Endocrine Basics
Q: What does the endocrine system regulate?
A: Hormones and metabolism.
Q: What is basal insulin?
A: Long‑acting background insulin.
Q: What are the three hallmark features of DKA?
A: Hyperglycemia, ketones, acidosis.
Q: What is the typical glucose level in HHS?
A: >600 mg/dL.
Q: What does ADH regulate?
A: Water balance.
Q: Name one kidney function.
A: Acid–base balance, water balance, electrolytes, toxin removal, BP regulation, EPO, vitamin D activation.
Q: Which hormone lowers blood glucose?
A: Insulin.
Q: What is Type I diabetes?
A: Autoimmune destruction of beta cells → no insulin.
Q: What causes fruity breath?
A: Acetone (a ketone).
Q: Why are ketones minimal in HHS?
A: Enough insulin is present to prevent ketogenesis.
Q: What is the hallmark of DI?
A: Dilute urine + high sodium.
Q: What is prerenal AKI?
A: Perfusion problem.
Q: Which two organs do NOT require insulin for glucose uptake?
A: Brain and liver.
Q: What is insulin resistance?
A: Cells do not respond well to insulin.
Q: What is the primary ketone body measured?
A: Beta‑hydroxybutyrate (BHOB).
Q: What is the serum osmolality threshold for HHS?
A: >320 mOsm/kg.
Q: What is the hallmark of SIADH?
A: Concentrated urine + low sodium.
Q: What ECG change appears in hyperkalemia?
A: Peaked T waves.
Q: What happens when insulin is absent?
A: Hyperglycemia, fat breakdown, ketones, acidosis.
Q: Which type is more likely to develop DKA?
A: Type I.
Q: What is the typical pH in DKA?
A: <7.3.
Q: What symptom is more common in HHS than DKA?
A: Severe neurologic changes.
Q: Which disorder causes large urine volumes?
A: DI.
Q: What symptom appears in hypocalcemia?
A: Tetany or Chvostek/Trousseau signs.
Q: Name two factors in healthcare settings that raise glucose.
A: Stress, infection, steroids, inactivity, nutrition changes.
Q: Which type is more likely to develop HHS?
A: Type II.
Q: Why must potassium be monitored closely in DKA?
A: Insulin shifts potassium into cells → risk of hypokalemia.
Q: Why does HHS develop slowly?
A: Gradual dehydration and insulin resistance over days–week
Q: Which disorder causes water retention?
A: SIADH.
Q: What electrolyte must be corrected to fix hypokalemia?
A: Magnesium.