T1 L10: Endocrine control of Calcium homeostasis

Question 1

What is trousseau’s sign?

Answer 1

Involuntary contraction of the muscles at the hand or wrist

Question 2

What is chvostek’s sign?

Answer 2

Twitching of the facial muscles in response to tapping over the area of the facial nerve

Question 3

What are some acute consequences of hypercalaemia?

Answer 3

Thirst
Polyuria
Abdominal pain

Question 4

What are some chronic consequences of hypercalcaemia?

Answer 4

Constipation
Musculoskeletal aches/ weakness
Neurobehavioural symptoms
Renal calculi
Osteoporosis

Question 5

How does parathyroid hormone activate its receptor?

Answer 5

By changing its shape

Question 6

Where are parathyroid hormone receptors found in the body?

Answer 6

In the bones and kidneys

Question 7

How are osteoclasts activated?

Answer 7

PTH acts reacts with osteoblasts which produce rank ligand which activates rank and them osteoclasts

Question 8

What blood results confirm primary hyperparathyroidism?

Answer 8

Increased serum calcium and PTH

Reduced serum phosphate

Question 9

What are the causes of primary hypoparathyroidism?

Answer 9

• Iatrogenic due to thyroidectomy or radical neck surgery
• Autoimmune
• Hypomagnesaemia
• Genetic mutations

Question 10

What are the causes of secondary hyperparathyoidism?

Answer 10

Presents as low serum calcium and high PTH

Caused by low serum vit D or renal failure