Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Gastroparesis is a complication of diabetes mellitus. It is a condition that affects the normal spontaneous movement of the muscles in the stomach, causing delayed emptying of food from the stomach into the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and poor appetite. Diabetes can damage the nerves that control the stomach muscles, resulting in gastroparesis. Managing blood sugar levels and following a proper diet can help in controlling the symptoms of gastroparesis in individuals with diabetes. Exophthalmos, hirsutism, and moon facies are not typically associated with complications of diabetes mellitus.

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: D

Rationale: Neuropathic pain due to diabetes can present with a variety of symptoms, including burning pain, electric shock quality, and tingling sensation. These symptoms are commonly reported by individuals with diabetic neuropathy, which is the most common form of neuropathic pain associated with diabetes. The combination of these sensations can significantly impact the quality of life for those living with diabetes and neuropathic pain. Therefore, all of the above options are consistent with neuropathic pain due to diabetes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Cortisol secretion is directly stimulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is produced and released by the anterior pituitary gland in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus. ACTH acts on the adrenal cortex to stimulate the production and release of cortisol. Aldosterone is another hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, but it is not directly involved in the stimulation of cortisol secretion. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a role in lactation, not cortisol secretion. High blood potassium levels can stimulate aldosterone secretion but do not directly stimulate cortisol secretion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results from the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) in adulthood. One of the key physical characteristics associated with acromegaly is the enlargement of facial features. People with acromegaly often develop prognathism, which is a condition where the lower jaw protrudes forward, leading to a prominent lower face. Additionally, they may have large fleshy lips due to the soft tissue swelling that occurs as a result of excess GH. Other common signs of acromegaly include enlarged hands and feet, thickened skin, and joint pain.