Which among the following disorders is caused by lack of insulin?

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur lecturer 2021

Explanation

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease defined by hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
This condition results from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.
Insulin is a hormone essential for glucose to move from the bloodstream into cells for energy.
A lack of insulin (absolute or relative) causes glucose to accumulate in the blood, which is the hallmark of diabetes mellitus.

Option A: Anemia is a hematological disorder characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, not a metabolic disorder caused by insulin deficiency.
Option C: Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, typically related to iodine deficiency or thyroid hormone imbalances, not insulin.
Option D: Hydrocele is a structural condition involving fluid accumulation in the scrotum. It is unrelated to the endocrine system or insulin.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pathophysiology of Endocrine Disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a critical role in managing diabetes by monitoring blood glucose levels, administering insulin, educating patients on diet and exercise, and recognizing signs of complications like hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Patient education is a cornerstone of diabetes care. Nurses teach patients how to self-administer insulin, check their blood sugar, and understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle to prevent long-term complications.
What if? If a patient with known diabetes presents with confusion, fruity-smelling breath, and Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing), the nurse must immediately suspect Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening emergency, and initiate emergency protocols.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'caused by lack of insulin'.
This directs you to recall the primary function of the hormone insulin.
Recall that insulin is produced by the pancreas and is crucial for regulating blood glucose (sugar) levels.
Evaluate each option based on this knowledge.
Anemia (blood disorder), Goiter (thyroid disorder), and Hydrocele (scrotal fluid) are unrelated to insulin.
Diabetes mellitus is the classic disease defined by insulin deficiency or ineffectiveness, making it the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Biochemistry for medical StudentsDM Vasudevan Part 1 (pp 26-370 of 370) p. 195-197

E6 Text Book Of Pediatric Nursing 3rd Panchali Pal — Part 2 (pp 239-476 of 713) p. 63-65

E6 Nutrition Kumud Khanna 2e p. 323-325

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