The endocrine system appears to play a role in which types of disorders?

• A. Bacterial infections such as tuberculosis
• B. Physical injuries such as bone fractures
• C. Genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis
• D. Hormonal imbalances such as diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for producing and regulating hormones that control various physiological processes, such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress responses.
2. Step 2: Recognize that disorders related to the endocrine system are typically caused by hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can result from overproduction or underproduction of hormones, or issues with hormone receptors.
3. Step 3: Differentiate endocrine-related disorders from other types of disorders. For example, bacterial infections (e.g., tuberculosis) are caused by pathogens, physical injuries (e.g., bone fractures) are mechanical damage, and genetic disorders (e.g., cystic fibrosis) are inherited mutations. These are not directly related to the endocrine system.
4. Step 4: Identify examples of endocrine disorders. Common examples include diabetes mellitus, which involves issues with insulin production or response, and hyperthyroidism, which is caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the endocrine system plays a role specifically in disorders caused by hormonal imbalances, distinguishing them from other types of disorders such as infections, injuries, or genetic conditions.