Endocrinology Exam Questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is a hormone released by the pituitary gland in response to changes in blood osmolality, blood volume, and blood pressure. During hemorrhage (significant blood loss), the body experiences a decrease in blood volume and blood pressure. In response to this decrease in blood volume, ADH secretion is increased to help the body retain water and maintain blood pressure levels. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that ADH secretion is reduced during hemorrhage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder characterized by excess growth hormone production, usually due to a pituitary adenoma. Signs and symptoms of acromegaly arise gradually over time due to excess growth hormone leading to tissue overgrowth.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is mainly caused by the autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex. This results in the inadequate production of hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone by the adrenal glands. While other conditions such as Adrenoleukodystrophy, Pyelonephritis, and Tuberculosis can also affect the adrenal glands, they are not known to be direct causes of Addison's disease.

Correct Answer:

Rationale: Oxytocin and Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), are the hormones stored in the posterior pituitary gland. These hormones are produced by the hypothalamus and then transported and stored in the posterior pituitary gland until they are released into the bloodstream when needed. Oxytocin plays a role in uterine contractions during childbirth and milk ejection during lactation, while Vasopressin regulates water balance in the body by acting on the kidneys to reduce urine production and conserve water. The other hormones listed, such as Prolactin, TSH, GH, ACTH, FSH, and LH, are produced by the anterior pituitary gland.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a hormone produced by the parathyroid glands in response to low blood calcium levels. Its main function is to raise calcium levels in the blood by acting on the bones, kidneys, and intestines. PTH stimulates the release of calcium from the bones, enhances the absorption of calcium by the intestines, and promotes the reabsorption of calcium by the kidneys. Therefore, it is secreted in increased amounts when blood calcium levels are below normal in order to maintain overall calcium balance in the body.