Endocrinology Exam Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Ranitidine is not associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis in adults. It is a histamine-2 blocker commonly used to reduce stomach acid production and treat conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease. On the other hand, the other options listed are known to increase the risk of osteoporosis:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cirrhosis is not a potential cause of elevated LDL cholesterol levels. The liver plays a significant role in cholesterol metabolism, and liver disease like cirrhosis can actually lead to decreased levels of LDL cholesterol. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels can be caused by conditions such as hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, or the use of certain medications like thiazide diuretics.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder that is characterized by the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland in adults. This results in the abnormal growth of bones and tissues, leading to enlarged hands, feet, and facial features. The excess GH is usually caused by a pituitary tumor known as a somatotroph adenoma. This tumor causes the pituitary gland to produce excessive amounts of GH, which in turn leads to the symptoms associated with acromegaly. Treatment for acromegaly often involves surgical removal or reduction of the pituitary tumor, as well as medication to normalize GH levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), there is excessive secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) leading to increased water reabsorption in the kidney tubules. This results in dilutional hyponatremia because the amount of water reabsorbed is greater than the electrolytes, such as sodium, leading to a relative decrease in their concentration in the blood. As a result, hyponatremia occurs in SIADH, contributing to symptoms such as nausea, confusion, and seizures due to the imbalance in electrolytes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pseudo-Cushing's syndrome is a condition that mimics the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome but is not actually caused by excess cortisol production by the adrenal glands. It can be caused by various conditions such as chronic alcoholism, obesity, depression, and certain medications. However, myxoedema (also known as severe hypothyroidism) is not typically associated with pseudo-Cushing's syndrome. Myxoedema is characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, which would not lead to the symptoms of pseudo-Cushing's syndrome.