Physiological Adaptation Q 179

---

A 24-year-old female is admitted to the ER due to confusion. This patient has a history of a myeloma diagnosis, constipation, intense abdominal pain, and polyuria. Based on the presenting signs and symptoms, which of the following would you most likely suspect?

  

     A. Diverticulosis

     B. Hypercalcemia

     C. Hypocalcemia

     D. Irritable bowel syndrome

    

    

Correct Answer: B. Hypercalcemia

---

Hypercalcemia can cause polyuria, severe abdominal pain, and confusion.

---

Option A: Diverticulosis is a condition that develops when pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the large intestine; most people don’t have symptoms.

Option C: Hypocalcemia is low calcium levels in the blood; it is asymptomatic in mild forms but can cause paresthesia, tetany, muscle cramps, and carpopedal spasms in severe hypocalcemia.

Option D: Irritable bowel syndrome is a widespread condition involving recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea or constipation, often associated with stress, depression, anxiety, or previous intestinal infection.

---