Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Thyrotoxicosis, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a condition characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production by the thyroid gland. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis can include weight loss, heat intolerance, tremors, hyperactivity, and fatigue. While musculoskeletal symptoms such as weakness and tremors are common in thyrotoxicosis, true myopathy (muscle disease) is not a typical feature of the condition. Therefore, myopathy is the correct choice among the given options.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The adrenal cortex is the outer region of the adrenal glands and is responsible for producing several hormones, including aldosterone. Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body. It helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance by acting on the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water while excreting potassium in the urine. Adrenaline and noradrenaline (also known as epinephrine and norepinephrine) are produced by the adrenal medulla, which is the inner region of the adrenal glands. Cortisol is another hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, but aldosterone specifically regulates electrolyte balance.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Neurogenic diabetes insipidus is due to a deficiency in vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH) production in the hypothalamus or a failure of proper vasopressin release from the posterior pituitary. Causes of neurogenic DI typically involve factors affecting vasopressin synthesis, storage, or release. However, mutations in the vasopressin gene itself would be a cause of genetic forms of diabetes insipidus, not neurogenic diabetes insipidus. Common causes of neurogenic diabetes insipidus include traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, pituitary adenomas, meningitis, and Sheehan's syndrome.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder caused by excessive growth hormone production after the closure of the epiphyses (growth plates) in bones, leading to abnormal growth of tissues and organs. The following options are associated with acromegaly:

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.