Endocrinology Practice Questions

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ischaemic heart disease. Metabolic syndrome X consists of a cluster of conditions, including hyperlipidemia, obesity, hypertension, and insulin resistance. Ischaemic heart disease, while commonly associated with metabolic syndrome X due to the increased risk factors, is not a direct component of the syndrome itself. Therefore, it is not considered a part of metabolic syndrome X. Hyperlipidemia (A), obesity (B), and hypertension (D) are all key components of metabolic syndrome X due to their association with insulin resistance and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chronic pancreatitis. Hypoglycemia is not typically associated with chronic pancreatitis as it is more related to pancreatic insufficiency and impaired glucose regulation. A: Glycogen storage disease can lead to hypoglycemia due to the inability to properly release stored glucose. C: Galactosaemia can cause hypoglycemia due to the impaired breakdown of galactose into glucose. D: Post-gastrectomy can lead to hypoglycemia due to rapid glucose absorption and altered hormonal responses.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Elevated glucose levels in obese individuals are often due to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to decreased glucose uptake. This results in elevated blood glucose levels. Diabetic acidosis (choice A) is a complication of uncontrolled diabetes characterized by high blood ketone levels, not directly related to obesity. Glucose intolerance (choice B) refers to the body's inability to regulate blood glucose levels efficiently but is not specific to obesity. Insulin deficiency (choice D) is characteristic of type 1 diabetes, where the body does not produce enough insulin, which is distinct from insulin resistance seen in obesity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because oxytocin and anti-diuretic hormone are synthesized in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland before being released into the bloodstream. This process is essential for regulating various physiological functions. Choices A and C are incorrect as oxytocin and anti-diuretic hormone are not complex steroids and are not released from the anterior pituitary. Choice B is also incorrect because while these hormones are indeed synthesized in the posterior pituitary, they are stored in the posterior pituitary before their release.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: ductless. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream without the use of ducts. This allows hormones to reach target organs throughout the body. Choice A (vascular) is incorrect because it refers to the presence of blood vessels, which is common in all glands, not just endocrine glands. Choice C (square) is irrelevant as the shape of glands does not determine their function. Choice D (autonomous) is incorrect as it does not accurately describe endocrine glands; while they function independently, the term "autonomous" does not specifically apply to them.