Jemma, who weighs 210 lb (95 kg) and has been diagnosed with hyperglycemia tells the nurse that her husband sleeps in another room because her snoring keeps him awake.
Which of the following would the nurse suspect as a possible cause of the client’s hyperglycemia?
- a- Acromegaly
- b- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- c- Hypothyroidism
- d- Deficient growth hormone
Answer A.
Acromegaly, which is caused by a pituitary tumor that releases excessive growth hormone, is associated with hyperglycemia, hypertension, diaphoresis, peripheral neuropathy, and joint pain.
Enlarged hands and feet are related to lateral bone growth, which is seen in adults with this disorder. The accompanying soft tissue swelling causes hoarseness and often sleep apnea.
Type 1 diabetes is usually seen in children, and newly diagnosed persons are usually very ill and thin. Hypothyroidism isn’t associated with hyperglycemia, nor is growth hormone deficiency.
The correct answer is a- Acromegaly.
Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that causes excessive growth and enlargement of the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. It is caused by an overproduction of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. GH is responsible for stimulating bone growth and cell reproduction. In acromegaly, excess GH leads to the overgrowth of bones, cartilage, and soft tissues.
The nurse's assessment of Jemma's symptoms suggests that she may have acromegaly. Her large hands and hoarse voice are both classic signs of the disorder. Additionally, her hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) is a common complication of acromegaly. This is because GH also promotes glucose production in the liver.
The other answer choices are less likely causes of Jemma's symptoms:
b- Type 1 diabetes mellitus:
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels can rise to dangerous levels. However, type 1 diabetes is not typically associated with large hands, a hoarse voice, or hyperglycemia.
c- Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone is responsible for regulating metabolism and other bodily functions. Low thyroid hormone levels can cause a number of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and hair loss. However, hypothyroidism is not typically associated with large hands, a hoarse voice, or hyperglycemia.
d- Deficient growth hormone:
Deficient growth hormone can cause short stature, delayed puberty, and other developmental problems. However, it is not typically associated with large hands, a hoarse voice, or hyperglycemia.
Therefore, acromegaly is the most likely cause of Jemma's symptoms. The nurse should recommend that she see an endocrinologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Labels
Endocrine Disorders