Which of the following is a possible consequence of excess cortisol in the body?

• A. Lower blood glucose levels
• B. Decreased blood pressure
• C. Increased muscle mass
• D. Suppressed immune function

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a steroid hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress and low blood-glucose concentration. It helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure.
2. Step 2: Review the effects of excess cortisol. Excess cortisol typically leads to increased blood glucose levels (not lower), elevated blood pressure (not decreased), and muscle breakdown rather than increased muscle mass.
3. Step 3: Recognize that one of the key consequences of prolonged high cortisol levels is suppression of the immune system, which reduces the body's ability to fight infections and heal wounds.
4. Step 4: Compare the options given: lower blood glucose levels, decreased blood pressure, increased muscle mass, and suppressed immune function. Based on cortisol's known effects, suppressed immune function is the correct consequence.
5. Step 5: Conclude that excess cortisol suppresses immune function, making the body more vulnerable to illness, which aligns with the correct answer provided.