A patient complains of constantly desiring food and water, then having to urinate
frequently. Tests show normal ADH levels. These symptoms suggest
A. diabetes insipidus. C. diabetes mellitus.
B. Cushing’s syndrome. D. panhypopituitarism.
C
The correct answer is C. diabetes mellitus.
To arrive at this answer, we need to analyze the symptoms described by the patient and eliminate the other options.
The patient complains of constantly desiring food and water, as well as frequent urination. These symptoms are indicative of increased thirst and urination, which are characteristic of diabetes.
Now, let's go through the other options and explain why they are not correct:
A. Diabetes insipidus: This condition is characterized by excessive thirst and urination, similar to diabetes mellitus. However, in diabetes insipidus, the cause lies in the inability of the kidneys to properly concentrate urine due to a lack of or reduced response to antidiuretic hormone (ADH). The tests, however, have shown normal ADH levels, making diabetes insipidus less likely.
B. Cushing's syndrome: While Cushing's syndrome can cause a variety of symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, excessive thirst and urination are not typically associated with this condition.
D. Panhypopituitarism: This condition occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough of all its hormones. While it can cause a range of symptoms, including hormonal imbalances, excessive thirst and urination are not specifically associated with panhypopituitarism.
Therefore, based on the symptoms described and the information given, the most likely diagnosis would be C. diabetes mellitus.