In the management of Addison disease, which statement best reflects the main treatment goal?

• A. Decrease in eosinophils
• B. Increase in lymphoid tissue
• C. Restoration of electrolyte balance
• D. Improvement of carbohydrate metabolism

Answer: (C)

In Addison disease, the key aim of treatment is to replace the missing adrenal hormones to correct the dangerous electrolyte and fluid disturbances caused by lack of aldosterone. Aldosterone deficiency leads to hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, dehydration, and low blood pressure. Replacing mineralocorticoids (with glucocorticoids as well) restores sodium and potassium balance and stabilizes volume and pressure, which is the most immediate, life-sustaining goal of therapy. While improving carbohydrate metabolism or other systemic effects can occur with hormone replacement, they are not the primary target. The restoration of electrolyte balance best reflects the main treatment objective.