Endocrine Conditions

Question 1

What are some common characteristics of hypothyroidism?

Answer 1

Depression/anxiety
Proximal muscle weakness, trigger points, increase bone density
CHF, angina, increase in cholesterol
Anorexia, constipation, weight gain

Question 2

What are some common characteristics hypoparathyroidism?

Answer 2

• Decreased bone reabsorption
• Hypocalcemia
• Shortened 5th and 5th metacarpals
• cardiac arrhythmias
• Increased neuromuscular activity

Question 3

What are some common characteristics of hyperparathyroidism

Answer 3

Increased bone resorption 
Hypercalcemia
Hyperkalemia
Hyponatremia
Decreased serum phosphate levels
Gout
Decreased neuromuscular irritability

Question 4

Describe Addison’s disease (Adrenal insufficiency)

Answer 4

Partial or complete failure of adrenocortical function; results in decreased production of cortisol and aldosterone

Question 5

What are some of the common signs and symptoms of Addison’s?

Answer 5

Increased bronze pigmentation
Weakness, decreased endurance
Anorexia, dehydration, weight loss GI disturbances
Anxiety, depression
Decreased tolerance to cold

Question 6

Describe Cushing’s syndrome

Answer 6

Metabolic disorder resulting from chronic and excessive production of cortisol by the adrenal cortex
Most common cause is a pituitary tumor with increase in ACTH levels

Question 7

What are some common signs and symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome?

Answer 7

Decreased glucose tolerance
Round "moon" face
Obesity (buffalo hump)
Decreased testosterone levels or menstrual periods
Muscular atrophy
Edema
Hypokalemia
Emotional changes

Question 8

Compare and contrast hypokalemia and hyperkalemia .

Answer 8

Hypokalemia: <3.5, caused by excessive loss due to diarrhea, vomiting. Observe for muscle weakness, aches, fatigue, cardiac arrhythmias; abdominal distention, and nausea and vomiting.

Hyperkalemia: Caused by inadequate secretion with acute renal failure, kidney disease, sickle cell anemia. Symptoms include muscle weakness, arrhythmias (tall T-wave) prolonged P-R Interval, and QRS duration

Question 9

Compare and contrast hyponatremia vs hypernatremia

Answer 9

Hyponatremia: Caused by water intoxication, observe for confusion; decreased mental alertness, signs of increased intracerebral pressure; poor motor coordination, sleepiness; anorexia

Hypernatremia: Caused by dehydration. Observe for circulatory congestion, pitting edema, excessive weight gain; pulmonary edema with dyspnea; hypertension, tachycardia, agitation, restlessness, convulsion