Which of the following is not a function of binding proteins?
- A. Bind protein hormones
- B. Bind steroid hormones
- C. Bind thyroid hormones
- D. Mediate hormonal effects
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Binding proteins are essential in transporting hormones through the bloodstream and protecting them from rapid degradation by enzymes. These proteins do not actually mediate the hormonal effects themselves. Hormonal effects are typically mediated by the hormone-receptor interactions at target cells. Binding proteins primarily serve as carriers for hormones and maintain their stability and availability in the circulation.
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All of the following represent examples of hypothalamic-pituitary negative feedback except:
- A. Cortisol on the CRH-ACTH axis
- B. Gonadal steroids on the GnRH-LH/FSH axis
- C. IGF-1 on the growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)-GH axis
- D. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis does not involve the hypothalamus or pituitary gland; instead, it primarily involves the kidneys and the renin-secreting cells. In this axis, renin is released in response to low blood pressure, leading to the formation of angiotensin II and the subsequent release of aldosterone from the adrenal glands. Feedback mechanisms for this axis primarily involve the regulation of renin release based on blood pressure rather than involving direct negative feedback from downstream hormones on the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. On the other hand, choices A, B, and C all involve classic examples of hypothalamic-pituitary negative feedback loops where the end hormone suppresses the release of the stimulating hormones at the hypothalamic and pituitary levels.
Which of the following tests should be used to make the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome?
- A. 24-hour urine free cortisol
- B. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) level at 8 a.m.
- C. Inferior petrosal venous sampling
- D. Overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test is commonly used as an initial screening test for Cushing's syndrome. In this test, a patient takes 1 mg of dexamethasone orally at 11 p.m., and their serum cortisol level is measured the next morning. In patients with Cushing's syndrome, the cortisol levels will not be suppressed by the dexamethasone due to the presence of excessive cortisol production.
Commonest cause of 'ambiguous genitalia' in newborn is:
- A. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- B. True hermaphroditism
- C. Testicular ferminisation syndrome
- D. Pseudo-hermaphroditism
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the most common cause of ambiguous genitalia in newborns. This condition is due to a deficiency of enzymes in the adrenal gland that are necessary for the production of cortisol. As a result, the body produces excess androgens (masculinizing hormones), leading to abnormal genital development in females. The external genitalia may appear ambiguous, with features of both male and female genitalia. This condition can be detected through newborn screening and confirmed through further hormonal and genetic testing. Treatment involves hormone replacement therapy to normalize hormone levels and surgery may be required to reconstruct the genitalia.
In males which hormone stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone?
- A. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
- B. Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- C. hormone
- D. insipidus
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In males, Leydig cells in the testes are stimulated to produce testosterone by luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and acts on the Leydig cells to promote the synthesis and release of testosterone. This hormone plays a crucial role in male reproductive function and the development of masculine characteristics. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a role in spermatogenesis in males but does not directly stimulate Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
Hypocalcemia is produced by all except:
- A. Hysterical hypoventilation
- B. Acute pancreatitis
- C. Chronic renal failure
- D. Osteomalacia
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Osteomalacia is a condition in which there is a softening of the bones due to a deficiency in vitamin D or calcium. It is not a cause of hypocalcemia, as it is a result of low levels of calcium in the bloodstream. The other options listed are potential causes of hypocalcemia: