Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cushing's syndrome is a condition characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. When there is an overproduction of cortisol, either due to excessive production by the adrenal glands or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, it can result in Cushing's syndrome. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and irregularities in menstruation. It is important to diagnose and manage Cushing's syndrome to prevent potential complications such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Hypoglycemia is characterized by a low blood sugar level, which can lead to various symptoms. The features of hypoglycemia typically include drenching sweat, tachycardia (increased heart rate), and tachypnea (rapid breathing). A brisk jerk, on the other hand, is not a typical feature of hypoglycemia. Symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, shakiness, hunger, weakness, and irritability are more commonly associated with hypoglycemia than a brisk jerk.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder where excess growth hormone is produced, leading to the enlargement of bones and tissues. The prevalence of acromegaly is higher in men compared to women, with a ratio of about two men affected for every woman. This gender difference is believed to be due to the impact of sex hormones on the development and progression of the condition. While acromegaly can affect both men and women, men are more commonly diagnosed with the disorder.

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: B

Rationale: Cushing's syndrome is a disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol hormone. While Cushing's syndrome can manifest with a variety of symptoms, peripheral neuropathy is not a typical feature of this condition. Cushing's syndrome is commonly associated with symptoms such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), purple striae (skin stretch marks that are purple in color), and acne due to the hormonal imbalances it creates. Peripheral neuropathy, which involves damage to the peripheral nerves leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness in the extremities, is not a characteristic symptom of Cushing's syndrome.