A patient has been receiving a large dose of prednisone for the relief of arthritic pain for 6 months. He suddenly stops taking his medication. What is the most serious concern?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: He will develop an acute adrenal insufficiency. When a patient abruptly stops taking a large dose of prednisone after long-term use, it can suppress the body's natural production of cortisol. This sudden withdrawal can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a potentially life-threatening condition. The adrenal glands may not be able to produce enough cortisol to meet the body's needs, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, low blood pressure, and even shock. This is a serious concern that requires medical attention. Incorrect choices: A: His arthritic pain will recur - While this is a valid concern, it is not the most serious issue compared to acute adrenal insufficiency. C: He will continue to exhibit symptoms of Cushing syndrome - Cushing syndrome is a result of prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, not sudden withdrawal. D: He will develop a moon face and buffalo hump - These are physical symptoms associated with Cushing syndrome, not acute adrenal

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Thyroid. The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones T3 and T4, which regulate the body's metabolic rate. These hormones control the basal metabolic rate (BMR) by influencing the rate at which cells use energy. The other choices, B: Parathyroid, C: Testes, and D: Pancreas, do not directly control BMR. Parathyroid regulates calcium levels, Testes produce hormones related to reproduction, and Pancreas regulates blood sugar levels through insulin and glucagon secretion. Thyroid is the only gland among the choices that specifically influences BMR.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: sweat gland. Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, affecting distant target organs. Sweat glands, on the other hand, are exocrine glands that release sweat onto the skin surface to regulate body temperature. The adrenal glands, thyroid gland, and pituitary gland are all endocrine glands that secrete hormones, making them the correct choices. A sweat gland does not secrete hormones into the bloodstream, so it does not qualify as an endocrine gland.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: 1. Oxytocin is released during childbirth to stimulate uterine contractions. 2. As contractions increase, oxytocin secretion is further stimulated in a positive feedback loop. 3. This positive feedback mechanism amplifies the contractions until delivery. 4. Calcitonin regulates calcium levels, histamine is involved in allergic responses, and melatonin regulates sleep-wake cycles. Summary: - Calcitonin, histamine, and melatonin do not exhibit positive feedback regulation like oxytocin during childbirth.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Adrenal gland. The adrenal gland is located just superior to the kidneys. It is part of the endocrine system and plays a crucial role in producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. The pituitary gland (A) is located in the brain, the pancreas (C) is situated in the abdomen, and the ovaries (D) are found in the pelvic region. The adrenal gland's location and function make it the most appropriate choice in this scenario.