Questions: Janelle, a 30-year-old woman, presents at her primary care office complaining of feeling nervous and anxious. She states that she even feels as if her heart is racing because she is "so stressed out." Janelle would like to be prescribed antianxiety medication. Janelle's height and weight measurements reveal she has lost 15 pounds in the last 6 months. She attributes her weight loss to stress. What hormone disorder may lead to weight loss? Thyroid hyperfunction Thyroid hypofunction Central diabetes insipidus Posterior pituitary hyperfunction

The answer is the first one: Thyroid hyperfunction.

Explanation for each option:

1. Thyroid hyperfunction: This condition, also known as hyperthyroidism, involves the overproduction of thyroid hormones. It can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, anxiety, and nervousness, which align with Janelle's symptoms. Therefore, thyroid hyperfunction is a likely cause of her weight loss and other symptoms.

2. Thyroid hypofunction: This condition, also known as hypothyroidism, involves the underproduction of thyroid hormones. It typically leads to weight gain, fatigue, and depression, which do not match Janelle's symptoms of weight loss and anxiety.

3. Central diabetes insipidus: This condition is characterized by excessive thirst and urination due to a deficiency of the hormone vasopressin. It does not typically cause weight loss or anxiety, making it an unlikely cause of Janelle's symptoms.

4. Posterior pituitary hyperfunction: This condition involves the overproduction of hormones from the posterior pituitary gland, such as vasopressin. It is not commonly associated with weight loss or anxiety, so it is not a likely cause of Janelle's symptoms.

In summary, Janelle's symptoms of weight loss, anxiety, and a racing heart are most consistent with thyroid hyperfunction (hyperthyroidism).