Exam Questions on Endocrine System Related

Review Exam Questions on Endocrine System related questions and content

A patient presents with a bump on his neck. Upon taking a tissue sample, there appears to be parafollicular cells. The tumor is also associated with MEN II, although most of the time it is sporadic. What is the best way to moniter treatment?

  • A. Measure Thyroid Hormone Levels
  • B. Measure Iodine Levels
  • C. Measure Tsh Levels
  • D. Measure Calcitonin Levels
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The parafollicular cells in the tissue sample indicate a tumor of the thyroid gland, likely medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) associated with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type II (MEN II). MTC primarily secretes calcitonin. Monitoring Calcitonin levels is crucial for assessing disease progression and treatment response in MTC. Measuring Thyroid Hormone Levels (A) would not be specific for MTC. Iodine Levels (B) are not relevant in this context. TSH Levels (C) reflect pituitary feedback and are not specific to MTC. Therefore, the best way to monitor treatment in this case is to measure Calcitonin Levels (D).