Hypersecretion of cortisol leads to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice B is correct:
1. Hypersecretion of cortisol is a hallmark of Cushing's syndrome.
2. Excessive cortisol levels can lead to symptoms like weight gain, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness.
3. Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an overactive adrenal gland producing too much cortisol.
4. Addison's disease (choice A) is caused by adrenal insufficiency, leading to low cortisol levels.
5. Acromegaly (choice C) is a growth hormone disorder, not related to cortisol.
6. Dwarfism (choice D) is typically due to growth hormone deficiency, not cortisol excess.
Summary:
Choice B is correct because hypersecretion of cortisol is specifically associated with Cushing's syndrome, causing a range of symptoms related to excess cortisol production. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to cortisol hypersecretion.