Exam Questions on Endocrine System Related

Review Exam Questions on Endocrine System related questions and content

A 32-year-old woman presents with a blood pressure of 155/96 mm Hg. In response to questioning, she admits that she loves licorice and eats some at least three times a week. She probably has a low level of

  • A. type 2 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity
  • B. ACTH
  • C. 11β-hydroxylase activity
  • D. glucocorticoid transferase
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: type 2 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which inhibits this enzyme, leading to increased levels of cortisol and mineralocorticoids. This explains the elevated blood pressure in the patient. Choice B, ACTH, is incorrect because licorice consumption does not directly affect ACTH levels. Choice C, 11β-hydroxylase activity, is incorrect as licorice does not impact this enzyme directly. Choice D, glucocorticoid transferase, is also incorrect as licorice does not affect this enzyme's activity.