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What is the most common cause for the overproduction of growth hormone in acromegaly?
- A. Hypothalamic lesion
- B. Hyperplasia of the pituitary stalk
- C. Pituitary lesion
- D. Pituitary adenoma
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Acromegaly is typically caused by the overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland. In around 95% of cases, this overproduction is due to the presence of a non-cancerous tumor called a pituitary adenoma. These adenomas are benign, slow-growing tumors that cause the pituitary gland to produce excessive amounts of growth hormone, leading to the characteristic symptoms of acromegaly such as enlargement of the bones and soft tissues.
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Persistent muscular weakness is characteristic of:
- A. Conn's syndrome
- B. Acromegaly
- C. Hyperparathyroidism
- D. Myxoedema
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Persistent muscular weakness is characteristic of myxoedema, which is severe hypothyroidism. Myxoedema can lead to general weakness and fatigue, as thyroid hormones play a crucial role in controlling metabolism and energy production in the body. Other symptoms of myxoedema include cold intolerance, weight gain, dry skin, and hair loss. Conn's syndrome (hyperaldosteronism) is characterized by hypertension and low potassium levels, not persistent muscular weakness. Acromegaly is a condition resulting from excess growth hormone production, leading to enlarged body parts and metabolic changes but not specifically muscular weakness. Hyperparathyroidism is associated with high levels of parathyroid hormone, which can lead to bone weakening and calcium imbalance, but it is not typically a primary cause of muscular weakness.
Which of the following is not a symptom of Cushing's syndrome?
- A. Easy bruising
- B. Weight gain
- C. Acne
- D. Weight loss
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Weight gain is a common symptom of Cushing's syndrome due to the excessive production of cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism and fat storage. The other symptoms listed, such as easy bruising, acne, and stretch marks, are also characteristic features of Cushing's syndrome. However, weight loss is typically not associated with this condition. In fact, individuals with Cushing's syndrome often experience unexplained and rapid weight gain, especially in the face, abdomen, and upper back (resulting in a characteristic "buffalo hump" appearance), rather than weight loss.
A person with acromegaly usually has:
- A. prognathism and large fleshy lips.
- B. hypoglycemia.
- C. a growth hormone deficiency.
- D. protruding eye balls.
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.
Increased gonadal production of oestrogen is seen in:
- A. Third trimester of pregnancy
- B. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- C. Polycystic ovarian disease
- D. Testicular feminization syndrome
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Polycystic ovarian disease, also known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common endocrine disorder characterized by increased levels of androgens (male hormones) and disrupted estrogen production in the ovaries. The hormonal imbalance seen in PCOS leads to increased gonadal production of estrogen. This condition is often associated with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, acne, and excess facial or body hair growth. In contrast, the other options do not typically involve increased gonadal production of estrogen as seen in PCOS.
All are features of diabetic ketoacidosis except:
- A. Hyperthermia
- B. Drowsiness
- C. Dehydration
- D. Air hunger
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hyperthermia is not a typical feature of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is typically characterized by high blood sugar levels, ketone accumulation, metabolic acidosis, dehydration, drowsiness, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness. Common symptoms include drowsiness, dehydration, and air hunger (deep and rapid breathing). However, hyperthermia, which refers to an elevated body temperature, is not a characteristic typically associated with DKA. It is important to monitor and manage DKA promptly as it is a serious complication of diabetes that requires immediate medical attention.