Medical adrenalectomy is done with :
**Core Concept**
Medical adrenalectomy refers to the pharmacological suppression of adrenal steroid hormone production, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. This is achieved through the administration of medications that inhibit the enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of these hormones.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **Mitotane**. Mitotane is a medication that acts by inhibiting the enzymes 11Ξ²-hydroxylase and 17Ξ±-hydroxylase, which are crucial for the biosynthesis of cortisol and aldosterone, respectively. By suppressing the production of these hormones, mitotane effectively achieves a medical adrenalectomy. This is particularly useful in the management of Cushing's syndrome and certain types of adrenal cancer.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** **Ketoconazole** is an antifungal agent that also has some inhibitory effects on steroid hormone biosynthesis, but it is not the primary medication used for medical adrenalectomy.
**Option B:** **Spironolactone** is a potassium-sparing diuretic that acts as an aldosterone antagonist, but it does not inhibit the biosynthesis of aldosterone.
**Option C:** **Aminoglutethimide** is a medication that inhibits the enzyme 11Ξ²-hydroxylase, but it is not the preferred choice for medical adrenalectomy due to its side effects and limited efficacy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Mitotane is a unique medication that can cause adrenal atrophy and suppression of steroid hormone production, making it an essential choice for medical adrenalectomy.
**Correct Answer:** C. Mitotane