1. Which of the following is the primary mechanism of action in the
pathophysiology of atherosclerosis?
• A) Increased platelet aggregation
• B) Endothelial injury and inflammation
• C) Smooth muscle atrophy
• D) Immune cell hyperactivation
Answer: B) Endothelial injury and inflammation
Rationale: Atherosclerosis begins with damage to the endothelial cells,
which leads to an inflammatory response. This results in the
accumulation of lipids, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and the
formation of plaques. Platelet aggregation also plays a role, but the
initial event is endothelial injury.
2. What is the primary effect of aldosterone in the body?
• A) Decreases sodium reabsorption
• B) Increases potassium secretion
• C) Reduces water retention
• D) Stimulates the renin-angiotensin system
Answer: B) Increases potassium secretion
Rationale: Aldosterone acts on the kidneys to increase sodium
reabsorption and potassium excretion. It also contributes to water
retention indirectly by enhancing sodium reabsorption, which in turn
draws water into the bloodstream.
,3. In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), what is the primary
cause of the hypoxemia?
• A) Pulmonary embolism
• B) V/Q mismatch
• C) Decreased hemoglobin levels
• D) Inadequate ventilation due to airway obstruction
Answer: B) V/Q mismatch
Rationale: ARDS leads to alveolar damage and inflammation, resulting
in a mismatch between ventilation and perfusion (V/Q mismatch). This
prevents effective gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia. Pulmonary
embolism and airway obstruction are not the primary mechanisms in
ARDS.
4. Which of the following is a major pathophysiological factor in the
development of type 2 diabetes mellitus?
• A) Insulin resistance
• B) Decreased insulin production by the pancreas
• C) Increased glucagon secretion
• D) Inhibition of glucose uptake by the liver
Answer: A) Insulin resistance
Rationale: Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where
the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. This results in
elevated blood glucose levels despite normal or even increased insulin
production by the pancreas.
, 5. What is the primary cause of the metabolic acidosis seen in diabetic
ketoacidosis (DKA)?
• A) Excessive renal bicarbonate loss
• B) Increased lactic acid production
• C) Accumulation of ketone bodies
• D) Decreased renal hydrogen ion excretion
Answer: C) Accumulation of ketone bodies
Rationale: In DKA, a lack of insulin leads to lipolysis and the formation
of ketone bodies (acetoacetate, acetone, and beta-hydroxybutyrate).
These acids accumulate in the blood, leading to metabolic acidosis.
6. Which of the following is a hallmark sign of congestive heart failure
(CHF)?
• A) Decreased cardiac output and fluid retention
• B) Hypervolemia and vasodilation
• C) Increased renal perfusion and fluid retention
• D) Reduced blood volume and tachycardia
Answer: A) Decreased cardiac output and fluid retention
Rationale: In CHF, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to
decreased cardiac output. This triggers compensatory mechanisms such
as fluid retention by the kidneys and increased blood volume,
exacerbating symptoms.
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