Endocrinology Flashcards

(250 cards)

1
Q

What is the definition of diabetes mellitus?

A

Disorder of carbohydrate metabolism characterised by hyperglycaemia due to relative insulin deficiency, resistance or both

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2
Q

What range should normal blood glucose be in?

A

3.5-8.0 mmol/L

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3
Q

What measurements need to be detected in bloods for a person to be diagnosed with diabetes?

A

Random plasma glucose > 11 mmol/L
Fasting plasma glucose > 7 mmol/L
HbA1c of 48 mmol/mol
2 hour postprandial > 11.1 mmol/L

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4
Q

What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

A

Type 1 is insulin deficiency, autoimmune

Type 2 is insulin resistance/relative insulin deficiency

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5
Q

What are the epidemiological differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

A

Type 1
- Often presents in childhood, peak incidence at puberty
- Increasing prevalence
- Increased prevalence of those of Northern European ancestry
Type 2
- Common in all populations with affluent lifestyle
- Increasing incidence (ageing population, increasing obesity)
- Presents in adulthood > 40
- More prevalence in South Asia, African nad Caribbean ancestry

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6
Q

Other than type 1 and type 2, name 3 other types of diabetes

A

Maturity onset diabetes of youth, pancreatic diabetes, endocrine diabetes, malnutrition related diabetes, drug induced

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7
Q

Give 5 risk factors for developing type 1 diabetes

A

Northern European ancestry (particularly Finnish), family history, having another autoimmune condition, diet, enteroviruses, vitamin D deficiency, recreational drug use, alcohol, steroids

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8
Q

Give 5 risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes

A

Genetics, male, increasing age, obesity, lack of exercise, Asian, high calorie intake

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9
Q

What is the pathophysiology of type 1 diabetes?

A
  • Autoimmune destruction of beta cells leads to insulin deficiency
  • Chronic insulitis ensues
  • Continued breakdown of liver gylcogen, unrestrained lipolysis and skeletal muscle breakdown, increased in hepatic glucose output and suppression peripheral glucose uptake
  • Increased urinary glucose losses as renal threshold exceeded
  • Perceived stress leading to increased cortisol and adrenaline
  • Catabolic state leading to increasing levels of ketones (lack of glucose and fat breakdown) and muscle loss
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10
Q

What is the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes?

A
  • Insulin resistance post-receptor and progressive failure of insulin secretion
  • Impaired insulin action leading to reduced muscle and fat uptake after eating
  • Failure to suppress lipolysis and high circulating FFAs - depositing in islets of Langherhan’s leading to further impairment of insulin secretion
  • Increased glucose levels in blood leads to damage - prevents NO release from endothelial cells so vessel lumen remains small = increased BP
  • Hyperglycaemia and lipid excess toxic to beta cells = loss of beta cells
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11
Q

What occurs during diabetic ketoacidosis?

A

State of uncontrolled catabolism

  • Rise in ketones
  • Glucose and ketones excreted in urine leads to osmotic diuresis and falling circulatory blood volume
  • Ketones acidic so lower blood pH, impairs Hb ability to bind to O2
  • Reduced glucose = increased FFA oxidation = increased acteyl-CoA production = increased ketones exceeding ability of peripheral tissues to oxidise them
  • Vicious circle of dehydration, hyperglycaemia and increasing acidosis eventually leading to circulatory collapse and death
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12
Q

What are the symptoms of ketoacidosis?

A
Polyuria and polydipsia
Nausea and vomiting
Weight loss
Weakness
Abdominal pain
Drowsiness/confusion
Hyperventilation as respiratory compensation
Fruity breath
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13
Q

What are the risk factors for developing ketoacidosis?

A
Stopping insulin
Infection
Surgery
MI
Pancreatitis
Undiagnosed diabetes
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14
Q

What occurs when someone develops hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state?

A
  • Endogenous insulin levels reduced but still sufficient to inhibit hepatic ketogenesis but insufficient to inhibit hepatic glucose production
  • Severe dehydration, decreased level of consciousness, hyperglycaemia, hyperosmolality, no ketones in blood/urine, coma, bicarbonate not lowered
  • Treat with insulin
  • Fluid replacement and restore lost electrolytes
  • Low molecular weight heparin
  • Risk of cerebral oedema
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15
Q

What are the risk factors of developing hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state?

A

Infection, consumption of glucose rich foods, concurrent medication eg thiazide diuretics or steroids

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16
Q

How might someone with type 1 diabetes present?

A
Lean, polydipsia, polyuria
Weight loss and fatigue
Ketosis
Nocturia, ketonuria, glycosuria
Dehydration
Decreased appetite 
Blurred vision
Hunger
High levels of islet autoantibodies
Short history of severe symptoms
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17
Q

How might someone with type 2 diabetes present?

A
Overweight in abdominal area
Polydipsia, polyuria
Ketosis
Older
Gradual onset
Often able to control by diet, exercise and oral medication
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18
Q

How is diabetes diagnosed?

A

Random plasma glucose/fasting plasma glucose/2 hours postprandial/HbA1c
If symptomatic require only 1 abnormal
If asymptomatic require 2 abnormal
Microalbuninuria - kidney disease?
FBC, U&Es, fasting blood for cholesterol and triglycerides
Blood pH

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19
Q

Give 3 differential diagnoses of diabetes

A

Pancreatitis, trauma/pancreatectomy, neoplasia of pancreas, acromegaly, Cushing’s, Addison’s

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20
Q

How is type 1 diabetes treated?

A
Insulin - basal/bolus
Educate to self-control doses
Phone for support
Modify diet and avoid binge drinking
Make sure to change injection sites
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21
Q

How is type 2 diabetes treated?

A
Weight loss and exercise
Statins 
BP control
1st drug - metformin
Dual therapy of metformin with DDP4 inhibitor/ploglitazone/sulphonylurea/SGLT-2i
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22
Q

Give 5 complications of diabetes

A

Hypoglycaemia
Microvascular - retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy
Macrovascular - strokes, renovascular disease, limb ischaemia, heart disease, erectile dysfunction, hypertension
Staphylococcal skin infections
DKA

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23
Q

What is impaired glucose tolerance?

A

Abnormal 2 hours post-prandial
BUT glucose level not high enough to be diabetic
Insulin resistance

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24
Q

What is impaired fasting glucose?

A

Abnormal fasting glucose
BUT glucose level not high enough to be diabetic
Insulin resistance

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25
What is diabetic nephropathy?
Glomerular damage due to diabetes Main cause of end stage renal disease Major risk factor for CVD
26
What are the risk factors for diabetic nephropathy?
Poor BP control | Poor glycaemic control
27
What occurs during diabetic nephropathy?
``` Progressive decline in renal function Prevents kidney filtration Glomerulus changes Increase of glomerular injury Filtration of proteins = proteinuria ```
28
What is the presentation of diabetic nephropathy?
Progressive decline in kidney function, proteinuria
29
How is diabetic nephropathy diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis - kidney function test, amount of albumin in urine Treatment - BP control, glycaemic control Proteinuria control and cholesterol control
30
What is diabetic neuropathy?
Irreversible nerve damage due to hyperglycaemia Occurs in 1 in 5 patients with diabetes Can lead to foot ulceration
31
What are the risk factors for diabetic neuropathy?
Poor glycaemic control, hypertension, smoking, HbA1c changes, duration of diabetes, BMI, trigylcerides, high total cholesterol
32
How does diabetic neuropathy present?
Pain - burning, pins and needles, worse at night Autonomic - diarrhoea, incontinence, constipation, erectile dysfunction Insensitivity - foot ulceration, infection, amputation, falls Glove and stocking No significant motor deficit
33
How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis - 10gm monofilament, neurotips, tuning fork, ankle reflexes Treatment - good glycaemic control, tricyclic antidepressants/SSRIs, anticonvulsants, opioids, IV lignocaine, capsaicin Transcutaneous nerve stimulation/acupuncture Psychological interventions
34
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Damage to blood vessels of light sensitive tissue in eye causing blindness
35
What are the risk factors for diabetic retinopathy?
Poor glycaemic control, long durational diabetes, hypertension, insulin treatment, pregnancy, higher HbA1c
36
What occurs in diabetic retinopathy?
- Blood vessel leakage - Occlusion - Pericyte loss and smooth muscle cell loss - Micro-aneurysms adjacent to or upstream of capillary non-perfusion - Thickened basement membrane - Loss of junctional contact between endothelial cells - Glial cells grow down capillaries - Ischaemia/occlusion
37
How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis - eye screening once per year for early detection | Treatment - laser therapy to stabilise changes (doesn't improve sight)
38
What are the risks of laser eye treatment?
``` Difficulty with night vision Loss of peripheral vision Tunnel vision Temporary drop in acuity Vitreous haemorrhage ```
39
How does metformin (biguandie) work?
- Reduces gluconeogenesis in liver | - Increases glucose uptake and ultilisation in skeletal muscle (increased insulin sensitivity)
40
What are the side effects of metformin?
``` Hypoglycaemia GI disturbances (anorexia, diarrhoea, nausea) - weight loss Lactic acidosis in renal disease, hepatic disease and HF ```
41
What is the action of sulphonyl-ureas? And give some examples
Stimulate B cells to secrete insulin Glicalazide Glipizide
42
What are contraindications of sulphonyl-ureas?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding as can cross placenta and enter breast milk causing hypoglycaemia in newborns
43
What are the side effects of sulphonyl-ureas?
``` Hypoglycaemia Weight gain (stimulate appetite) ```
44
What is the action of DPP4 inhibitors? And give an example
Inhibit DPP4, increasing effect of incretins that stimulate insulin secretion Incretins - group of hormones released after eating and augment secretion of insulin Don't cause weight gain/loss Sitagliptin
45
What is the action of gliazones? And give an example
Enhance uptake of fatty acids and glucose | Pioglitazone
46
What are the side effects of gliazones?
``` Fluid retention (increases Na+ reabsorption) - may worsen HF Weight gain (fluid retention and fat gain) ```
47
How does hypoglycaemia develop?
Too much insulin/oral hypoglycaemic agents leading to insufficient glucose to brain
48
What are the signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia?
Odd behaviour (aggression) Sweating (fight/flight) Raised pulse Seizures
49
How is hypoglycaemia diagnosed and treated?
Blood glucose level Glucose (food/IV infusion) Glucagon
50
What is the definition of Graves' disease?
Hyperthyroidism Excessive stimulation of TSH receptor which stimulates thyroid to produce more hormone and grow larger (goitre) AKA - thyrotoxicosis - excess thyroid hormones in blood
51
What are the causes of thyrotoxicosis?
Overproduction of thyroid hormone Leakage of preformed hormone from thyroid (destroyed follicular cells by infection/autoimmune) Ingestion of excess hormone
52
Epidemiology of hyperthyroidism?
2-5% of women with have at some time 20-40 mainly 2 diseases account for majority of causes 2/3 cases Graves'
53
Name 3 other conditions that can cause hyperthyroidism
Toxic multi-nodular goitre Toxic adenoma Ectopic thyroid tissue Exogenous (iodine/T4 excess)
54
Name 5 risk factors for developing Graves'
Female, family history, E coli/gram-negative bacterial infections (contain TSH binding sites), smoking, stress, high iodine levels, autoimmune disease
55
What is the pathogenesis of Graves'?
- Serum IgG antibodies called TSH receptor stimulating antibodies bind to TSH receptors in thyroid - Stimulates production of T3/4 behaving like TSH - Excess secretion of thyroid hormones and hyperplasia of thyroid follicular cells (diffuse goitre) - Similar auto-antigen can result in retro-orbital inflammation - Graves' opthalmopathy
56
Give 5 general symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism
Symptoms - palpitations, diarrhoea, weight loss, oliomenorrhea/infertility, heat intolerance, tremor, behavioural change, hyperkinesis, muscle wasting, anxiety, sweats, Signs - diffuse goitre, lid lag and stare, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, thin hair, onycholysis
57
Give 2 symptoms specific to Graves'
Graves' ophthalmopathy - eye discomfort, grittiness, increased tear production, photophobia, diplopia, protruding eye Thyroid acropachy - clubbing, finger and toe swelling
58
How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed? How is Graves' diagnosed? Give a differential diagnosis
TFTs - TSH suppressed (only in primary), T3/4 raised TPO and thyroglobulin antibodies present Ultrasound thyroid Graves' - TSH receptor stimulating antibodies Differential - mild cases of anxiety
59
How is hyperthroidism treated?
Beta-blockers Anti-thyroid drugs - propylthiouracil/oral carbimazole Radioactive iodine Surgery - thyroidectomy
60
What is hypothyroidism? | What is myxoedema?
Underactivity of thyroid gland Under production of thyroid hormone
61
What is the difference between primary and secondary hypothyroidism?
Primary - reduced T4 and T3 | Secondary - reduced TSH from anterior pituitary - hypopituitarism
62
Give some examples of causes of primary hypothyroidism
Primary atrophic hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, post-thyroidectomy/radioiodine/antithyroid drugs, lithium/amiodarone
63
Give 5 epidemiology facts about hypothyroidism
Endemic in iron deficient areas More common in women Incidence increases with age Associated with other autoimmune diseases Associated with Turner's and Down's syndrome, cystic fibrosis, primary billiary cirrhosis and ovarian hyper-stimulation
64
How does goitre form?
The pituitary gland will detect low thyroid levels so it produces more TSH which will stimulate TSH receptors on thyroid resulting in thyroid enlargement
65
What is autoimmune hypothyroidism?
Antithyroid antibodies lead to lymphoid infiltration of gland and eventually atrophy and fibrosis No goitre
66
What is Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Form of autoimmune hypothyroisism Produces atrophic changes with regeneration resulting in goitre formation due to lymphocytic and plasma cell infiltration Normally feels firm and rubbery Thyroid peroxidase present in high titres Levothyroixine - may shrink goitre
67
What is post-partum thyroiditis?
Observed after pregnancy Modifications in immune system necessary in pregnancy and histologically lymphocyte thyroiditis Can proceed to permanent hypothyrodism
68
What is iatrogenic thyroiditis?
From thyroidectomy or radioactive iodine treatment
69
What drugs may induce thyroiditis?
Carbimazole, lithium, amiodarone (can also cause hyper), interferon
70
What is iodine deficiency thyroiditis?
Lack of iodine in diet Euthyroid or hypothyroid depending on severity Borderline hypothyroidism leading to TSH stimulation and thyroid enlargement in face of continuing iodine deficiency
71
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Hoarse voice, goitre, constipation, cold intolerant, weight gain, menorrhagia, myalgia, weakness, tired, low mood, dementia, oedema
72
What are the signs of hypothyroidism?
BRADYCARDIC Bradycardia, Reflexes relax slowly, Ataxia, Dry/thin hair/skin, Yawning, Cold hands, Ascites, Round, puffy face, Defeated demeanour, Immobile, Congestive heart failure
73
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed? | What is a differential diagnosis of hypothyroidism?
TFTs - serum TSH high (increases to make thyroid work again), TSH inappropriately low for low T3/4 (secondary) Serum free T4 low Thyroid antibodies Blood tests - Anaemia - Raised serum aspartate transferase levels - Increased serum creatine kinase - Hypercholesterolaemia - Hyponatraemia due to increased ADH and impaired free water clearance Differential - ageing
74
How is hypothyroidism treated?
Hormone replacement Monitoring - Primary - dose titrated until TSH normalises - Secondary - TSH always low, T4 monitored
75
What are the complications of hypothyroidism?
Myxoedema coma Severe hypothyroidism - confusion, coma Hypothermia, cardiac failure, hypoventilation, hypoglycaemia, hyponatraemia Medical emergency - IV/oral T3 and glucose infusion, gradual rewarming
76
What is Cushing's disease?
Chronic, excessive and inappropriately elevated levels of circulating plasma cortisol resulting from inappropriate ACTH secretion from pituitary due to a tumour Most common cause oral steroids
77
What other things could cause high levels of cortisol?
Cushing's syndrome, ectopic ACTH production, ACTH treatment for asthma, adrenal adenoma
78
What is the pathophysiology of high levels of cortisol?
Excess cortisol resulting from either excess ACTH or by ingesting excess glucocorticoids or from neoplasms in adrenals that stimulate zone reticularis to release more cortisol
79
What are the symptoms of Cushing's?
CUSHING Cataracts, Ulcers, Skin (striae), HTN, hyperglycaemia, Infections increase, Necrosis, Glucosuria Aesthetic things Central obesity, plethoric complexion - ruddy, swollen, moon face, mood change - depression, lethargy, irritability, psychosis, acne, buffalo hump, hirsutism
80
How is Cushing's diagnosed?
Careful drug history Random plasma cortisol Overnight dexamethasone suppression test - should send negative feedback to pituitary and hypothalamus leading to decreased ACTH and reduced cortisol Urine free cortisol over 24 hours If no suppression - 48 hour dexamethasone suppression test CT/MRI for tumour Distinguish pituitary cause from ectopic ACTH production If cortisol responds to CRH - Cushing's
81
What is a differential diagnosis of Cushing's?
Pseudo-Cushing's syndrome - alcohol excess, resolves after 1-3 weeks of alcohol abstinence
82
What is the treatment of high cortisol?
Stop steroids Cushing's - surgical selective removal of adenoma, bilateral adrenalectomy, radiotherapy Adrenal adenoma/carcinoma - adrenalectomy Ectopic ACTH - surgery, drugs to inhibit cortisone sythesis
83
What is the difference between Cushing's syndrome and Cushing's disease?
Syndrome - excess cortisol, loss of hypothalamix pituitary axis feedback, loss of circadian rhythm Disease - all that caused by pituitary adenoma
84
What is acromegaly? | What is gigantism?
Excess GH production in adults | Excess production in children before fusion of epiphyses of long bones
85
What is the epidemiology of acromegaly?
Rare - 3 per million/year Equal prevalence between women and men Incidence highest in middle age 40+
86
What are the risk factors and causes of acromegaly?
Risk factors - MEN-1 | Aetiology - benign pituitary GH-producing adenoma, hyperplasia
87
What is the pathophysiology of acromegaly?
GH - pulsatile release Stimulated by GHRH, ghrelin Inhibited by somatostatin, high glucose Exerts effects via IGF-1 or directly on tissues to induce metabolic changes Increased secretion due to pituitary tumour or ectopic carcinoid tumour Stimulates skeletal and soft tissue growth giving rise to giant-like symptoms Local expansion of tumour can lead to compression of surrounding structures resulting in headaches and visual field loss
88
How does acromegaly present? - Symptoms
Headaches, excessive sweating, visual deterioration, snoring, wonky bite, increased weight, decreased libido, amenorrhea, arthralgia and backache, acroparaesthesia
89
How does acromegaly present? - Signs
Skin darkening, coarsening of face with wide nose, rings tight, deep voice, large tongue, increased size of hands and feet, puffy lips, eyelids and skin, obstructive sleep apnoea
90
What co-morbidites accompany acromegaly?
Impaired glucose tolerance, DM, sleep apnea, hypertension, LV hypertrophy, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, IHD, stroke, colon cancer, arthritis
91
How is acromegaly diagnosed?
High glucose, calcium and phosphate Plasma GH levels - should be undetectable (but remember pulsatile secretion) Glucose Tolerance Test - diagnostic if no suppression of glucose IGF-1 - raised and doesn't fluctuate so diagnostic Visual field exam MRI scan pituitary ECHO for cardiomyopathy Old photos - changes Serum prolactin raised
92
How is acromegaly treated?
``` Trans-sphenoidal surgery - remove tumour and correct tumour suppression Somatostatin analogues GH receptor antagonists Dopamine agonist Radiotherapy Stereotactic radiotherapy Gamma knife, LINAC or proton beam ```
93
What is Conn's syndrome?
Excess production of aldosterone independent of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system Results in increased sodium and water retention (increased BP) and decreased renin release Primary hyperaldosteronism Rare
94
What are the causes of Conn's?
Adrenal adenoma that secretes aldosterone | Hyperaldosteronism - bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasia
95
What are the risk factors of Conn's?
Hypertension - Under 35 with no FH - Malignant hypertension - Hypokalaemia before diuretic therapy - Resistant to conventional antihypertensives - Unusual symptoms
96
How does Conn's syndrome present?
Often asymptomatic Hypertension - can be associated with renal, cardiac and retinal damage if severe Hypokalaemia - weakness/cramps, paraesthesia, polyuria, polydipsia, constipation
97
How is Conn's diagnosed?
Hypokalaemic ECG - flat T waves, ST depression, long QT Serum hypokalaemia Plama aldosterone:renin ratio - raised (decreased renin) Increased plasma aldosterone levels not suppressed with 0.9% saline infusion or fludrocortisone administration CT and MRI adrenals U&E
98
What is a differential diagnosis for Conn's?
Secondary hyperaldosteronism - excess renin stimulating aldosterone release Caused by reduced renal perfusion due to - Renal artery stenosis, accelerated hypertension, diuretics, congestive heart failure, hepatic failure
99
How is Conn's treated?
Laproscopic adrenalectomy, aldosterone antagonist - oral spironolactone for 4 weeks pre-op to control BP and K+
100
What is Addison's disease?
Primary hypoaldrenalism (can also be caused by TB) Destruction of entire adrenal cortex resultin in mineralocorticoid (aldosterone), glucocorticoid (cortisol) and sex steroid deficiency Very rare 0.8 per 100,000 Can be fatal More common in women
101
What is secondary hypoadrenalism?
Issue with pituitary glands leading to lack of release of products from adrenal glands
102
What are risk factors for Addison's disease?
Autoimmune adrenalitis - destruction of adrenal cortex by adrenal autoantibodies TB, adrenal metastases, long term steroid use (prevents ACTH release via negative feedback), opportunistic infections in HIV, adrenal haemorrhage/infarction
103
What are the risk factors in secondary hypoadrenalism?
Long term steroid therapy leading to suppression of pituitary-adrenal axis Decreased ACTH production from hypothalamic-pituitary disease
104
How does Addison's disease present?
Hyperpigmentation (increased CRH and ACTH) Lethargy, depression, anorexia, weight loss, vitiligo, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, impotence/amenorrhoea, postural hypotension, lean build, dizzy, dehydration Tanned, Tired, Toned, Tearful
105
How is Addison's diagnosed?
Bloods - hyponatraemia and hyperkalaemia (aldosterone), hypoglycaemia (cortisol), hypoaldosteronism, low cortisol, uraemia, hypercalcaemia, eosinophilia (lack of anti-inflammatory effects from cortisol), anaemia Short ACTH stimulation test - cortisol will remain low 21-hydroxylase adrenal antibodies 9am ACTH levels AXR/CXR
106
How is Addison's treated?
``` IV hydrocortisone (cortisol replacement), IV 0.9% saline, glucose infusion if hypoglycaemia, replace steroids with daily 3x to mimic rhythm Fludrocortisone to replace aldosterone Adrenal crisis - IV hydrocortisone immediately and fluids ```
107
What are the symptoms of adrenal crisis?
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, confusion | Shock
108
How is secondary hypoadrenalism diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis - ACTH levels low and mineralocorticoid production intact Treatment - wean off steroids slowly and adrenals will recover Oral hydrocortisone
109
What is diabetes insipidus?
Passage of large volumes (> 3L/day) of dilute urine due to impaired water reabsorption in kidney either due to reduced ADH secretion from posterior pituitary (cranial DI) and impaired response of kidney to ADH (nephrogenic DI)
110
What is the epidemiology of DI?
2-5% women at some time | Mainly between 20-40
111
What are the differences in causes between cranial DI and nephrogenic DI?
Cranial - pituitary tumour, head trauma | Nephrogenic - drug induced
112
What is the main risk factor for developing DI?
Family history
113
Why do patients with DI become dehydrated?
Reduced ADH secretion or impaired response to ADH resulting in significant water losses resultin g in dilute urine
114
How does DI present?
Polyuria - 15L in 24 hours Polydipsia Hypernatraemia due to water loss in excess of Na loss Dehydration - impaired consciousness
115
What are the symptoms of hypernatraemia?
Lethargy, thirst, weakness, irritability, confusion, coma, fits
116
How is DI diagnosed?
Urine volume measured Blood glucose to exclude DM Water deprivation test - determine whether kidneys continue to produce dilute urine despite dehydration, measure serum and urine osmolality, urine vol and body weight hourly for 8 hours during fasting and w/o fluids Cranial DI - MRI of head and test anterior pituitary Desmopressin (ADH analogues) to differentiate
117
What differential diagnoses could be made other than DI?
DM - osmotic diuresis secondary to glycosuria Hypokalaemia Hypercalcaemia
118
How is cranial DI treated?
Treat cause - synthetic analogue of ADH - desmopressin
119
How is nephrogenic DI treated?
Treat cause - usually renal disease Thiazide diuretics (bendroflumethiazide) NSAIDs - lower urine volume and plasma Na+ giving prostaglandin synthase
120
What is SiADH?
Syndrome of inappropriate seretion of ADH Continuous secretion of ADH despite plasma being very dilute leading to retention of water and excess blood volume and thus hyponatraemia
121
What is the epidemiology of SiADH?
2-5% of women at some time | 20-40 years
122
What are the possible causes of SiADH?
``` Tumours CNS - meningitis, head trauma Pulmonary lesions Metabolic causes Drugs ```
123
What is the pathophysiology of SiADH?
Excess release of ADH results in increased insertion of aquaporin 2 channels in apical membrane of collecting duct Excess water retention which will dilute blood plasma resulting in hyponatraemia as Na+ conc will decrease
124
What are the symptoms of SiADH?
``` Same as hyponatraemia Anorexia/nausea and malaise Weakness and aches Reduction in GCS and confusion with drowsiness Fits and coma Concentrated urine ```
125
How is SiADH diagnosed?
``` Low serum Na+ Euvolaemia - normal blood volume High urine Na+ > 30 mmol/L Low plasma osmolality High urine osmolality Normal renal, adrenal and thyroid function ```
126
How is SiADH treated?
Treat underlying cause where possible Restrict fluid intake to 500-1000ml daily to increase Na conc Hypertonic saline - prevents brain swelling Oral demeclocycline daily - induces nephrogenic DI (inhibits ADH) Vasoprssin antagonist - oral tolvaptan Salt and loop diuretic - oral furosemide
127
What are the measurements that denote hyponatraemia?
Serum Na < 135 mmol/l Biochemical severe - serum Na < 125 mmol/l Normal serum Na 137-144mmol
128
What are the moderate (125-129 mmol/l) symptoms of hyponatraemia?
``` Headache Irritability Nausea/vomiting Mental slowing Unstable gait/falls Confusion.delerium Disorientation ```
129
What are the severe (<125 mmol/l) symptoms of hyponatraemia?
Stupor/coma Convulsions Respiratory arrest
130
What is the difference between acute and chronic hyponatraemia?
Acute - within 48 hours, rapid correction safer and may be necessary, may occur after subarachnoid haemorrhage Chronic - CNS adapts, correction must be slow < 8mmol/24 hours
131
How do you investigate hyponatraemia?
``` Plasma osmolality low High urine osmolality Plasma glucose Urine sodium Urine dip test for proteins TSH Cortisol Consider alcohol TFTs Assessment of underlying causes Review drugs ```
132
What is hyperkalaemia?
Serum K+ > 5.5 mmol/L | Serum K+ > 6.5 mmol/L = medical emergency
133
What causes hyperkalaemia?
Decreased excretion - AKI or oligouric renal failure (v small amount of urine produced), drugs (ACEi, potassium sparing diuretics, NSAIDs), Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency, low aldosterone) Redistribution - intracellular to extracellular - DKA, metabolic acidosis, tissue necrosis or lysis Increased load - potassium chloride, transfusion of stored blood
134
What happens during hyperkalaemia?
When K+ levels rise, reduces difference in electrical potential between cardiac myocytes and outside cells meaning threshold for action potential significanly decreased resulting in increased abnormal action potentional = abnormal heart rhythms = ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest
135
What are the symptoms of hyperkalaemia?
Asymptomatic until high enough to cause cardiac arrest Fast, irregular pulse, chest pain, weakness, light headedness Muscle weakness and fatigue (over contraction) Associated with metabolic acidosis Kussmaul's respiration
136
What is could cause a false positive in hyperkalaemia?
Haemolysis from venepuncture or K+ release from abnormal RBCs in blood disorders Contamination with K+ EDTA anticoagulant in FBC bottles Thrombocythaemia - K+ leaks out of platelets during clotting
137
How is hyperkalaemia diagnosed?
Serum K+ | Progressive ECG abnormalities - tall, tented T waves, small P waves, wide QRS complexes
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How is hyperkalaemia treated?
Non-urgent - Treat underlying cause - Review medications - Dietary K+ restriction - Polystyrene sulfonate resin binds to K+ in gut reducing absorption Urgent - Stabilise cardiac membrane - IV 10 ml 10% calcium gluconate reducing excitability of cardiomyocytes - Drive K+ into cells - insulin (glucose uptake brings K+ with it) with glucose to avoid hypoglycaemia - IV or nebulised salbutamol (increases B2 pumping of K+ into cell)
139
What is hypokalaemia?
Serum K+ < 3.5 mmol/L | Serum K+ < 2.5 mmol/L - medical emergency
140
What causes hypokalaemia?
Increased excretion - thiazide diuretics, loop diuretics, increased aldosterone secretion (Conn's), liver/heart failure Exogenous mineralocorticoids Renal disease Reduced dietary intake Redistribution to cells - beta-agonists GI losses - vomiting, severe diarrhoea, laxative abuse
141
How does hypokalaemia present?
``` Muscle weakness Cramps Hypotonia Hyporeflexia Tetany - spasms Palpitations Light headedness -arrhythmias Constipation ```
142
How is hypokalaemia diagnosed?
Serum K+ | ECG - small/inverted T waves, prominent U waves, long PR interval, depressed ST segments
143
How is hypokalaemia treated?
Treat underlying cause Acute can resolve on own - remove initiated factor Mild - K+ supplements - If on thiazide diuretics move to K+ sparing diuretics Severe - IV K+ cautiously, no more than 20mmol/h
144
What happens in hyponatraemia?
Low Na+ causes water conc gradient out of cell | Increased leakage of ICF causes hyperpolarisation of myocyte membrane decreasing myocye excitiability
145
What is the action of parathyroid hormone?
Increased bone resorption by osteoclasts Increased intestinal calcium reabsorption Activates 1,25-dihydroxyVD in kidney Increased calcium reabsorption and phosphate excretion in kidney
146
What are the causes of hyperparathyrodism?
80% solitary adenoma 20% parathyroid hyperplasia Rare - parathyroid cancer Secondary to hypocalcaemia - chronic kidney disease, VD deficiency, GI disease
147
How does hyperparathyroidism present?
Hypercalcaemia - weak, tired, depressed, thirsty, renal stones Bone resorption - pain, fractures, osteoporosis Hypertension
148
What investigations need to be done in hyperparathyroidism?
Bloods - Primary: increased PTH, increase Ca, decreased phosph - Secondary: increased PTH, decreased Ca, increased phosph - Tertiary: increased everything Increased 24 hour urinary calcium excretion DEXA bone scan - osteoporosis
149
How do you treat hyperparathyroidism?
Fluids Surgically treat underlying cause Bisphosphonates
150
What are the causes of hypoparathyroidism?
``` Autoimmune destruction of PT glands Congenital Surgical removal (secondary) Mg deficiency VD deficiency ```
151
What are the symptoms of hypoparathyroidism?
``` Same as hypocalcaemia SPASM Spasms Peripheral paraesthesia Anxious Seizures Muscle tone increases ```
152
How do you treat hypoparathyroidism?
Ca supplements Calcitriol Synthetic PTH
153
What is pseudohypoparathyroidism?
Decreased response to PTH Blood shows low Ca, high PTH Treat as normal hypoparathyroid
154
What is hypercalcaemia?
When serum calcium is above normal | 10.5-12 mg/dL
155
What can cause hypercalcaemia?
``` Occurs more in elderly women Primary hyperparathyroidism Secondary hyperparathyroidism Tertiary hyperparathyroidism Malignancies Thiazide diuretics Vitamin D analogues Lithium administration ```
156
How does primary hyperparathyroidism cause hypercalcaemia?
Excess PTH secretion and production and so hypercalcaemia
157
How does secondary hyperparathyroidism cause hypercalcaemia?
Physiological compensatory hypertrophy of all parathyroids resulting in excess PTH due to hypocalaemia that occurs in CKD and vitamin D deficiency Due to diet/GI disease
158
How does tertiary hyperparathyroidism cause hypercalcaemia?
Occurs after many years of hyperparathyroidism that occurs from CKD or vit D deficiency Causes glands to act autonomously having undergone hyperplastic or adenomatous change resulting in excess PTH secretion unlimited by feedback control Most often seen in chronic renal failure Treating disease so calcium high
159
How does malignant hpyerparathyroidism cause hypercalcaemia?
PT-related protein produced by some squamous cell lung cancer, breast and renal carcinomas (myeloma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma) - Mimic PTH resulting in hypercalcaemia - PTH low as PT-related protein not detected Bone infiltration resulting in calcium mobilisation in multiple myeloma and secondary bone metastases Production of osteoclastic factors by tumours Excessive calcium intake
160
How does hypercalcaemia present?
BONES - pain, fractures, osteopenia/osteomalacia/osteoporosis STONES - excess calcium, renal colic from renal calculi, biliary stones GROANS - abdominal pain, malaise, nausea, constipation, polydipsia, calcium deposition in renal tubules, dehydration, confusion, risk of cardiac arrest MOANS - depression, anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, insomnia, coma
161
How is primary hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?
High PTH High calcium Low phosphate
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How is secondary hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?
High PTH Low calcium High phosphate
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How is tertiary hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?
High PTH High calcium High phosphate
164
How is malignant hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?
``` Low/undetectable PTH from PT-like protein resulting in hypercalcaemia Low albumin Increased alkaline phosphatase (severe hyperparathyroidism) Protein electrophoresis for myeloma Renal function test TSH to exclude hyperthyroidism X-ray Ultrasound PT ultrasound Radioisotope scanning CT/MRI DXA bone scan ECG - tented T, short QT ```
165
How is hypercalcaemia caused by hyperparathyroidism treated?
Treat underlying cause - with surgery Acute severe hypercalcaemia medical emergency - Rehydrate with IV 0.9% saline to prevent stones - Bisphosphonates after rehydration - Serum U&Es after 48 hours - Glucocorticoid steroids Chemotherapy
166
How do you find the cause of the hypercalcaemia?
Corrected calcium levels mild increase in hyperparathyroidism and PTH high Corrected calcium levels severe increase in cancer and PTH low
167
What is hypocalcaemia?
Deficiency of serum calcium | Less than 2.1 mmol/l
168
When is hypocalcaemia seen?
Hypoparathyroidism Spans all ages Common in hospitalised patients and common on ITU wards
169
What can cause hypocalcaemia?
``` Primary hypoparathyroidism (high phosph) Secondary hypoparathyroidism Tertiary hypoparathyroidism Pseudohypoparathyroidism Pseudopseudohypoparathyroisim Secondary to increased serum phosphate levels Vitamin D deficiency (low phosph) Reduced PTH function Acute pancreatitis (low phosph) Osteomalacia (low phosph) CKD (high phosph) ```
170
How does vitamin D deficiency cause hypocalcaemia?
Results in less calcium absorption | Due to reduced UV exposure, malabsorption, anti-epileptic drugs
171
How does CKD cause hypocalcaemia?
Inadequate production of active vitamin D and renal phosphate retention Results in micro-precipitation of phosphate in tissues
172
How does reduced PTH function cause hypocalcaemia?
Low PTH due to parathyroid gland failure Primary hypoparathyroidism Calcium low and phosphate high Primary hypoparathyroidism
173
What can cause hypoparathyroidism?
After parathyroidectomy or thyroidectomy surgery Radiation Hypomagnesaemia - required for PTH secretion
174
How does pseudohypoparathyroidism cause hypocalcaemia?
Syndrome of end-organ resistance to PTH due to a mutation in Gs alpha-protein Low calcium, high PTH
175
How does hypocalcaemia present?
Parasthesia - pins and needles Muscle spasms Basal ganglia calcification Cataracts ECG abnormalities Undermineralised bone with pseudofractures Increased excitability of muscles and nerves Papilloedema SPASMODIC Spasms, Peripheral paraesthesia, Anxious, irritable, irrational, Seizures, Muscle tone increases in smooth muscles (wheeze), Orientation impaired and confusion, Dermatitis, Impetigo herpetiformis, Chvostek's sign, Cataract, Cardiomyopahty
176
What is Chvostek's sign?
Tap over facial nerve and look for spasms of facial muscles
177
What is Trousseau's sign?
Inflate BP cuff to 20mmHg above systolic for 5 mins | Hand will start to form into spasm
178
How is hypocalcaemia diagnosed?
``` Chvostek's sign Trousseau's sign Serum urine and creatinine and eGFR for renal disease PTH levels in serum PT antibodies Vitamin D Magnesium X-ray metacarpals (pseudohypoparathyroidism) ECG - long QT ```
179
What could a differential diagnosis of hypocalcaemia be?
Hypoalbuminaemia - low total serum calcium but not ionised calcium, work out corrected calcium Alkalosis Potassium and magnesium deficiency Hyperventilation
180
How do you work out corrected calcium?
Total serum calcium + 0.02 (40-serum albumin)
181
How is hypocalcaemia treated?
Calcitonin - decreases plasma calcium and phosphate Bisphosphonates - reduce osteoclast activity Acute - hospital admission, IV calcium gluconate over 30 mins with ECG Vit D deficiency - oral cholecalciferol or adcal, ineffective in hypoparathyroidism as PTH needed to convert vit D3 - 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D Hypoparathyroidism - calcium supplements, calcitriol
182
What is hyperprolactaemia?
Increased secretion of prolactin Commonest hormonal disturbance of the pituitary More common in women Presents earlier in women with menstrual disturbance and later in men with erectile dysfunction
183
Give 4 potential causes of hyperprolactaemia?
Prolactimona - tumour of pituitary resulting in excess prolactin release Pituitary stalk damage - results in less dopamine so there is no inhibition of prolactin Drugs - most common, metoclopramide or ecstasy Physiological - pregnancy, breast feeding, stress
184
What is the pathophysiology of hyperprolactaemia?
Prolactin secreted by anterior pituitary Inhibited by dopamine from the hypothalamus Raised prolactin leads to lactation and inhibition of gonadotropin releasing hormone resulting in reduced LH/FSH and thus reduced testosterone and oestrogen
185
How does hyperprolactaemia present?
Amenorrhoea/oligomenorrhoea Infertility Galatorrhoea - spontaneous flow of milk from breasts in both males and females Low libido Low testosterone in men Erectile dysfunction and reduced facial hair in men Local effect of tumour - headache, visual defects CSF leak
186
How is hyperprolactaemia diagnosed?
Measure basal prolactin level - will be very high
187
How is hyperprolactaemia treated?
Medical approaches are more efficent that surgical Dopamine agonists - massive tumour shrinkage, macroadenoma shrinkage = sight saving Microadenoma usually responds to small doses just once/twice a week
188
What is a non-functioning pituitary adenoma?
Benign growth in the pituitary gland that doesn't produce excess hormones in blood and isn't cancerous 15% of all pituitary adenomas
189
How does a non-functioning pituitary adenoma present?
``` Tumour mass effects Hormone excess Hormone deficiency Local mass effects - Visual field defects - Cranial nerve palsy and temporal lobe epilepsy - Headaches - CSF rhinorrhoea ```
190
How is a non-functioning pituitary adenoma diagnosed?
Hormonal tests - test the different axes Tumour mass effects and abnormal hormonal tests - MRI Test normal pituiart function - may have borderline deficiecny of one or all, circadian rhythms
191
How do you test the pituitary-thyroid axis?
Primary hypothyroid - raised TSH, low Ft4 Hypopituitary - low Ft4 with normal/low TSH Graves disease (toxic) - suppresses TSH, high Ft4 TSHoma (rare) - High Ft4, normal/high TSH Hormone resistance - high Ft4 with normal/high TSH
192
How do you test the gonadal axis in men?
Primary hypogonadism - low T, raised LH/FSH Hypopituitary - low T, normal/low LH/FSH Anabolic use - low T and suppressed LH Measure 0900 fasted T and LH/FSH in pituitary disease
193
How do you test the gonadal axis in women?
Before puberty - oestradiol low/undetectable, low LH and FSH (FSH slightly higher then LH) Puberty - pulsatile LH increases and oestradiol increases Post-menarche - monthly menstrual cycle with LH/FSH, mid-cycle surge LH/FSH and levels oestradiol increase throughout cycle Primary ovarian failure (menopause) - high LH/FSH (FSH > LH), low oestradiol Hypopituitary - olio or amenorrhoea with low oestradiol and normal/low FSH/LH
194
How do you test the HPA axis?
Circadian rhythm Measure 0900h cortisol and synacthen Primary AI - low cortisol, high ACTH, poor response to synacthen Hypopituitarism - low cortisol, low/normal ACTH, poor response to synacthen
195
How do you test the GH/IGF1 axis?
``` GH secreted in pulses with greatest pulses at night and low/undetectable levels between pulses GH levels fall with age, low in obesity Measure IGF-1 and GH stimulation test - Insulin stress test - Glucagon test ```
196
How do you measure prolactin levels?
``` Under negative control of dopamine Stress hormone Measure prolactin or cannulated prolactin (3 samples over an hour to exclude stress of venepuncture) May be raised due to - Stress - Drugs - antipsychotics - Stalk pressure - Prolactinoma ```
197
How do you test hormonal axis using dynamic testing?
Dexamethasone suppression test - Cushing's Oral glucose GH suppression test - Acromegaly CRH stimulation - Cushing's TRH stimulation - TSHoma GnRH stimulation - gonadotrophin deficiency Insulin-induced hypoglycaemia - GH/ACTH deficiency Glucagon test - GH deficiency Useful for further evaluation to test pituitary reserve/pituitary hyperfunction
198
How is non-functioning pituitary adenoma treated?
Hormone replacement therapies Surgery - if sight threatening Radiotherapy Medications
199
What is precocious puberty?
Early puberty | Considered early puberty at ages 8 in girls and 9 in boys
200
What is the epidemiology of precocious puberty?
Incidence of 1 in 5,000 to 10,000 90% patients female Females tend to be idiopathic and otherwise healthy Males - high chance it's a brain tumour
201
How is precocious puberty classified?
True precocious puberty - starts at pituitary, activation of hypothalamus activating GnRH system begins puberty, activation of HPG axis - Stimulated LH:FSH ratio > 1 Precocious puberty - secreting tumours in gonads, brain, liver, retroperitoneum, mediastinum - Stimulated LH:FSH ration < 1 - Not activation of HPG axis - could even be suppressed as hormones being produced by gonads will shut doesn HPG axis
202
What are the causes of true precocious puberty?
``` GnRH dependent Idiopathic in girls Boys - consider brain tumour CNS tumours CNS disorders - developmental abnormalities, encephalitis, brain abcess, hydrocephalus Secondary central precocious puberty Psychosocial ```
203
What are the causes of precocious pseudo-puberty?
Increased androgen secretion - congenital adrenal hyperplasia, virilising neoplasm, Leydig cell adenoma Gonadotrophin secreting tumours - chorioepitheliomas, germinoma, hepatoma Ovarian cyst Oestrogen secreting neoplasm Hypothyroidism Iatrogenic or exogenous sex hormones
204
How is precocious pseudo-puberty diagnosed?
``` Differential diagnosis True - Stimulation pubertal range - Stimulated LH:FSH ratio > 1 Precocious - Stimulated pre-pubertal range or suppression - Stimulated LH:FSH ratio < 1 ```
205
How is precocious puberty treated?
GnRH super-agonist the suppress pulsatility of GnRH secretion Improves final height Lowers risk of sexual abuse in children
206
Name an example of a biguanide
Metformin
207
What are biguanides used for?
To treat DMT2 as first choice medication for control of blood glucose, alone or in combination with other hypoglycaemics such as sulphonyl ureas or insulin
208
How do biguanides work?
Lower blood glucose by increasing response to insulin Suppresses hepatic glucose production (glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis), increases glucose uptake and utilisation by skeletal muscle and suppresses intestinal glucose absorption DOESN'T cause hypoglycaemia as does not stimulate pancreas Reduces weight gain and can induce weight loss, which can prevent worsening of insulin resistance
209
What are the main adverse effects of biguanides?
GI disturbance - may contribute to weight loss Lactic acidosis can occur in intercurrent lines such as renal or hepatic impairment or cardiac failure Contraindicated in severe renal impairment and should be withheld in AKI and severe tissue hypoxia, used with care in hepatic impairment and alcohol intoxication Can interact with IV contrast media so withheld before these investigations Use with caution with other drugs that may impact renal function eg ACEI diuretics or NSAIDs Prednisolone, thiazide and loop diuretics elevate blood glucose and may reduce efficacy of metformin
210
Name an example of a sulphonylurea
Gliclazide
211
What are sulphonylureas used for?
DMT2 as single agent to control blood glucose and reduce complications where metformin contraindicated/not tolerated Can be used in combination with metformin and other hypoglycaemics in uncontrolled glucose levels
212
How do sulphonylureas work?
Lower blood glucose by stimulating pancreatic insulin secretion Block ATP dependent K+ channels in pancreatic beta cell membranes, causing depolarisation of cell membrane and opening of voltage gates Ca2+ channels, stimulating insulin secretion Only effective in patients with residual pancreatic function
213
What are the main adverse effects of sulphonylureas?
GI disturbance occurs infrequently, more serious hypoglycaemia especially when used with other hypoglycaemic medication Rare hypersensitivity reactions and cause hepatic toxicity, rash and fever and haematological abnormalities Use with care in hepatic and renal impairment and in people at increased risk of hypoglycaemia Efficacy reduced by prednisolone, thiazide and loop diuretics which increase glucose
214
Name an example of a glitazone
Pioglitazone
215
What are glitazones used for?
DMT2, alone if metformin contraindicated or in combination with metformin/sulphonylurea when glucose levels uncontrolled
216
How do glitazones work?
Activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors which bind FFAs and induce genes that enhance insulin action in skeletal muscle, adipose tissue and liver Increases peripheral glucose uptake and utilisation and reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis Increases storage of fatty acids in adipocytes, decreasing amount present in circulation Less risk of hypoglycaemia as does not stimulate pancreas
217
What are the main adverse effects of glitazones?
Increased fracture risk, peripheral oedema, anaemia and mild weight gain Increased risk of bladder cancer Lower risk of hypoglycaemia than other agents but risk increased in combination Contraindicated in HF, DMT1 and diabetic ketoacidosis Used with care in hepatic impairment
218
What are the different types of insulin?
``` Insulin aspart Insulin glargine Biphasic insulin Soluble insulin Isophane insulin ```
219
What is insulin used for?
Insulin replacement in people with DMT1 and control of blood glucose in those with DMT2 where oral hypoglycaemic treatment inadequate or poorly tolerated IV in diabetic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state
220
How does insulin work?
``` Stimulates glucose uptake from circulation into tissue and increases use of glucose as energy source Stimulates glycogen, lipid and protein synthesis and inhibits gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis Rapid acting (insulin aspart), short acting (soluble insulin), intermediate acting (isophane insulin) and long acting (insulin glargine) Biphasic insulin contains mixture of rapid and intermediate acting ```
221
What are the main adverse effects of insulin treatment
Hypoglycaemia which can cause lipohypertrophy if administed by injection in same site Care in renal impairment as increased risk of hypoglycaemia Combinations with other hypoglycaemic agents increases risk of hypoglycaemia and use with corticosteroids increases the dose required to have to same effects
222
Name an example of a thyroid replacement hormone
Levothyroxine
223
What are thyroid replacement hormones used in?
Primary hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism secondary to hypopituitarism
224
How do thyroid replacement hormones work?
Regulate metabolism and growth preventing effects of hypothyroidism Thyroixine (T4) converted to active triiodothyronine T3 in target tissues Levothyroxine synthetic T4
225
What are the main adverse effects of thyroid replacement hormones?
Hyperthyroidism symptoms - GI disturbance, cardiac arrhythmias, neurological tremors Increased HR and metabolism and precipitate cardiac ischaemia so used with care in CAD Corticosteroid therapy must be initiated alongside levothyroixineif patient has hypopituitarism to avoid Addisonian crisis GI absorption reduced by antacid, Ca2+ and iron Increased dose required with cytochrome 450 inducers such as carbamazepine Increase insulin or other hypoglycaemic requirements in diabetes and enhance effects of warfarin
226
Name an example of an antithyroid drug
Carbimazole
227
What are antithyroid drugs used in?
Graves' disease as long term treatment | Taken before thyroid surgery to lower hormone levels
228
How do anti-thyroid drugs work?
Prevents thyroid peroxidase enzyme from coupling and iodinating the tyrosine residues on thyroglobulin, reduces production of thyroid hormones T3 and 4 Relief of clinical symptoms slow as large store of preformed T3 and 4 must be depleted before and effect seen - can be months
229
What are the main adverse effects of anti-thyroid drugs?
Rashes and pruritus common, treated with anti-histamines, more rarely and severely can be bone marrow suppression and resultig neutropenia and agranulocytosis Care in patients with past or current blood disease or liver impairment CYP450 enzyme inhibitor so drugs metabolism by this eg warfarin may become toxic if does not lowered
230
Name an example of a growth hormone receptor antagonist
Pegvisomant
231
What are growth hormone receptor antagonists used for?
Treatment of acromegaly if pituitary tumour cannot be controlled with surgery or irradiation Administered as a powder solution injection
232
How do growth hormone receptor antagonists work?
Block action of growth hormone at the growth hormone receptor to reduce the production of IGF-1
233
What are the main adverse effects of growth hormone receptor antagonists?
``` Reactions at injection site GI disturbance Hypoglycaemia, chest pain, hepatitis Increased GH levels - reduces feedback Use with care in diabetics and patient with malignant tumours or liver impairment ```
234
Name an example of a vasopressin antagonist
Tolvaptan
235
What are vasopressin antagonists used for?
Treatment of euvolaemic (SIADH) and hypervolaemic hyponatraemia
236
How does vasopressin antagonists work?
``` Inhibit vasopressin-2 receptor so increases fluid excretion Causes aquaresis (exretion of H2O with NO electrolyte loss) leading to increases Na+ in hyponatraemia ```
237
What are the main adverse effects of vasopressin antagonists?
GI disturbance, headache, increased thirst, insomina Hypersensitivity reactions Contraindicated in hypovolaemic hyponatraemia and severe renal impairment Can interact with statins and cause serious muscle problems Side effects increased with macrolides Can cause enhanced effects of benzodiazepines and digoxin when used together
238
What do statins do?
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors | Enzyme responsible for cholesterol biosynthesis
239
Name 3 examples of statins
Atorvastatin Lovastatin Simvastatin Fluvastatin
240
Name an example of a vasopressin analogue
Desmopressin
241
What are vasopressin analogues used for?
Treatment of cranial diabetes insipidus | Also used to distinguish cranial and nephrohenic diabetes insipidus
242
How do vasopressin analogues work?
Replace endogenous vasopressin that is missing in cranial diabetes insipidus Works on renal collecting duct by binding to V2 receptors, which signal aquaporin 2 to be inserted into the collecting duct apical membrane and thus increase water reabsorption from the usrine
243
What are the main adverse effects of vasopressin analogues?
Headaches, facial flushing, nausea, seizures Hyponatraemia Contraindicated in moderate to severe renal impairment and patients with hyponatraemia Use with tricyclic antidepressants, SSRIs, NSAIDs, opioid analgesics should be monitored carefully as may increase risk of water intoxication with hyponatraemia
244
Name an examples of an adrenal corticosteroid inhibitor
Metyrapone
245
What are adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors used for?
Diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency | Control cortisol hypersecretion in Cushing's
246
How to adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors work?
Metyrapone blocks cortisol synthesis by reversibly inhibiting steroid 11 beta-hydroxide enzymes Enzyme normally stimulates adrenocorticotrophic hormone secretion and increases plasma 1--deoxycortisol level that is metabolised to cortisol - inhibiting enzyme leads to a reduction in cortisol
247
What are the main adverse effects of adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors?
GI disturbance, headache, dizziness and drowsiness Hirsutism can occur because of excess androgen precursors created Contraindicated in adrenal cortical insufficiency and patients taking corticosteroids Use in care in patients on paracetamol as liver damage can be increased, and insulin or other hypoglycaemics as side effects may be increased Corticosteroid, oestrogen and phenytoin can reduced effectiveness
248
Name 3 examples of synthetic corticosteroids
Bethamethasone Prednisone Prednisolone Methyprednisolone
249
What are steroids used for?
Decreasing inflammation and reducing activity of immune system Treat a variety of inflammatory diseases
250
What are the main adverse effects of steroids?
``` Acne Easy bruising High BP Increased appetite, weight gain Hirsutism Insomnia Osteoporosis Stomach irritation/bleeding Restlessness Lower resistance to infection Swollen, puffy face Water retention Worsening of diabetes ```