USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

What is the likely hormonal profile in a patient with hypertension and hypokalemia?

1. Increased testosterone and cortisol

2. Decreased estrogen and progesterone

3. Increased renin and aldosterone

4. Decreased thyroid hormone and growth hormone

The correct answer is: Increased renin and aldosterone

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often associated with hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. This is because aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, plays a role in regulating blood pressure and potassium levels in the body. When aldosterone levels are increased, it causes the kidneys to retain sodium and water, leading to high blood pressure. In the process, potassium is excreted in the urine, resulting in hypokalemia. A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not directly related to regulating blood pressure or potassium levels. Increased testosterone and cortisol are associated with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome and Cushing's syndrome, respectively. Decreased estrogen and progesterone levels are more commonly seen in menopause. Decreased thyroid hormone and growth hormone are associated with conditions like hypothyroidism and growth hormone deficiency, respectively. While these conditions may indirectly contribute to hypertension and hypokalemia, they are not the primary hormonal changes observed in this patient population. Therefore, C is the most likely hormonal profile in a patient with hypertension and hypokalemia.