Endocrinology Exam Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Autonomic neuropathy in diabetes can manifest with various symptoms, such as retrograde ejaculation (A), gustatory sweating (B), and hypoglycemic unresponsiveness (D). Mononeuritis multiplex (C) is not typically associated with autonomic neuropathy in diabetes. Mononeuritis multiplex is a condition characterized by damage to at least two separate nerve areas resulting in weakness, pain, and sensory loss. Autonomic neuropathy in diabetes tends to affect the autonomic nerves that control involuntary bodily functions, leading to symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular abnormalities, and sexual dysfunction, but mononeuritis multiplex is not a common feature of this condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder caused by excessive growth hormone production by the pituitary gland in adults, leading to an increase in muscle mass (hypertrophy). Hoffman syndrome, characterized by increased muscle mass with slowness of activity, is a clinical feature often seen in individuals with acromegaly. The excessive growth hormone levels in acromegaly can cause acral growth, soft tissue swelling, and muscle hypertrophy, contributing to the characteristic features of the condition, including Hoffman syndrome. Therefore, the correct answer is Acromegaly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: C-21 hydroxylase deficiency is the most common enzymatic defect leading to the development of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). This enzyme is necessary for the synthesis of cortisol and aldosterone in the adrenal glands. When there is a deficiency in C-21 hydroxylase, the pathway is shifted towards the production of androgens instead of cortisol and aldosterone, leading to excess androgen production. This results in the characteristic features of CAH, such as ambiguous genitalia in females and virilization in both males and females. Other enzyme deficiencies listed in the choices can also lead to different types of CAH but are less common compared to C-21 hydroxylase deficiency.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is a hormone released by the pituitary gland in response to changes in blood osmolality, blood volume, and blood pressure. During hemorrhage (significant blood loss), the body experiences a decrease in blood volume and blood pressure. In response to this decrease in blood volume, ADH secretion is increased to help the body retain water and maintain blood pressure levels. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that ADH secretion is reduced during hemorrhage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cirrhosis is not a potential cause of elevated LDL cholesterol levels. The liver plays a significant role in cholesterol metabolism, and liver disease like cirrhosis can actually lead to decreased levels of LDL cholesterol. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels can be caused by conditions such as hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, or the use of certain medications like thiazide diuretics.