Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid typically presents with symptoms related to the thyroid gland itself, neck mass or swelling, and sometimes cervical lymphadenopathy. It is characterized by the production of calcitonin, leading to high serum calcitonin levels. Carcinoid syndrome, which includes symptoms such as flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing, is more commonly associated with neuroendocrine tumors, rather than medullary carcinoma of the thyroid. Psychosis is not a typical feature or manifestation of medullary carcinoma of the thyroid.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is one of the hormones produced in the anterior pituitary gland. The anterior pituitary gland secretes several hormones that regulate various functions in the body. FSH plays a crucial role in both males and females. In females, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which contain the eggs. In males, FSH is essential for the production of sperm in the testes. The production and release of FSH are regulated by the hypothalamus and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Binding proteins are essential in transporting hormones through the bloodstream and protecting them from rapid degradation by enzymes. These proteins do not actually mediate the hormonal effects themselves. Hormonal effects are typically mediated by the hormone-receptor interactions at target cells. Binding proteins primarily serve as carriers for hormones and maintain their stability and availability in the circulation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test is commonly used as an initial screening test for Cushing's syndrome. In this test, a patient takes 1 mg of dexamethasone orally at 11 p.m., and their serum cortisol level is measured the next morning. In patients with Cushing's syndrome, the cortisol levels will not be suppressed by the dexamethasone due to the presence of excessive cortisol production.