Endocrinology Exam Questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Centripetal obesity, acne, and hirsutism are classic features of Cushing's syndrome. Cushing's syndrome results from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, which can be due to various causes such as adrenal tumors, pituitary adenomas, or exogenous glucocorticoid use. Centripetal obesity refers to the characteristic fat distribution pattern seen in Cushing's syndrome, where fat accumulates mainly in the face, neck, and trunk while sparing the limbs. Acne and hirsutism are also commonly seen in Cushing's syndrome due to the hormonal imbalances caused by excess cortisol. Testing for serum cortisol levels, dexamethasone suppression tests, and imaging studies can help confirm the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in a patient presenting with these symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Phaeochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that usually originates from the adrenal glands and produces excess catecholamines. The characteristic symptoms of phaeochromocytoma include paroxysmal (sudden and severe) hypertension, fear of impending death (angor animi), and episodic symptoms like palpitations, headache, and diaphoresis. However, weight gain is not a typical manifestation associated with phaeochromocytoma. In fact, patients with this condition may experience unintentional weight loss due to the effects of excess catecholamines on metabolism and appetite suppression. Therefore, weight gain is not a significant feature observed in individuals with phaeochromocytoma.

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: A

Rationale: Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, mainly cortisol and sometimes aldosterone. This deficiency in steroid hormone production is typically caused by autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex. Without enough cortisol and aldosterone, various symptoms may arise, such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and skin discoloration. Therefore, option A accurately describes the nature of Addison's disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hyperbilirubinemia is not a common effect of diabetes on the fetus. The correct effects of diabetes on the fetus include: