A patient presents with skin pigmentation, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and postural hypotension. What electrolyte abnormality is likely to occur?

The key is A. Na+=130, K+=6.5. [Addison disease is adrenocortical insufficiency due to the

destruction or dysfunction of the entire adrenal cortex. It affects glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid

function. The onset of disease usually occurs when 90% or more of both adrenal cortices are

dysfunctional or destroyed. Hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes often precedes all

other symptoms by months to years. Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and postural hypotension are

well known features of acute addisons disease. In Addison’s disease there is low Na+, low Cl-, low CO2

and raised K+].