Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hypoglycemia is characterized by a low blood sugar level, which can lead to various symptoms. The features of hypoglycemia typically include drenching sweat, tachycardia (increased heart rate), and tachypnea (rapid breathing). A brisk jerk, on the other hand, is not a typical feature of hypoglycemia. Symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, shakiness, hunger, weakness, and irritability are more commonly associated with hypoglycemia than a brisk jerk.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Myxoedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism characterized by a range of symptoms and signs. Ascites, cerebellar ataxia, and increased incidence of pernicious anaemia are recognized features of myxoedema. However, thyroid acropachy is not a recognized feature of myxoedema. Thyroid acropachy is a condition characterized by clubbing of the fingers and toes, swelling of the hands and feet, and periosteal new bone formation, typically seen in patients with Graves' disease, which is a form of hyperthyroidism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder where excess growth hormone is produced, leading to the enlargement of bones and tissues. The prevalence of acromegaly is higher in men compared to women, with a ratio of about two men affected for every woman. This gender difference is believed to be due to the impact of sex hormones on the development and progression of the condition. While acromegaly can affect both men and women, men are more commonly diagnosed with the disorder.

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: Hyperthermia is not a typical feature of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is typically characterized by high blood sugar levels, ketone accumulation, metabolic acidosis, dehydration, drowsiness, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness. Common symptoms include drowsiness, dehydration, and air hunger (deep and rapid breathing). However, hyperthermia, which refers to an elevated body temperature, is not a characteristic typically associated with DKA. It is important to monitor and manage DKA promptly as it is a serious complication of diabetes that requires immediate medical attention.