Endocrinology Lesson 6 Quiz

Endocrine System Overview

• Comprises glands that release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions.
• Hormones influence processes including metabolism, growth, and mood.

Hormones

• Classified based on composition into:
  • Peptides and proteins
  • Steroids
  • Amines

Feedback Mechanisms

• Hormonal regulation often involves feedback loops to maintain homeostasis.
• Includes negative and positive feedback processes.

Hypoparathyroidism

• Condition characterized by inadequate hormone production from the parathyroid glands.

Adrenal Gland

• Adrenal cortex produces several hormones, notably cortisol.
• Clinical disorders linked to the adrenal gland include:
  • Hypercortisolism (Cushing Syndrome): Excess cortisol production.
  • Hypocortisolism: Insufficient cortisol, with primary and secondary forms.

ACTH Stimulation Tests

• Utilized to evaluate adrenal function:
  • Insulin Stimulation Test: Assesses response of cortisol levels to insulin.
  • Overnight Metyrapone Test: Evaluates ACTH and cortisol secretion dynamics.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)

• Genetic disorder leading to enzyme deficiencies in steroidogenesis affecting cortisol production.

Aldosterone

• A critical mineralocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex.
• Clinical issues include:
  • Primary Hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s Disease): Overproduction of aldosterone.
  • Secondary Hyperaldosteronism.
  • Hypoaldosteronism: Deficiency of aldosterone.

Weak Androgens / Adrenal Androgens

• Produced in the adrenal glands and play roles in secondary sexual characteristics.

Adrenal Medulla Hormones

• Major hormones include:
  • Norepinephrine (primary amine)
  • Epinephrine (adrenaline; secondary amine)
  • Dopamine (primary amine)
• Pheochromocytoma: A tumor in the adrenal medulla that secretes excess catecholamines.

Reproductive Hormones

• Male reproductive system:
  • Testes produce testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
• Female reproductive system:
  • Ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone.

Pancreas Hormones

• Produces various hormones including:
  • Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
  • Urine Placental Lactogen (HPL)
  • Gastrin
  • Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine)

Thyroid Gland

• Main hormones:
  • Triiodothyronine (T3)
  • Tetraiodothyronine (T4)
• Thyroid hormone binding proteins transport thyroid hormones in circulation.
• Key clinical disorder:
  • Hyperthyroidism, which includes thyrotoxicosis and Graves’ disease (diffuse toxic goiter).

Test your knowledge on the endocrine system with this quiz focusing on key concepts from Lesson 6. Topics include hormones, feedback mechanisms, and specific glands such as the adrenal gland and hypoparathyroidism. Challenge yourself and deepen your understanding of endocrinology!