An individual with Addison disease is emaciated and fatigued. Which disturbed body process is the root cause of these manifestations?

• A. Fluid balance
• B. Electrolyte levels
• C. Protein catabolism
• D. Masculinizing hormones

Answer: (C)

In Addison disease, a lack of cortisol disrupts metabolism and pushes the body toward a catabolic state where body proteins are broken down to provide energy and substrates for glucose production. This loss of lean protein stores leads to muscle wasting and fatigue, explaining the emaciation seen in this condition. While deficits in aldosterone cause fluid and electrolyte changes, and other hormones aren’t responsible for the wasting, the key process driving the weight loss and fatigue is increased protein breakdown driven by this cortisol deficiency.