Which of the following systems work closely with the endocrine system to coordinate the body's functions?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nervous system. The nervous system works closely with the endocrine system to regulate and coordinate the body's functions through the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. The nervous system controls rapid responses, while the endocrine system controls slower, long-term processes. The cardiovascular system (A) primarily transports blood and nutrients, the respiratory system (B) is involved in gas exchange, and the reproductive system (C) is responsible for reproduction, none of which directly coordinate with the endocrine system.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Parthormone. The anterior pituitary gland secretes hormones such as Growth hormone, Follicle stimulating hormone, and Thyroid stimulating hormone, but not Parthormone. Parthormone is actually produced by the parathyroid glands, not the anterior pituitary gland. Parathormone plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. Therefore, choice C is incorrect as it does not belong to the hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hyperpigmentation. Addison's disease is a condition characterized by adrenal insufficiency, leading to decreased production of cortisol and aldosterone. Hyperpigmentation is a common symptom due to elevated levels of ACTH stimulating melanin production. Other choices are incorrect because Addison's disease typically presents with hypotension, weight loss, and bradycardia, rather than hypertension, weight gain, or tachycardia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it plays a crucial role in regulating other endocrine glands in the body. It secretes hormones that control various bodily functions, such as growth, reproduction, and metabolism. The other choices, thyroid, thymus, and hypothalamus, are important glands as well, but they do not have the same broad control over the endocrine system as the pituitary gland. The thyroid regulates metabolism, thymus is involved in immune function, and hypothalamus regulates body temperature, hunger, and thirst. However, none of these glands have the overall regulatory function and influence on other glands as the pituitary gland does.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Obesity. In the given case, the patient most likely has type 1 diabetes, which commonly presents with the symptoms described. The genetic predisposition mentioned (parents diagnosed) also suggests type 1 diabetes. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which is more common in older populations. Therefore, the most common etiological factor associated with diabetes in older populations is obesity. A: Smoking is a risk factor for various diseases, but not typically associated with diabetes. C: Hypertension is a common comorbidity with diabetes, but not a direct etiological factor. D: Infections can sometimes trigger type 1 diabetes, but it is not the most common etiological factor associated with the disease in older populations.