Problem 1: For each hormone pair below, explain how the two hormones are related. If they are antagonistic, explain the specific opposing functions.
A) Calcitonin and Parathyroid hormone
B) Antidiuretic hormone and Aldosterone
Problem 2: Mrs. Williams came into your clinic complaining of fatigue, feeling cold all the time, and unexplained weight gain. A blood test gives the following results (normal ranges given for comparison):
T3: 0.03ng/dl (normal: 0.2-0.5 ng/dl)
T4: 1.1 ug/dl (normal: 4-7 ug/dl)
TSH: 86 mU/l (normal: 0.3-4.0 mU/l)
Is Mrs. Williams suffering from primary or secondary hypothyroidism? Explain your answer. Explain the distinction between primary and secondary endocrine disorders and explain how the patient's test results help you distinguish between the two.
Problem 3: Blood clotting is an incredibly important process. But, like so many things in the body, you must have enough blood clotting, but not too much. Identify a disease or disorder associated with excessive or inappropriate blood clotting (too much, or unnecessary clotting). Explain exactly what causes the disorder, what the effects/symptoms of the disorder are, and how it can be treated.
Problem 4: Perry moved from sea level Olympia to Flagstaff, Arizona (elevation: 7000 feet). While still in Olympia, he had a blood test that determined his hematocrit to be 43. Approximately a month after moving to Flagstaff, he was tested again and his hematocrit this time was 55.
A) Explain exactly what a hematocrit measures.
B) Explain why Jackson's hematocrit increased after moving to Flagstaff. Explain what regulatory mechanisms caused the change.
Problem 5: Explain why some pregnant mothers are given a dose of Rhogam just before or just after delivery. Your answer must include what Rhogam is, what it is used for, and how it works.