ENDOCRINE Flashcards
What is Triiodothyronine (T3)?
Contains 3 iodine atoms.
What is Thyroxine (T4)?
Contains 4 iodine atoms.
What does Calcitonin regulate?
Regulates calcium levels in the blood.
How does T3 and T4 regulate TSH?
↓ T3/T4 → ↑ TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone).
↑ T3/T4 → ↓ TSH.
How does Calcitonin regulate serum calcium levels?
↑ Calcitonin → ↑ serum calcium levels.
↓ Serum calcium → ↓ calcitonin secretion.
What is the euthyroid state?
A state of normal thyroid function.
What is the primary function of the thyroid?
Regulates metabolism.
What is a goiter?
Thyroid enlargement.
What is hyperfunction in relation to the thyroid?
Overactive thyroid.
What is hypofunction in relation to the thyroid?
Underactive thyroid.
What are common causes of hyperthyroidism?
Exogenous thyroid hormone and endogenous thyroid hormone.
Who is most commonly affected by hyperthyroidism?
Most common in women aged 20–40; women affected 8–10 times more than men.
What is Graves’ Disease?
Presence of TRAB (thyroid receptor antibodies) and TSI (thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins).
What are clinical manifestations of hyperthyroidism?
Fine tremors, insomnia, weight loss, palpitations, warm moist skin, menstrual irregularities.
What is pretibial myxedema?
Swelling and thickening of skin on the lower legs.
What is exophthalmos?
Protrusion of the eyes, eyelid lag, and globe lag.
What are the grades of goiter?
Grade 0: No palpable/visible goiter.
Grade 1: Goiter palpable, moves with swallowing.
Grade 2: Visible and asymmetrical goiter.
What are potential complications of hyperthyroidism?
Atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis, cardiac effects.
What tests are used to diagnose hyperthyroidism?
TRH stimulation test, serum TSH, Free T3, and T4 levels.
What are the management goals for hyperthyroidism?
Remove the underlying cause, reduce thyroid hyperactivity, provide symptomatic relief, prevent complications.
What are beta blockers used for in hyperthyroidism?
Controls tachycardia and nervousness.
Contraindicated with diabetes, late pregnancy, bleeding disorders.
What is radioactive iodine therapy (RAI)?
Most patients achieve euthyroid state in 3–6 months; potential hypothyroidism as a side effect.
What is myxedema?
Severe hypothyroidism with respiratory failure, subnormal temperature, cardiovascular issues.
What is the treatment for myxedema coma?
IV glucose, thyroid hormone replacement, corticosteroids, maintain vital functions.
What is the primary medication for hypothyroidism?
Levothyroxine: Titrated slowly to avoid cardiovascular complications.
What should patients with hyperthyroidism avoid?
Avoid stimulants like caffeine.
What is the nursing care for postoperative thyroidectomy?
High-calorie, high-protein diet; monitor I&O; prevent neck hyperextension.
