In adrenal crisis, which laboratory abnormalities are typically seen?

• A. Hyponatremia; hypokalemia; hyperglycemia
• B. Hyponatremia; hyperkalemia; hypoglycemia
• C. Hypernatremia; hypokalemia; hyperglycemia
• D. Hypernatremia; hyperkalemia; hypoglycemia

Answer: (B)

Adrenal crisis occurs when both aldosterone and cortisol are deficient. Without aldosterone, the kidney loses salt and water poorly reabsorbed, leading to hyponatremia and potassium retention (hyperkalemia). Without cortisol, gluconeogenesis drops and tissues may use more glucose, causing hypoglycemia. Put together, the typical lab pattern is low sodium, high potassium, and low glucose. Hypernatremia or hypokalemia would not fit the lack of aldosterone, and hyperglycemia would not align with cortisol deficiency.