Which of the following is not a symptom of Cushing's syndrome?

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: 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.

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: A

Rationale: Hypertonicity (increased osmolarity or high concentration of solutes in the blood) is the most potent stimulus for the hypothalamic production of arginine vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone or ADH). When the body senses increased plasma osmolality, the osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus stimulate the release of vasopressin from the posterior pituitary gland. Vasopressin acts on the kidneys to increase water reabsorption and decrease urine output, helping to restore normal osmolarity. This mechanism helps to conserve water and maintain body fluid balance in response to dehydration or increased solute concentration in the blood.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Postmenopausal estrogen therapy has been shown to have a protective effect on bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, including hip fractures. Estrogen therapy helps to maintain bone strength and reduce the chances of fractures in postmenopausal women. Therefore, estrogen therapy does not increase the risk of hip fractures; in fact, it may decrease the risk of hip fractures in this population.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones, specifically thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). TSH secretion is regulated by the hypothalamus via the release of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). TRH acts on the anterior pituitary gland to stimulate the production and release of TSH. Therefore, TSH secretion is indeed inhibited by TRH, not stimulated as in the other options.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: While African race is considered a protective factor against the development of osteoporosis due to higher peak bone mass and lower fracture rates compared to other races, the other factors listed (current cigarette smoking, female sex, and physical inactivity) are all established risk factors for the development of osteoporotic fractures. African-American individuals, in general, have a lower risk of osteoporosis and fractures compared to Caucasians and Asians.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.