Thyroid Disorders: Key Concepts

What is the primary cause of hypothyroidism?

• Graves' disease

• Iodine deficiency

• Thyroid cancer

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis

Answer explanation

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, as it is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the thyroid gland, leading to decreased hormone production. Other options are less common causes.

Which hormone is typically elevated in hyperthyroidism?

• Adrenaline

• Insulin

• Cortisol

• Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3)

Answer explanation

In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces excess hormones, primarily Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), leading to elevated levels in the bloodstream. This is why the correct answer is T4 and T3.

What is the first-line management for benign thyroid nodules?

• Radioactive iodine therapy

• Surgery to remove the nodule

• Observation and monitoring

• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy

Answer explanation

The first-line management for benign thyroid nodules is observation and monitoring, as most nodules are asymptomatic and do not require immediate intervention unless they show signs of growth or malignancy.

What does TSH stand for in thyroid function tests?

• Thyroid Synthesis Hormone

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone

• Thyroid Suppressing Hormone

• Thyroid Secretion Hormone

Answer explanation

TSH stands for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, which is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. This is crucial for regulating metabolism and overall thyroid function.

Which autoimmune condition is commonly associated with hypothyroidism?

• Graves' disease

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis

• Celiac disease

Answer explanation

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to decreased hormone production.

What is the most common type of thyroid cancer?

• Follicular thyroid carcinoma

• Medullary thyroid carcinoma

• Papillary thyroid carcinoma

• Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma

Answer explanation

Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically has a good prognosis and is more prevalent in younger women.

How is primary hypothyroidism diagnosed?

• Elevated TSH and low free T4 levels in blood tests.

• Normal TSH and normal free T4 levels in blood tests.

• Elevated TSH and normal free T4 levels in blood tests.

• Low TSH and high free T4 levels in blood tests.

Answer explanation

Primary hypothyroidism is diagnosed by elevated TSH levels due to the pituitary gland's response to low free T4 levels, indicating insufficient thyroid hormone production.

What imaging technique is often used to evaluate thyroid nodules?

• CT scan

• Ultrasound

• MRI

• X-ray

Answer explanation

Ultrasound is the preferred imaging technique for evaluating thyroid nodules due to its ability to provide detailed images of soft tissues, helping to assess the characteristics of the nodules effectively.

What is the role of radioactive iodine in hyperthyroidism treatment?

• Radioactive iodine is used to enhance thyroid hormone production.

• Radioactive iodine is a dietary supplement for thyroid health.

• Radioactive iodine is used to treat diabetes-related thyroid issues.

• Radioactive iodine is used to destroy overactive thyroid cells in hyperthyroidism treatment.

Answer explanation

Radioactive iodine is specifically used in hyperthyroidism treatment to destroy overactive thyroid cells, reducing hormone production and alleviating symptoms, making it the correct choice.

What are the typical symptoms of Graves' disease?

• Joint pain and swelling

• Fatigue and drowsiness

• Increased heart rate, weight loss, anxiety, tremors, heat intolerance, bulging eyes.

• Cold intolerance and weight gain

Answer explanation

Graves' disease typically presents with symptoms like increased heart rate, weight loss, anxiety, tremors, heat intolerance, and bulging eyes, distinguishing it from other conditions.