Download It`s Just Stress, Right? Case Study

Endocrinologist ___________________________
Date ______________
It’s Just Stress, Right? Case Study
Directions: Read each part, and then answer the following questions.
Part I
1. What was unusual about Ellie’s behavior or appearance?
2. Do you think stress could be causing her difficulties? Do you know of anything else
besides stress that might be causing these difficulties?
Part II (Use page 979 in your text for help)
3. Where is the thyroid gland located?
4. What hormones are made and released from the thyroid?
5. Describe the function of these thyroid hormones.
6. Protrusion of the eyes is called exophthalmos. Exophthalmos is not a condition, but
rather a sign of a condition, usually caused by something wrong with the thyroid
gland. Is homeostasis being maintained by her endocrine system?
7. What hormones are responsible for maintaining water balance that is secreted by the
hypothalamus? (Hint: look on page 986-987)
8. What is the significance of the slight swelling in Ellie’s neck? (hint: where is the
thyroid located)
9. Based on the information you have at this point, do you think Ellie’s thyroid gland is
hyperactive or hypoactive? Explain your answer. (Hint: use page 985 for help)
10. Dr. Simmons ordered blood tests to measure Ellie’s levels of thyroxine and thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH or thyrotropin). If Ellie has a hyperactive thyroid, what are
the expected results? What are the anticipated results if she has a hypoactive
thyroid? (Hint: which hormones would have high levels and which hormones would
have low levels?)
Part III
11. Why are her TSH levels low instead of high if her thyroid is releasing too much
hormone? (Hint: use page 987 for help)
Part IV
12. What are some of the treatments Ellie’s doctors suggested?
13. Have her symptoms improved since treatment?
14. Is she cured? Explain your answer.