Chapter 5: Physiology & Pathophysiology

Question 1

What is physiology?

Answer 1

The study of how the body and its systems function under normal conditions.

Question 2

What is pathophysiology?

Answer 2

The study of how physiological processes are altered by disease or injury.

Question 3

What is the role of the cell membrane in physiology?

Answer 3

It regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis.

Question 4

How does the phospholipid bilayer structure affect cell function?

Answer 4

It provides a semi-permeable barrier, allowing selective exchange of nutrients and waste.

Question 5

What is the function of mitochondria?

Answer 5

They generate energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration.

Question 6

What is the importance of the nephron in kidney physiology?

Answer 6

It filters blood to form urine, regulating water and electrolyte balance.

Question 7

How does the heart maintain circulation?

Answer 7

Through coordinated contractions of the atria and ventricles to pump blood throughout the body.

Question 8

What is the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

Answer 8

It represents the time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization; its prolongation can indicate cardiac risk.

Question 9

What is the function of the glomerular filter in the kidneys?

Answer 9

It allows the passage of small molecules while retaining larger molecules like proteins.

Question 10

How does the liver contribute to drug metabolism?

Answer 10

It uses enzymes like cytochrome P450 to metabolize drugs into active or inactive forms.

Question 11

What is first-pass metabolism?

Answer 11

The process by which the liver metabolizes a drug before it reaches systemic circulation, affecting bioavailability.

Question 12

How do endocrine glands regulate body functions?

Answer 12

By secreting hormones that act on target tissues to maintain homeostasis.

Question 13

What are the symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome?

Answer 13

Severe skin reactions, including rash, blistering, and peeling, often caused by medication reactions.

Question 14

What is the role of insulin in glucose metabolism?

Answer 14

Insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells for energy production.

Question 15

How does chronic inflammation affect physiology?

Answer 15

It can lead to tissue damage and contribute to diseases such as arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

Question 16

What is the function of the autonomic nervous system in physiology?

Answer 16

It regulates involuntary body functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Question 17

What is a teratogen?

Answer 17

A substance that can cause developmental abnormalities or birth defects in a fetus.

Question 18

How are teratogenic risks of psychotropics classified?

Answer 18

Using categories (e.g., FDA categories A, B, C, D, X) to indicate the level of fetal risk.

Question 19

What is homeostasis?

Answer 19

The body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Question 20

How does the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis respond to stress?

Answer 20

It releases cortisol, which helps the body manage stress but can lead to negative effects if chronically activated.

Question 21

What is the role of red blood cells in physiology?

Answer 21

To transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

Question 22

How does the immune system distinguish between self and non-self?

Answer 22

Through specialized cells and receptors that identify foreign antigens while tolerating the body’s own tissues.

Question 23

What is the role of the lymphatic system in physiology?

Answer 23

It maintains fluid balance, absorbs dietary fats, and provides immune defense.

Question 24

What is the function of platelets in blood clotting?

Answer 24

Platelets aggregate at injury sites to form clots and prevent blood loss.

Question 25

How do electrolyte imbalances affect the body?

Answer 25

They can disrupt nerve function, muscle contraction, and hydration levels.