Neurology/Psych

Question 1

This graph is characteristic of what neuromuscular disease? Explain.

Answer 1

Myasthenia gravis - the end place current is graded depending on how many N-Ach receptors are activated, motor end-plate potential never reaches the threshold required to trigger an action potential in the muscle cell

Question 2

Name the four major dopaminergic pathways in the brain. Then, answer the following:

1. Which pathway is primarily responsible for the positive symptoms of schizophrenia?
2. Which pathway is involved in the negative symptoms of schizophrenia?
3. Which pathway is involved in elevated prolactin -> galactorrhea?
4. Which pathway is responsible for dyskinesia seen as a side effect of anti-psychotic meds?

Answer 2

Mesolimbic, mesocortical, tuberoinfundibular, nigrostriatal

1. Mesolimbic: positive symptoms of schizophrenia
2. Mesocortical: negative symptoms of schizophrenia
3. Tuberoinfundibular: galactorrhea from low dopamine -> increased prolactin
4. Nigrostriatal: extra-pyramidal side effects of anti-psychotic medications

Question 3

Which brain region is responsible for executive function and personality?

Answer 3

Frontal lobe

Question 4

Damage to the ______ lobe is known to be associated with disinhibited behavior.

Answer 4

Right frontal lobe

Question 5

Damage to the _______ is known to have an association with apathy and depression.

Answer 5

Left frontal lobe

Question 6

What is the difference between acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder?

Answer 6

Duration of symptoms:

ASD is from 3 days to one month

PTSD is longer than one month

Question 7

Describe the criteria for the Dx of schizoaffective disorder.

Answer 7

Schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations, disordered thoughts) + a mood disorder for most of the time (bipolar or depression) for 6+ months.