Which combination of symptoms is commonly seen in Addisonian crisis?

• A. Nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, altered mental status
• B. Hypertension, edema, rapid weight gain
• C. Jaundice, itching, and clay-colored stools
• D. Priapism and gynecomastia

Answer: (A)

An Addisonian crisis is an acute adrenal insufficiency where there is a sudden deficit of cortisol and aldosterone, leading to severe dehydration, hypotension, and electrolyte disturbances. This combination often produces gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, along with lightheadedness and changes in mental status due to decreased perfusion and glucose. That pattern—nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and altered mental status—best fits an adrenal crisis. The other options point to conditions with hypertension and edema, liver/biliary disease, or gonadal/endocrine issues, which are not characteristic of an Addisonian crisis.