Question Easy:
A 25-year-old woman presents to the GP with symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, and bradycardia. On examination, she has dry skin and puffiness around the eyes. Which blood test would most likely confirm the diagnosis? 🤔
A) Full blood count
B) Blood glucose
C) Thyroid function test
D) Liver function test
E) Renal function test
Question Medium:
A 64-year-old man presents with headaches, visual disturbances, and elevated blood pressure. MRI shows an incidental 2cm pituitary adenoma. Which hormone is most likely responsible for his symptoms?
A) Prolactin
B) Growth hormone
C) ACTH
D) TSH
E) LH
Question Hard:
A patient complains of intense intermittent headaches, excessive sweating, and a sensation of palpitations. Blood tests reveal elevated plasma metanephrines. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Cushing’s syndrome
B) Pheochromocytoma
C) Hyperthyroidism
D) Addison’s disease
E) Acromegaly
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer:
C) Thyroid function test
Question Easy Explanation:
The symptoms described are characteristic of hypothyroidism, which can be confirmed with a thyroid function test indicating elevated TSH and low T4. According to NICE guidelines, particularly in primary care, checking thyroid function is essential when these signs and symptoms are present. 🌿
Question Medium Answer:
B) Growth hormone
Question Medium Explanation:
The patient’s symptoms align with acromegaly, a condition often caused by a growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma. Headaches and visual disturbances occur because the adenoma may press on surrounding tissues, and hypertension results from systemic effects of excess growth hormone. NICE guidelines suggest monitoring growth hormone levels in suspected pituitary adenoma cases.
Question Hard Answer:
B) Pheochromocytoma
Question Hard Explanation:
The characteristic triad of pheochromocytoma includes episodic headaches, sweating, and tachycardia due to excessive catecholamine secretion. The elevated plasma metanephrines are a diagnostic clue, as recommended by NHS guidelines, where pheochromocytoma should be considered in cases of resistant hypertension and typical symptom presentation.
Medical fact of the day:
Did you know? The pituitary gland is often dubbed the “master gland” because it plays a pivotal role in regulating hormones linked to growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes. Despite its small size – about as big as a pea – it controls critical functions throughout the body! 🧠
Quote of the day:
“Every pulse you feel and every chart you review brings you closer to unveiling the mysteries of healing. Stay curious, committed, and compassionate.” 🌟