Endocrinology Practice Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Acute pancreatitis. Hyperparathyroidism is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. Hyperparathyroidism is characterized by excessive production of parathyroid hormone, leading to increased calcium levels in the blood. Nephrocalcinosis, palpable neck swelling, and pseudogout are commonly seen in hyperparathyroidism due to the effects of elevated calcium levels on the kidneys, parathyroid glands, and joints, respectively. Acute pancreatitis, on the other hand, is more commonly associated with gallstones, alcohol consumption, or certain medications, rather than hyperparathyroidism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Kidney disease. Oral contraceptive pills are contraindicated in patients with kidney disease due to the risk of impaired drug clearance and potential adverse effects on renal function. Breast cancer (A), liver disease (C), and prior history of deep venous thrombosis (D) are all contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives due to increased risks of complications such as thrombosis or exacerbation of underlying conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Glucose-6-phosphatase deficiency. This enzyme is essential for gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, so its deficiency leads to fasting hypoglycemia. Galactosaemia (A) can cause hypoglycemia due to impaired galactose metabolism. Insulinoma (B) results in excess insulin production causing hypoglycemia. Systemic carnitine deficiency (D) can lead to hypoglycemia by impairing fatty acid oxidation, but it does not directly cause fasting hypoglycemia as seen in Glucose-6-phosphatase deficiency.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Excess prolactin causes gynaecomastia due to its stimulatory effect on breast tissue growth in males. Prolactin inhibits the release of testosterone, leading to an imbalance in sex hormones and breast tissue development. Acromegaly is caused by excess growth hormone, not prolactin. Early menopause is unrelated to prolactin levels. Anaemia is typically not associated with prolactin excess. Thus, gynaecomastia is the most appropriate outcome of excess prolactin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Gynaecomastia is a known side effect of spironolactone, digitalis, and cimetidine. 2. Rifampicin is not associated with gynaecomastia. 3. Rifampicin is an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other infections. 4. The mechanism of action of rifampicin does not involve hormonal changes that could lead to gynaecomastia. Summary of incorrect choices: - A: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can cause gynaecomastia. - B: Digitalis (digoxin) can lead to gynaecomastia as a side effect. - C: Cimetidine, an H2 receptor antagonist, is also known to cause gynaecomastia.