What finding should a nurse expect in a client with a history of Addison's disease?

In clients with Addison's disease, one key finding is hyperpigmentation of the skin. This condition arises due to insufficient cortisol production from the adrenal glands, which leads to increased levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the bloodstream. The elevated ACTH stimulates melanocyte activity, resulting in an increased production of melanin and thus, hyperpigmentation. This can manifest as darker patches on the skin, particularly noticeable in areas exposed to sunlight, and can also occur in creases, scars, and around the nipples.

The other findings listed, such as hirsutism, intention tremors, and purple striations are not characteristic of Addison's disease. Hirsutism is more commonly associated with conditions that lead to excess androgen production, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, while intention tremors are typically linked to neurological disorders often involving the cerebellum. Purple striations, or stretch marks, are often related to conditions causing rapid weight gain or glucocorticoid use, rather than the adrenal insufficiency seen in Addison's disease.