ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Exam Success!

An imbalance in thyroid hormone production and uptake primarily leads to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, as these are conditions directly associated with the excess or deficiency of thyroid hormones, respectively.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when there is an overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to an accelerated metabolism, increased heart rate, weight loss, and other metabolic symptoms. This can result from conditions such as Graves' disease or toxic nodular goiter.

Conversely, hypothyroidism arises when there is inadequate production of thyroid hormones, causing a slowed metabolism, weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and other symptoms. This can be due to autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or other factors affecting thyroid function.

Both conditions stem from an imbalance in the synthesis, release, or uptake of thyroid hormones, directly tying them to the thyroid gland's activity. The other options listed do not relate to thyroid hormone dysregulation but rather to different physiological processes or systems.