Hyperkalemia is commonly associated with which endocrine disorder?

• A. Diabetes insipidus
• B. Hypoadrenocorticism
• C. Hyperthyroidism
• D. Hyperparathyroidism

Answer: (B)

Hyperkalemia occurs when the body can’t excrete potassium efficiently in the kidneys, and the key driver is a deficiency of aldosterone, the mineralocorticoid that promotes potassium excretion in the distal tubules and collecting ducts. In hypoadrenocorticism (primary adrenal insufficiency), aldosterone production drops (along with cortisol), leading to reduced potassium excretion and elevated blood potassium levels. That’s why this endocrine disorder is classically associated with hyperkalemia. The other conditions listed don’t typically cause this electrolyte disturbance: diabetes insipidus affects fluid balance mainly through ADH deficiency; hyperthyroidism alters metabolism but not potassium handling as a hallmark; hyperparathyroidism mainly disrupts calcium and phosphate balance.