Endocrine Pathophysiology Practice Test

A 45-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician for evaluation of high blood pressure, which was noted at a recent health screening. She has also been experiencing persistent muscle weakness and occasional episodes of tingling in her extremities. Her blood pressure is 165/100 mm Hg. Laboratory studies reveal a serum sodium of 147 mEq/L, potassium of 2.9 mEq/L, and bicarbonate of 31 mEq/L. Plasma renin activity is suppressed.

A 30-year-old man presents to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, and profound weakness. He has a history of fatigue, weight loss, and salt craving over the past year. Physical examination shows a blood pressure of 80/50 mm Hg, diffuse hyperpigmentation of the skin and buccal mucosa, and signs of dehydration. Laboratory studies show hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypoglycemia.