Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: While African race is considered a protective factor against the development of osteoporosis due to higher peak bone mass and lower fracture rates compared to other races, the other factors listed (current cigarette smoking, female sex, and physical inactivity) are all established risk factors for the development of osteoporotic fractures. African-American individuals, in general, have a lower risk of osteoporosis and fractures compared to Caucasians and Asians.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia does not lead to dwarfism. It is a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands and can cause various symptoms related to hormone imbalances. In contrast, the other conditions listed - hypopituitarism, homocystinuria, and pseudohypoparathyroidism - can all lead to dwarfism through different mechanisms. Hypopituitarism is characterized by a deficiency of pituitary hormones, including growth hormone, which can result in stunted growth and dwarfism. Homocystinuria is a metabolic disorder that can affect bone growth and lead to skeletal abnormalities resulting in dwarfism. Pseudohypoparathyroidism is a rare genetic disorder that can manifest with short stature or dwarfism due to skeletal abnormalities caused by altered bone metabolism.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Grave's disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to overproduction of thyroid hormones. This results in symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, heat intolerance, and tremors. While toxic thyroid adenoma, toxic multinodular goitre, and thyroiditis are also potential causes of hyperthyroidism, Grave's disease is the most prevalent among them.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results from the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) in adulthood. One of the key physical characteristics associated with acromegaly is the enlargement of facial features. People with acromegaly often develop prognathism, which is a condition where the lower jaw protrudes forward, leading to a prominent lower face. Additionally, they may have large fleshy lips due to the soft tissue swelling that occurs as a result of excess GH. Other common signs of acromegaly include enlarged hands and feet, thickened skin, and joint pain.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In males, Leydig cells in the testes are stimulated to produce testosterone by luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and acts on the Leydig cells to promote the synthesis and release of testosterone. This hormone plays a crucial role in male reproductive function and the development of masculine characteristics. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a role in spermatogenesis in males but does not directly stimulate Leydig cells to produce testosterone.