Which gland is primarily affected in Addison’s disease?

Addison's disease is primarily characterized by insufficient production of hormones from the adrenal glands, which are located on top of each kidney. In this condition, the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone. Cortisol is a critical hormone for managing stress responses, metabolism, and immune function, while aldosterone is vital for regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body.

The correct identification of the adrenal glands as primarily affected in Addison’s disease is essential for understanding the underlying pathology of the condition. The dysregulation of hormone production leads to symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and cravings for salty foods due to electrolyte imbalances.

The other glands mentioned in the options—pituitary, thyroid, and pancreas—do not directly relate to Addison’s disease. The pituitary gland might affect adrenal function indirectly through the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), but the disease is fundamentally rooted in the adrenal glands’ dysfunction. The thyroid gland plays a role in metabolism and energy levels but is not involved in the hormone production issues seen in Addison’s disease. The pancreas, responsible for insulin production and blood sugar regulation, also has no direct connection to the adrenal dysfunction evident in this condition