ATI RN
Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
Acromegaly is associated with all of the following except:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In understanding why acromegaly is associated with certain features, we must delve into the pathophysiology of the condition. Acromegaly results from excess growth hormone (GH) production, usually due to a pituitary adenoma. This excess GH leads to various manifestations, including soft tissue and skeletal overgrowth. A) Acanthosis nigricans is not typically associated with acromegaly. This skin condition is more commonly linked to insulin resistance in conditions like diabetes. B) Fibromata mollusca, also known as skin tags, can be seen in individuals with acromegaly due to the excessive tissue growth characteristic of the condition. C) Micrognathia, or a small jaw, is not a feature of acromegaly. In fact, individuals with acromegaly often present with a prominent jaw due to overgrowth of facial bones. D) Cardiomegaly, or an enlarged heart, is a known complication of acromegaly. Excess GH can lead to cardiovascular complications such as hypertrophy and dilation of the heart chambers. Educationally, understanding the clinical manifestations of acromegaly is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize and diagnose this condition early. Differentiating between features associated with acromegaly and those that are not helps in accurate diagnosis and management of patients with this disorder.
Question 2 of 5
Which cranial nerve is not involved in acromegaly?
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.
Question 3 of 5
Sheehan's syndrome presents with:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sheehan's syndrome, also known as postpartum hypopituitarism, is a condition characterized by pituitary gland dysfunction due to severe blood loss during childbirth, resulting in ischemic necrosis of the pituitary gland. As a consequence of pituitary hormone deficiency, one of the hallmark manifestations of Sheehan's syndrome is persistent lactation despite stopping breastfeeding. This occurs due to inadequate prolactin inhibition, leading to continuous milk production. Other common symptoms of Sheehan's syndrome include fatigue, weight loss, menstrual irregularities, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, and other pituitary hormone deficiencies. Cardiac failure, fever, and striking cachexia are not typical presentations associated with Sheehan's syndrome.
Question 4 of 5
Hypocalcemia is produced by all except:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In understanding why osteomalacia (option D) does not produce hypocalcemia, it is crucial to grasp the pathophysiology of this condition. Osteomalacia is a disorder characterized by defective mineralization of bone matrix, primarily due to Vitamin D deficiency. While osteomalacia results in weakened bones and bone pain, it does not directly lead to low levels of calcium in the blood. On the contrary, the other options listed can cause hypocalcemia through various mechanisms. Hysterical hypoventilation (option A) can lead to respiratory alkalosis, shifting calcium binding to albumin and causing hypocalcemia. Acute pancreatitis (option B) can result in calcium precipitation within the pancreas, leading to hypocalcemia. Chronic renal failure (option C) can impair the activation of Vitamin D and decrease calcium absorption, contributing to hypocalcemia. In an educational context, understanding the differential causes of hypocalcemia is vital for healthcare professionals to make accurate diagnoses and provide appropriate treatments. Pharmacology plays a critical role in managing such conditions, as medications may be needed to correct imbalances or support organ function. This question highlights the importance of clinical knowledge and the ability to differentiate between various etiologies of hypocalcemia, ultimately improving patient care outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
Thyrotoxicosis may be featured by all except:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Thyrotoxicosis, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a condition characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production by the thyroid gland. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis can include weight loss, heat intolerance, tremors, hyperactivity, and fatigue. While musculoskeletal symptoms such as weakness and tremors are common in thyrotoxicosis, true myopathy (muscle disease) is not a typical feature of the condition. Therefore, myopathy is the correct choice among the given options.