All of the following are potential signs or symptoms of growth hormone deficiency except:

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.

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: 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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Acromegaly is a disorder caused by excessive growth hormone production after the closure of the epiphyses (growth plates) in bones, leading to abnormal growth of tissues and organs. The following options are associated with 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

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Prolactin levels can be increased by various factors, including chest wall trauma, pregnancy, and renal failure. However, hyperthyroidism is not typically associated with elevated prolactin levels. In fact, hyperthyroidism is more commonly associated with decreased levels of prolactin due to the inhibitory effect of thyroid hormones on prolactin secretion. Therefore, all of the options except for hyperthyroidism would be expected to increase prolactin levels.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The posterior pituitary gland secretes anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, which are produced in the hypothalamus and then transported and stored in the posterior pituitary before being released into the bloodstream. ADH, also known as vasopressin, helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. Oxytocin, on the other hand, plays a role in various reproductive functions such as labor and lactation, as well as social bonding and behavior.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Myxoedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism characterized by a range of symptoms and signs. Ascites, cerebellar ataxia, and increased incidence of pernicious anaemia are recognized features of myxoedema. However, thyroid acropachy is not a recognized feature of myxoedema. Thyroid acropachy is a condition characterized by clubbing of the fingers and toes, swelling of the hands and feet, and periosteal new bone formation, typically seen in patients with Graves' disease, which is a form of hyperthyroidism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: ADH (antidiuretic hormone), also known as vasopressin, is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. ADH plays a key role in regulating water balance in the body by controlling the reabsorption of water in the kidneys. When the body senses a decrease in blood volume or an increase in blood osmolarity, ADH is released to signal the kidneys to conserve water, leading to concentrated urine production and water retention in the body.