Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Excessive weight loss, thinning skin, and hair loss can be signs of which condition?

1. Cushing's disease

2. Hyperthyroidism

3. Addison's disease

4. Atopic dermatitis

The correct answer is: Hyperthyroidism

Excessive weight loss, thinning skin, and hair loss are prominent signs associated with hyperthyroidism. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones, which accelerates the body's metabolism. As a result, individuals with hyperthyroidism may experience rapid weight loss despite normal or increased appetite. Additionally, the increased metabolic rate can lead to thinning of the skin and hair loss, as the body reallocates its energy resources. The relationship between the thyroid hormones and metabolism is crucial in understanding how hyperthyroidism affects the body. As the hormones stimulate metabolic functions, they can generate a variety of symptoms, including these significant changes in weight and skin and hair condition. Other conditions listed, such as Cushing's disease and Addison's disease, exhibit different symptoms associated with hormone imbalances or adrenal dysfunction. Atopic dermatitis primarily deals with skin inflammation and does not align with the systemic effects seen in hyperthyroidism. Thus, hyperthyroidism is the most fitting condition when considering the combination of those specific symptoms.