Cushing's syndrome and aldosteronism have the same effects on which of the following?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Thyroid hormone secretion
• C. Blood glucose levels
• D. Calcium absorption

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the conditions mentioned in the problem. Cushing's syndrome is caused by excessive cortisol production, while aldosteronism is caused by excessive aldosterone production. Both hormones are secreted by the adrenal glands and have distinct physiological effects.
2. Step 2: Analyze the effects of cortisol in Cushing's syndrome. Cortisol increases blood glucose levels by stimulating gluconeogenesis in the liver and reducing glucose uptake by cells. It also has effects on blood pressure by increasing sensitivity to vasoconstrictors.
3. Step 3: Examine the effects of aldosterone in aldosteronism. Aldosterone regulates sodium and water retention in the kidneys, which increases blood volume and subsequently raises blood pressure. It does not directly affect blood glucose levels or thyroid hormone secretion.
4. Step 4: Compare the overlapping effects of both conditions. Both Cushing's syndrome and aldosteronism can lead to increased blood pressure due to their respective mechanisms (cortisol's effect on vasoconstriction and aldosterone's effect on fluid retention). Other options like thyroid hormone secretion, blood glucose levels, and calcium absorption are not similarly affected by both conditions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the shared effect of Cushing's syndrome and aldosteronism is on blood pressure, as both conditions contribute to hypertension through different pathways.