Which of the following is most likely to cause an endocrine disorder?

• A. A deficiency in dietary fiber
• B. A tumor in a hormone-secreting gland
• C. A bacterial infection of the lungs
• D. A minor skin abrasion

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for producing and regulating hormones, which are chemical messengers that control various physiological processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided. Consider how each option might impact the endocrine system. For example, dietary fiber primarily affects digestion, bacterial infections of the lungs affect respiratory health, and minor skin abrasions are localized injuries that do not directly impact hormone production.
3. Step 3: Focus on the option involving a tumor in a hormone-secreting gland. Tumors in endocrine glands can disrupt normal hormone production by either increasing or decreasing secretion, leading to endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism or Cushing's syndrome.
4. Step 4: Relate the concept of endocrine disorders to hormone imbalance. Endocrine disorders are typically caused by issues that directly affect hormone production or regulation, such as gland dysfunction, tumors, or autoimmune diseases.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most likely cause of an endocrine disorder among the options is a tumor in a hormone-secreting gland, as it directly impacts the endocrine system's ability to regulate hormones.