In which areas of the body would a pyelonephritis infection be located?

Choice A rationale

An insufficient amount of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) would lead to hypothyroidism, not Addison’s disease.

Choice B rationale

Decreased levels of all the adrenocortical hormones could lead to various symptoms, but the most severe manifestations of Addison’s disease are specifically caused by an insufficient amount of circulating cortisol.

Choice C rationale

Deficiencies in the renin-angiotensin system could affect blood pressure regulation, but they would not cause the most severe manifestations of Addison’s disease.

Choice D rationale

An insufficient amount of circulating cortisol is indeed what causes the most severe manifestations of Addison’s disease. Cortisol is a hormone that helps your body respond to stress, including the stress of illness, injury or surgery. It also helps maintain your blood pressure, heart function, immune system and blood glucose (sugar) levels.

Choice A rationale

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in your kidneys. It can be caused by infections, including those caused by streptococcal or Staphylococcus bacteria.

Choice B rationale

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes numerous cysts to grow in the kidneys. It’s not typically caused by infections.

Choice C rationale

Nephrolithiasis refers to the condition of having kidney stones. It’s not caused by bacterial infections.

Choice D rationale

Interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure and pain. It’s not caused by streptococcal or Staphylococcus infections.