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: Myxoedema is a term used to describe severe hypothyroidism. The characteristic features of myxoedema include sinus bradycardia (choice B), solid oedema (choice C), and madarosis (choice D), which refers to loss of eyebrows and eyelashes. However, a butterfly rash is not a typical feature of myxoedema. A butterfly rash is commonly associated with conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus rather than myxoedema.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is the condition characterized by the enlargement of the bones of the hands, feet, and face due to the overproduction of growth hormone in adults. This excess growth hormone typically comes from a benign tumor in the pituitary gland, leading to the gradual enlargement of these body parts. Cushing syndrome, on the other hand, is caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol and is not directly related to bone enlargement. Gigantism is the condition of excessive growth in height due to overproduction of growth hormone occurring in children before the closure of growth plates. Myxedema is a term used to describe severe hypothyroidism and is not directly associated with bone enlargement.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Conn's syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, is characterized by excess production of aldosterone by the adrenal glands. This leads to increased sodium retention and potassium excretion in the kidneys. As a result, patients with Conn's syndrome typically present with hypokalemia (low potassium levels), not hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). The other features of Conn's syndrome include alkalosis (metabolic), muscle cramps, and severe systemic hypertension.

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.