Question

Choose the correct answer from each of the four options given below-

Cretinism and Myxoedema are due to

• A. Hypersecretion of thyroxine
• B. Hypersecretion of growth hormone
• C. Hyposecretion of thyroxin
• D. Hyposecretion of growth hormone

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Hyposecretion of thyroxin

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Thyroxine hormone is secreted by the thyroid gland. This gland is situated in the neck above the trachea and below the larynx.
2. Hyposecretion of thyroxin causes cretinism in infants and children.
3. Poor physical and mental development, pot belly, gait incoordination, etc are a few characteristics seen in children with cretinism.
4. Hyposecretion of thyroxin causes myxoedema in adults, specifically females.
5. Puffed face, thickened nose, swelling in lips, high cholesterol, etc are a few characteristics seen in adults with myxoedema.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Hypersecretion of thyroxin causes exophthalmic goiter or Grave’s disease.
2. Swelling in the neck, increase in basal metabolic rate, irregular rapid heartbeat, eyeball protrusion, etc. are a few characteristics seen in adults with Grave's disease.

Option B:

1. Hypersecretion of growth hormone before puberty causes gigantism.
2. Long limbs, large hands, and feet are a few characteristics seen in gigantism.
3. Hypersecretion of growth hormone during middle age leads to acromegaly.
4. Acromegaly is characterized by a gorilla-like appearance. Enlargement of soft tissues leads to complications.

Option D:

1. Hyposecretion of growth hormone before puberty causes dwarfism.
2. Reduction in body growth and skeleton development is seen in dwarfism.
3. Hyposecretion of growth hormone after puberty causes acromicria causing a reduction in the size of hands, face, and feet.

Final answer:

Cretinism and Myxoedema are due to hyposecretion of thyroxine.