Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Cortisol secretion is directly stimulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is produced and released by the anterior pituitary gland in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus. ACTH acts on the adrenal cortex to stimulate the production and release of cortisol. Aldosterone is another hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, but it is not directly involved in the stimulation of cortisol secretion. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a role in lactation, not cortisol secretion. High blood potassium levels can stimulate aldosterone secretion but do not directly stimulate cortisol secretion.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Polycystic ovarian disease, also known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common endocrine disorder characterized by increased levels of androgens (male hormones) and disrupted estrogen production in the ovaries. The hormonal imbalance seen in PCOS leads to increased gonadal production of estrogen. This condition is often associated with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, acne, and excess facial or body hair growth. In contrast, the other options do not typically involve increased gonadal production of estrogen as seen in PCOS.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Primary hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by the parathyroid glands, leading to elevated levels of calcium in the blood. This excessive calcium can cause calcification in various tissues, including the basal ganglia of the brain. The calcification of the basal ganglia in primary hyperparathyroidism is a well-known radiological finding and can be visualized on imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI. Hypoparathyroidism, on the other hand, is characterized by low levels of PTH and results in decreased serum calcium levels, making it an unlikely cause of basal ganglia calcification. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is associated with chronic kidney disease and is also characterized by high PTH levels, but basal ganglia calcification is not a typical manifestation of this condition. Milk-alkali syndrome is a disorder characterized by excessive intake of

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hyperuricemia is a medical condition characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. This can lead to the formation of urate crystals, which are responsible for various health problems. The three main conditions associated with hyperuricemia are cardiovascular disease (A), gouty arthritis (B), and nephrolithiasis (C).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Binding proteins are essential in transporting hormones through the bloodstream and protecting them from rapid degradation by enzymes. These proteins do not actually mediate the hormonal effects themselves. Hormonal effects are typically mediated by the hormone-receptor interactions at target cells. Binding proteins primarily serve as carriers for hormones and maintain their stability and availability in the circulation.