ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceEasy
A patient is experiencing increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. Blood tests reveal elevated blood glucose levels. Which of the following hormones is most likely deficient or ineffective in this patient?
- ACortisol
- BGlucagon
- CThyroxine
- DInsulin
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Insulin
The symptoms of increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and elevated blood glucose are classic signs of diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by either insufficient insulin production or the body's inability to effectively use insulin.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can raise blood glucose, but its primary deficiency or ineffectiveness doesn't directly cause these specific symptoms.
- B. Glucagon raises blood glucose levels; a deficiency would lead to hypoglycemia, not hyperglycemia.
- C. Thyroxine regulates metabolism; imbalances affect energy levels and weight, but not directly blood glucose in this manner.
Insulin Function
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells.
- Lowers blood glucose.
- Produced by beta cells of the pancreatic islets.
- Deficiency leads to diabetes mellitus.
Memory trick: Insulin is the 'in' hormone, letting glucose 'in' to cells.