Endocrinology — MCQs
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Which is an immunological marker of type I diabetes?
Acute adrenal insufficiency can present as?
A man presents with weakness, tachycardia, sweating, and palpitations on fasting, which are promptly relieved with food intake. What is the most probable diagnosis?
A mother brings her 10-year-old son to the OPD due to a family history of medullary carcinoma of the thyroid in his father and grandparents. There are no abnormal findings on physical examination. Which of the following tests would you perform?
Adrenal aldosteronoma is best diagnosed by which of the following?
The secretin stimulation test is used for the diagnosis of which of the following conditions?
A 60-year-old woman presents with symptoms of weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations. On examination, she has a thyroid goiter. Which of the following is the most likely cardiac finding?
Hyponatremia is seen in which of the following conditions?
Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of radioactive iodine therapy?
Which diagnostic procedure is not typically performed in cases of pheochromocytoma?
Endocrinology Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 1: Which is an immunological marker of type I diabetes?
- A. Anti-endothelial antibody
- B. GAD (Correct Answer)
- C. Anti-saccharomyces antibody
- D. None of the above
Explanation: **Explanation:** Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells [1]. This process is mediated by T-cells and is associated with the presence of specific autoantibodies that serve as diagnostic and predictive markers [2]. **Why GAD is correct:** **Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD65) antibodies** are the most sensitive and persistent immunological markers for T1DM. GAD is an enzyme involved in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter GABA, but it is also expressed in pancreatic beta cells. GAD antibodies are particularly useful in clinical practice because they remain detectable for years after diagnosis, unlike other antibodies that may disappear shortly after the onset of the disease. They are also used to diagnose **LADA** (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults). **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Anti-endothelial antibody:** These are associated with systemic vasculitides (like Kawasaki disease) or certain connective tissue disorders, not diabetes. * **Anti-saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA):** This is a classic marker for **Crohn’s Disease**, used to differentiate it from Ulcerative Colitis. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Other T1DM Markers:** Islet Cell Antibodies (ICA), Insulin Autoantibodies (IAA), and **Zinc Transporter 8 (ZnT8)** antibodies. * **ZnT8** is often cited as the most specific marker for beta-cell destruction. * **HLA Association:** T1DM is strongly linked to **HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR4** [2]. * **Screening:** The presence of two or more of these antibodies in an asymptomatic child indicates a near 100% lifetime risk of developing clinical T1DM.
Question 2: Acute adrenal insufficiency can present as?
- A. Acute abdomen with abdominal tenderness, nausea, vomiting and fever
- B. Neurologic disease with decreased responsiveness progressing to stupor and coma
- C. Hypovolemic shock
- D. All of the above (Correct Answer)
Explanation: **Explanation:** Acute adrenal insufficiency (Addisonian Crisis) is a life-threatening emergency caused by a sudden, severe deficiency of cortisol (and often aldosterone). It typically occurs in patients with known chronic adrenal insufficiency during periods of stress (infection, surgery) [1] or due to sudden withdrawal of long-term steroid therapy [1]. **Why "All of the Above" is correct:** * **Acute Abdomen (Option A):** Cortisol deficiency leads to severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients often present with intense abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and fever. This clinical picture can mimic a surgical emergency like peritonitis or appendicitis. * **Neurologic Disease (Option B):** Profound hypotension, electrolyte imbalances (hyponatremia), and hypoglycemia associated with adrenal crisis can lead to altered mental status. This manifests as lethargy, confusion, and decreased responsiveness, which can progress to stupor and coma. * **Hypovolemic Shock (Option C):** Aldosterone deficiency leads to "salt wasting" (loss of sodium and water) and hyperkalemia. This causes severe volume depletion and peripheral vascular collapse. The shock is often refractory to vasopressors until glucocorticoids are administered [1]. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Classic Electrolyte Triad:** Hyponatremia, Hyperkalemia, and Hypoglycemia (due to lack of cortisol's gluconeogenic effect). * **Diagnosis:** Do not delay treatment for testing. A random plasma cortisol level <18 mcg/dL in a stressed patient is highly suggestive [1]. * **Management:** Immediate IV fluid resuscitation (Normal Saline) and high-dose **IV Hydrocortisone** (100mg bolus, then 200mg/24h) [1]. Hydrocortisone is preferred because it provides both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid activity. * **Waterhouse-Friderichsen Syndrome:** Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage due to meningococcemia is a classic cause of acute crisis.
Question 3: A man presents with weakness, tachycardia, sweating, and palpitations on fasting, which are promptly relieved with food intake. What is the most probable diagnosis?
- A. Insulinoma (Correct Answer)
- B. Pancreatic carcinoma
- C. Carcinoid syndrome
- D. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Explanation: ### Explanation The clinical presentation described is a classic manifestation of **Whipple’s Triad**, which is the hallmark of an **Insulinoma**. **1. Why Insulinoma is correct:** Insulinoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreatic beta cells that secretes insulin autonomously, regardless of blood glucose levels. The patient exhibits symptoms of **fasting hypoglycemia**: * **Autonomic symptoms:** Tachycardia, sweating, and palpitations (due to catecholamine release). * **Neuroglycopenic symptoms:** Weakness and confusion. * **Relief with food:** The prompt resolution of symptoms after eating completes Whipple’s Triad, making Insulinoma the most probable diagnosis. **2. Why the other options are incorrect:** * **Pancreatic carcinoma:** Typically presents with painless obstructive jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. It does not cause fasting hypoglycemia. * **Carcinoid syndrome:** Characterized by flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing due to serotonin release [1]. Symptoms are usually triggered by alcohol or stress, not fasting. * **Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (Gastrinoma):** Caused by excessive gastrin secretion leading to severe peptic ulcers and chronic diarrhea, not hypoglycemia. **3. High-Yield NEET-PG Pearls:** * **Whipple’s Triad:** 1. Symptoms of hypoglycemia; 2. Low plasma glucose (<55 mg/dL); 3. Relief of symptoms after glucose administration. * **Diagnosis:** The gold standard is the **72-hour supervised fast**. * **Biochemical markers:** During hypoglycemia, an insulinoma patient will show **elevated Insulin**, **elevated C-peptide**, and **elevated Pro-insulin** levels, with **absent urinary sulfonylureas** [1]. * **Localization:** Most insulinomas are small, benign, and solitary. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is highly sensitive for localization. * **Association:** 10% are associated with **MEN1 syndrome** (usually multiple tumors).
Question 4: A mother brings her 10-year-old son to the OPD due to a family history of medullary carcinoma of the thyroid in his father and grandparents. There are no abnormal findings on physical examination. Which of the following tests would you perform?
- A. Serum insulin level
- B. Serum glucagon level
- C. Urine vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) level (Correct Answer)
- D. Serum somatostatin level
Explanation: **Explanation:** The clinical scenario describes a child with a strong family history of **Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)**, which strongly suggests **Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2)** syndrome (specifically MEN 2A or 2B). These syndromes are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion due to mutations in the **RET proto-oncogene** [1]. **Why Option C is correct:** Patients with MEN 2 are at high risk for developing **Pheochromocytoma** (often bilateral) in addition to MTC [1]. In clinical practice, when a patient is suspected of having MEN 2, it is mandatory to **rule out Pheochromocytoma before any surgical intervention** for the thyroid. This is because an undiagnosed pheochromocytoma can lead to a fatal hypertensive crisis during anesthesia or surgery. Screening is done via 24-hour **Urine VMA**, metanephrines, or plasma free metanephrines [1]. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Options A, B, and D:** Serum insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin are markers for pancreatic islet cell tumors [1]. These are characteristic of **MEN 1** (Wermer’s Syndrome), which involves the "3 Ps": Pituitary, Parathyroid, and Pancreas. MEN 1 is *not* associated with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **MEN 2A (Sipple Syndrome):** MTC + Pheochromocytoma + Parathyroid Hyperplasia. * **MEN 2B:** MTC + Pheochromocytoma + Mucosal Neuromas + Marfanoid Habitus. * **Prophylactic Thyroidectomy:** In children with known RET mutations, thyroidectomy is often performed early (before age 5 in MEN 2A, or within the 1st year in MEN 2B) because MTC in these patients is highly aggressive [1]. * **Rule of thumb:** Always screen for and treat Pheochromocytoma *first* before addressing the thyroid.
Question 5: Adrenal aldosteronoma is best diagnosed by which of the following?
- A. HRCT (Correct Answer)
- B. MRI
- C. JVP
- D. KUB
Explanation: **Explanation:** Adrenal aldosteronoma (Conn’s Syndrome) is a common cause of primary hyperaldosteronism, typically presenting with the triad of hypertension, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis. **Why HRCT is the Correct Answer:** High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) or Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT) of the abdomen is the **initial imaging modality of choice** for localizing an adrenal mass once biochemical diagnosis (elevated Aldosterone-to-Renin Ratio) is confirmed [1]. Aldosteronomas are typically small (usually <2 cm), solitary, and hypodense (due to high lipid content) [1]. HRCT provides superior spatial resolution compared to other modalities, allowing for precise anatomical localization necessary for surgical planning (laparoscopic adrenalectomy) [1]. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **B. MRI:** While MRI is sensitive, it is generally not superior to CT for small adrenal adenomas and is more expensive and time-consuming [1]. It is reserved for patients with contraindications to CT contrast or pregnancy. * **C. JVP:** Jugular Venous Pressure is a clinical assessment of fluid status and right heart pressure. While patients with Conn’s syndrome have volume expansion, they rarely present with clinical edema or significantly raised JVP due to the "aldosterone escape" phenomenon. * **D. KUB:** A Kidney-Ureter-Bladder X-ray is used for detecting radiopaque renal stones or bowel gas patterns; it has no role in visualizing small, soft-tissue adrenal tumors. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Screening Test:** Plasma Aldosterone Concentration (PAC) to Plasma Renin Activity (PRA) ratio. A ratio **>20-30** is highly suggestive. 2. **Confirmatory Test:** Oral or IV Saline Suppression Test (failure to suppress aldosterone). 3. **Gold Standard for Lateralization:** Adrenal Venous Sampling (AVS) is the most accurate method to differentiate between a unilateral adenoma and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia if CT is inconclusive [1]. 4. **Medical Management:** Spironolactone (Aldosterone antagonist) is the drug of choice for bilateral hyperplasia or nonsurgical candidates [1].
Question 6: The secretin stimulation test is used for the diagnosis of which of the following conditions?
- A. Gastrinoma (Correct Answer)
- B. Pituitary adenoma
- C. Incidentaloma
- D. Insulinoma
Explanation: The **Secretin Stimulation Test** is the most sensitive and specific provocative test for diagnosing **Gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome)**, particularly when fasting gastrin levels are suggestive but not diagnostic (between 200–1000 pg/mL). **1. Why Gastrinoma is correct:** Under normal physiological conditions, secretin inhibits gastric acid secretion and gastrin release from G-cells. However, **gastrinoma cells** (neuroendocrine tumor cells) possess secretin receptors that, when stimulated, paradoxically cause a massive release of gastrin. A positive test is defined as a rise in serum gastrin levels of **>200 pg/mL** above the baseline following an intravenous bolus of secretin. **2. Why other options are incorrect:** * **Pituitary Adenoma:** Diagnosed via hormonal assays (e.g., Prolactin, GH) and MRI brain. Secretin has no physiological role in the pituitary axis. * **Incidentaloma:** This is an asymptomatic adrenal mass found accidentally on imaging. Diagnosis involves ruling out malignancy and hormonal hypersecretion (e.g., dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing’s). * **Insulinoma:** Diagnosed using the **72-hour fasting test**, which demonstrates the "Whipple’s Triad" (hypoglycemic symptoms, low plasma glucose, and relief of symptoms after glucose administration). **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **ZES Location:** Most gastrinomas are found in the **"Gastrinoma Triangle"** (bounded by the confluence of the cystic/common bile duct, the junction of the 2nd and 3rd portions of the duodenum, and the neck/body of the pancreas). * **MEN-1 Association:** Approximately 25% of gastrinomas are associated with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (3Ps: Pituitary, Parathyroid, Pancreas). * **Initial Screening:** The first step in diagnosis is measuring **Fasting Serum Gastrin (FSG)** levels while the patient is off Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs).
Question 7: A 60-year-old woman presents with symptoms of weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations. On examination, she has a thyroid goiter. Which of the following is the most likely cardiac finding?
- A. Prolonged circulation time
- B. Decreased cardiac output
- C. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (Correct Answer)
- D. Pericardial effusion
Explanation: The clinical presentation of weight loss, anxiety, palpitations, and a goiter in an elderly patient is highly suggestive of **Hyperthyroidism** (likely Toxic Multinodular Goiter or Graves' disease). **1. Why Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation is Correct:** Thyroid hormones have a direct stimulatory effect on the myocardium and increase the expression of beta-adrenergic receptors. This leads to increased heart rate, contractility, and cardiac irritability. **Atrial Fibrillation (AF)** is the most common rhythm disturbance in hyperthyroidism, occurring in 10–15% of patients, particularly in those over age 60 [1]. It often starts as paroxysmal episodes before becoming persistent. In older patients, tachycardia or atrial fibrillation are prominent signs [3]. **2. Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **Prolonged circulation time:** In hyperthyroidism, the circulation time is actually **shortened** due to increased cardiac output and rapid blood flow. Prolonged circulation time is a feature of hypothyroidism or congestive heart failure. * **Decreased cardiac output:** Hyperthyroidism causes a **high-output state**. Thyroid hormones decrease systemic vascular resistance and increase stroke volume and heart rate, leading to elevated cardiac output. * **Pericardial effusion:** This is a classic finding in **Hypothyroidism** (Myxedema), caused by increased capillary permeability and decreased lymphatic drainage. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Apathetic Hyperthyroidism:** In elderly patients, typical signs like tremors or goiter may be absent; they may present only with unexplained AF or heart failure [3]. * **Treatment:** The first-line management for symptomatic tachycardia/AF in hyperthyroidism is **Beta-blockers** (e.g., Propranolol) to control adrenergic symptoms [2]. * **Reversibility:** AF in hyperthyroidism often reverts to sinus rhythm once a euthyroid state is achieved, especially in younger patients.
Question 8: Hyponatremia is seen in which of the following conditions?
- A. Hyperthyroidism
- B. Hypothyroidism (Correct Answer)
- C. Diabetes Mellitus
- D. Increased insensible water loss
Explanation: **Explanation:** **Hypothyroidism** is a well-recognized cause of euvolemic hyponatremia [1]. The underlying pathophysiology involves two primary mechanisms: 1. **Increased ADH Secretion:** Severe hypothyroidism leads to a decrease in cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. This triggers the "non-osmotic" release of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) via carotid baroreceptors, leading to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia [1]. 2. **Reduced Free Water Clearance:** Thyroid hormones are essential for achieving maximum urinary dilution. Their deficiency reduces the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and impairs the delivery of filtrate to the distal nephron, limiting the kidney's ability to excrete free water [1]. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Hyperthyroidism:** Generally does not cause hyponatremia; it is more commonly associated with hypercalcemia due to increased bone turnover. * **Diabetes Mellitus:** While uncontrolled DM can cause "pseudohyponatremia" (hyperglycemia shifts water from ICF to ECF), the primary electrolyte concern is osmotic diuresis leading to dehydration. * **Increased Insensible Water Loss:** (e.g., fever, sweating) results in the loss of hypotonic fluid, which typically leads to **hypernatremia** due to a relative deficit of free water. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * Hyponatremia in hypothyroidism is usually seen in severe cases or **Myxedema Coma**. [1] * It is classified as **Euvolemic Hyponatremia** (similar to SIADH) [1]. * **Rule of thumb:** If a patient has hyponatremia and elevated TSH, thyroid hormone replacement (Levothyroxine) will usually correct the sodium levels without requiring fluid restriction.
Question 9: Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of radioactive iodine therapy?
- A. Hypothyroidism
- B. High chances of relapse (Correct Answer)
- C. Delayed therapeutic effect
- D. Development of thyroid carcinoma
Explanation: Radioactive Iodine (RAI), specifically **I-131**, is a definitive treatment for hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease and Toxic Multinodular Goiter). [1] ### **Explanation of the Correct Answer** **Option B (High chances of relapse)** is the correct answer because it is **not** a disadvantage. In fact, RAI is highly effective with a success rate exceeding 80-90% after a single dose. Unlike Antithyroid Drugs (ATDs), which have a relapse rate of approximately 50-60% after discontinuation, RAI provides a permanent solution by destroying the overactive thyroid follicular cells. ### **Analysis of Incorrect Options** * **A. Hypothyroidism:** This is the most common long-term complication of RAI. Since the goal is to ablate the gland, most patients eventually become hypothyroid (up to 80% in the first year) and require lifelong Levothyroxine. * **C. Delayed therapeutic effect:** RAI does not work instantly. It takes **2–3 months** to achieve a euthyroid state. Patients often require "pretreatment" with beta-blockers or ATDs to control symptoms during this lag period. * **D. Development of thyroid carcinoma:** While large-scale studies show no significant increase in thyroid cancer risk in adults, the *theoretical* risk of secondary malignancy and the potential for genetic damage in young patients remain classic "textbook" concerns and contraindications for children and pregnant women. [1] ### **NEET-PG Clinical Pearls** * **Absolute Contraindications:** Pregnancy (causes fetal thyroid ablation) and Breastfeeding. [1] * **Relative Contraindication:** Severe Graves' Ophthalmopathy (RAI can worsen proptosis; prophylactic steroids are given if RAI is used). [1] * **Mechanism:** I-131 emits **Beta-particles** (responsible for tissue destruction) and Gamma-rays (used for imaging). * **Pre-procedure:** Stop Methimazole 3–5 days before RAI to ensure maximum iodine uptake.
Question 10: Which diagnostic procedure is not typically performed in cases of pheochromocytoma?
- A. CT scan
- B. MRI
- C. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) (Correct Answer)
- D. MIBG scan
Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **C. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)**. In cases of suspected pheochromocytoma, FNAC is strictly **contraindicated**. This is because the mechanical trauma of the needle can trigger a massive, uncontrolled release of catecholamines from the tumor. This "catecholamine storm" can lead to a life-threatening hypertensive crisis, cardiac arrhythmias, or hemorrhage within the tumor. Diagnosis is primarily biochemical (metanephrines) followed by imaging; biopsy is never required for diagnosis and is dangerous. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **A. CT Scan:** This is the initial imaging modality of choice for localizing the tumor due to its excellent spatial resolution. Pheochromocytomas typically appear as hypervascular masses with high attenuation (>10 HU) on non-contrast CT. * **B. MRI:** Highly sensitive for detecting pheochromocytomas. On T2-weighted images, these tumors often exhibit a characteristic "light bulb" appearance (hyperintensity). MRI is preferred in children, pregnant women, or patients with contrast allergies. * **D. MIBG Scan:** Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) is a functional imaging study used to detect extra-adrenal (paragangliomas) or metastatic disease that may be missed by CT/MRI. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Rule of 10s:** 10% are bilateral, 10% are malignant, 10% are extra-adrenal, and 10% are familial. * **Biochemical Screening:** 24-hour urinary fractionated metanephrines or plasma free metanephrines are the first-line tests. * **Pre-operative Management:** Always start **Alpha-blockers first** (e.g., Phenoxybenzamine) followed by Beta-blockers to avoid an unopposed alpha-mediated hypertensive crisis.
Practice by Chapter
Diabetes Mellitus
Practice Questions
Thyroid Disorders
Practice Questions
Adrenal Gland Disorders
Practice Questions
Pituitary Disorders
Practice Questions
Calcium and Bone Metabolism
Practice Questions
Reproductive Endocrinology
Practice Questions
Lipid Disorders
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Endocrine Hypertension
Practice Questions
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
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Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
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Neuroendocrine Tumors
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Endocrine Emergencies
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