Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What laboratory finding is NOT typically associated with adrenal crisis?

1. Elevated sodium levels

2. Decreased blood glucose

3. Low cortisol levels

4. Increased potassium levels

The correct answer is: Elevated sodium levels

In the context of an adrenal crisis, which is a severe and acute deficiency of adrenal hormones—particularly cortisol—certain laboratory findings are to be expected. Elevated sodium levels are not typically associated with an adrenal crisis; instead, individuals often present with hyponatremia (low sodium levels). During an adrenal crisis, the lack of cortisol leads to a cascade of physiological disturbances. Cortisol normally helps maintain blood glucose levels and regulate various electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. When cortisol is deficient, blood glucose levels often decrease, which aligns with the presence of hypoglycemia in adrenal crisis. Low cortisol levels are a hallmark of adrenal crisis since the condition indicates an inadequate supply of this vital hormone. Additionally, increased potassium levels are commonly observed due to the adrenal glands' failure to produce sufficient aldosterone, which promotes potassium excretion. Hence, elevated potassium levels may lead to hyperkalemia in this scenario. Overall, sodium levels are not elevated during this critical condition, making it the correct response to the question regarding which finding is not typically associated with adrenal crisis.