Tetany resulting from uncontrolled muscle spasms may indicate a malfunction of the ________.
A) pineal gland
B) thymus
C) parathyroid glands
D) adrenal cortex
E) posterior pituitary

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tetany caused by muscle spasms is a typical indication of hypocalcemia, which could result from malfunction of the parathyroid glands. These glands release parathyroid hormone, which raises calcium levels in the blood by releasing it from bones. When they malfunction, calcium levels drop, resulting in tetany as calcium is required for muscle contraction. The pineal gland secretes melatonin, the thymus secretes thymosin, the adrenal cortex secretes glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, and the posterior pituitary secretes oxytocin and vasopressin, none of which are responsible for calcium regulation or muscle function.

Tetany Resulting from Uncontrolled Muscle Spasms May Indicate a Malfunction