Endocrine regulation · USMLE Step 1

During a prolonged period of high stress, which endocrine axis is most directly responsible for maintaining elevated glucocorticoid levels?

  1. HPG axis
  2. Thyroid axis
  3. HPA axis
  4. Somatotropic axis
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Correct answer: HPA axis

The HPA axis governs the stress response by increasing CRH, ACTH, and ultimately cortisol (a glucocorticoid), thus sustaining elevated levels during prolonged stress.

Difficulty: Medium Question 12 of 23

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