Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The posterior pituitary gland secretes anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, which are produced in the hypothalamus and then transported and stored in the posterior pituitary before being released into the bloodstream. ADH, also known as vasopressin, helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. Oxytocin, on the other hand, plays a role in various reproductive functions such as labor and lactation, as well as social bonding and behavior.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cushing's syndrome is a condition characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. When there is an overproduction of cortisol, either due to excessive production by the adrenal glands or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, it can result in Cushing's syndrome. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and irregularities in menstruation. It is important to diagnose and manage Cushing's syndrome to prevent potential complications such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The triad of hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), haemodilution (increased plasma volume), and urine hypertonic to plasma (high urine osmolality compared to blood osmolality) is characteristic of Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH). In SIADH, there is excessive release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, leading to water retention by the kidneys and dilutional hyponatremia. This condition results in the body holding onto water, causing hyponatremia and dilution of the blood. The urine being hypertonic compared to plasma indicates that the kidneys are reabsorbing water effectively and concentrating the urine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: ADH (antidiuretic hormone), also known as vasopressin, is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. ADH plays a key role in regulating water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. When the body senses a decrease in blood volume or an increase in blood osmolarity, ADH is released to signal the kidneys to conserve water, leading to concentrated urine production and water retention in the body.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The posterior pituitary gland secretes anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, which are produced in the hypothalamus and then transported and stored in the posterior pituitary before being released into the bloodstream. ADH, also known as vasopressin, helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. Oxytocin, on the other hand, plays a role in various reproductive functions such as labor and lactation, as well as social bonding and behavior.