Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers -Nurselytic

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The adrenal cortex is the outer region of the adrenal glands and is responsible for producing several hormones, including aldosterone. Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body. It helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance by acting on the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and water while excreting potassium in the urine. Adrenaline and noradrenaline (also known as epinephrine and norepinephrine) are produced by the adrenal medulla, which is the inner region of the adrenal glands. Cortisol is another hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, but aldosterone specifically regulates electrolyte balance.

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.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder caused by the overproduction of growth hormone in adulthood, usually due to a pituitary tumor. The cranial nerves that may be affected in acromegaly are Cranial Nerves III, IV, VI (oculomotor, trochlear, abducens) due to compression of the optic chiasm by the expanding tumor. Cranial Nerve V (trigeminal nerve) may also be affected given its close proximity to the pituitary gland. However, Cranial Nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear nerve) is not typically involved in acromegaly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Primary hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by the parathyroid glands, leading to elevated levels of calcium in the blood. This excessive calcium can cause calcification in various tissues, including the basal ganglia of the brain. The calcification of the basal ganglia in primary hyperparathyroidism is a well-known radiological finding and can be visualized on imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI. Hypoparathyroidism, on the other hand, is characterized by low levels of PTH and results in decreased serum calcium levels, making it an unlikely cause of basal ganglia calcification. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is associated with chronic kidney disease and is also characterized by high PTH levels, but basal ganglia calcification is not a typical manifestation of this condition. Milk-alkali syndrome is a disorder characterized by excessive intake of