Endocrinology Exam Questions Related

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Which of the following investigations is the gold standard for diagnosing acromegaly?

  • A. Serum IGF1 measurement
  • B. Growth hormone releasing hormone measurement
  • C. Oral glucose tolerance test + Growth hormone measurement
  • D. Growth hormone measurement
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The gold standard for diagnosing acromegaly is the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) along with growth hormone (GH) measurement. During this test, the patient is given a glucose solution to drink, and then blood samples are taken to measure GH levels at specific time intervals. In a person without acromegaly, glucose ingestion would typically suppress GH levels. However, in individuals with acromegaly, GH levels remain elevated even after glucose administration due to the inability of glucose to inhibit GH release from the tumor.