MCAT Biology Question 165: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 165
15. A young woman presents to the emergency room with a broken hip. She denies any recent history of trauma to the joint. Blood tests reveal a calcium concentration of 
(normal: 8.4–10.2). Which tissue is likely responsible for these findings?
- A. Thyroid
- B. Cartilage
- C. Parathyroid
- D. Smooth muscle
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
An unprovoked fracture of the hip is not a normal finding in a young woman. Given that she has a high calcium level, it is likely that she has an increased level of bone resorption that is causing her bones to be more fragile. Parathyroid hormone causes calcium release from bones. If this woman had an overactive parathyroid gland—or even cancer in this gland—then it is likely that calcium could still be resorbed from her bones even though her blood calcium levels are already high.