Which of the following statements best describes Cushing's syndrome?
- A. Cushing's syndrome refers to a disease process caused by abnormally high levels of cortisol
- B. Cushing's syndrome refers to a disease process caused by abnormally low levels of aldosterone
- C. Cushing's syndrome refers to a disease process caused by abnormally high levels of aldosterone
- D. Cushing's syndrome refers to a disease process caused by abnormally low levels of cortisol
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cushing's syndrome is a condition characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and stress response. When there is an overproduction of cortisol, either due to excessive production by the adrenal glands or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, it can result in Cushing's syndrome. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and irregularities in menstruation. It is important to diagnose and manage Cushing's syndrome to prevent potential complications such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.
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Which one of the following statements is true regarding the prevalence of acromegaly?
- A. Acromegaly affects a similar number of men and women
- B. Acromegaly affects twice as many women than men
- C. Acromegaly affects twice as many men than it does women
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder where excess growth hormone is produced, leading to the enlargement of bones and tissues. The prevalence of acromegaly is higher in men compared to women, with a ratio of about two men affected for every woman. This gender difference is believed to be due to the impact of sex hormones on the development and progression of the condition. While acromegaly can affect both men and women, men are more commonly diagnosed with the disorder.
All of the following are potential signs or symptoms of growth hormone deficiency except:
- A. Abnormal lipid profile
- B. Atherosclerosis
- C. Increased bone mineral density
- D. Left ventricular dysfunction
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is commonly associated with decreased bone mineral density, leading to an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Therefore, increased bone mineral density would not typically be a sign or symptom of GHD. On the other hand, abnormal lipid profile, atherosclerosis, and left ventricular dysfunction are all potential signs or symptoms of GHD. Abnormal lipid profile can manifest as increased levels of LDL cholesterol and decreased levels of HDL cholesterol. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, can occur in individuals with GHD due to the impact on lipid metabolism. Left ventricular dysfunction may also be seen in individuals with GHD due to the role of growth hormone in cardiac function and structure.
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.
Which of the followings is consistent with neuropathic pain due to diabetes:
- A. Burning pain
- B. Electric shock quality
- C. Tingling
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Neuropathic pain due to diabetes can present with a variety of symptoms, including burning pain, electric shock quality, and tingling sensation. These symptoms are commonly reported by individuals with diabetic neuropathy, which is the most common form of neuropathic pain associated with diabetes. The combination of these sensations can significantly impact the quality of life for those living with diabetes and neuropathic pain. Therefore, all of the above options are consistent with neuropathic pain due to diabetes.
Which of the following are not causes of neurogenic diabetes insipidus?
- A. Sheehan's syndrome
- B. Mutations in the vasopressin (ADH) receptor gene
- C. Meningitis
- D. Mutations in the vasopressin gene
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Neurogenic diabetes insipidus is due to a deficiency in vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH) production in the hypothalamus or a failure of proper vasopressin release from the posterior pituitary. Causes of neurogenic DI typically involve factors affecting vasopressin synthesis, storage, or release. However, mutations in the vasopressin gene itself would be a cause of genetic forms of diabetes insipidus, not neurogenic diabetes insipidus. Common causes of neurogenic diabetes insipidus include traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, pituitary adenomas, meningitis, and Sheehan's syndrome.