Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An Addisonian crisis, also known as an acute adrenal crisis, is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs due to severe adrenal insufficiency, leading to a sudden drop in cortisol levels. Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and its deficiency can result in serious symptoms such as hypotension, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and shock. If left untreated, an Addisonian crisis can be fatal. Therefore, the correct description of an Addisonian crisis is severe adrenal insufficiency resulting in dangerously low serum cortisol levels.

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: 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: B

Rationale: ADH (antidiuretic hormone), also known as vasopressin, is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. ADH plays a key role in regulating water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. When the body senses a decrease in blood volume or an increase in blood osmolarity, ADH is released to signal the kidneys to conserve water, leading to concentrated urine production and water retention in the body.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The earliest changes observed by ophthalmoscope in background retinopathy of diabetes is typically the presence of microaneurysms. These are small dilations of retinal capillaries due to weakening of the vessel walls caused by diabetes-induced damage. Microaneurysms are a hallmark sign of diabetic retinopathy and are often the first visible sign on retinal examination. Other changes in diabetic retinopathy, such as venous dilatation, increased capillary permeability, and arteriovenous shunts, may develop later in the disease process as it progresses.