Pediatric Dentistry · single question
A patient presents with multiple skin pigmentation, lethargy, and low blood pressure (80/60 mmHg) with bronze skin discoloration. What is the most likely diagnosis?
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Correct answer: D. Addison's disease
- A. Hypothyroidism causes fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin — not hypotension with bronze pigmentation.
- B. Cushing's syndrome causes the OPPOSITE: hypertension, moon face, central obesity, purple striae, and hyperpigmentation (in ACTH-dependent Cushing's).
- C. Crohn's disease (inflammatory bowel disease) causes GI symptoms; it does not cause hypotension and bronze pigmentation.
- D. Correct. Addison's disease (primary adrenal insufficiency) classically presents with hypotension, weakness/lethargy, and HYPERPIGMENTATION (bronze skin) due to excess ACTH stimulating melanocytes. Low cortisol causes low blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances.
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