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Multiple Choice
Which of the following glands is malfunctioning in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus?
A
Thyroid gland
B
Pancreas
C
Adrenal gland
D
Pituitary gland
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of type 1 diabetes mellitus: It is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to insufficient insulin production.
Review the function of the pancreas: The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. Without sufficient insulin, glucose cannot enter cells effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Compare the roles of the other glands listed: The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland produces stress-related hormones like cortisol, and the pituitary gland controls various hormonal functions but does not directly produce insulin.
Identify the malfunctioning gland: Since type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing cells, the pancreas is the gland that is malfunctioning in this condition.
Conclude that the pancreas is the correct answer based on its role in insulin production and its direct involvement in type 1 diabetes mellitus.