

An underactive adrenal gland is most commonly associated with Addison's disease. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, primarily cortisol and often aldosterone. The result is a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation of the skin due to an increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels.

Addison's disease can be caused by autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex, infections, or other factors that impair the adrenal glands' function. The lack of cortisol can lead to an inability to respond effectively to stress, as cortisol plays a crucial role in the body's stress response and metabolism.

In contrast, the other conditions listed are related to different adrenal or pituitary functions. Cushing's disease involves an overproduction of cortisol, often due to a tumor in the pituitary gland. Hyperaldosteronism, whether primary or secondary, is characterized by excessive production of aldosterone, leading to hypertension and electrolyte imbalances. Hypopituitarism involves insufficient hormone production from the pituitary gland itself, affecting multiple hormone systems, including those related to the adrenal glands.

Thus, the correct identification of Addison's disease as a consequence of adrenal insufficiency highlights the importance