xNR 507 Sample Exam Questions on GI & CNS Pathologies

Rationale: In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid fails to produce T4, stimulating the pituitary to secrete more TSH. 5. A patient with Cushing’s syndrome is expected to have which clinical feature? A. Hypotension and weight loss B. Hyperpigmentation and muscle wasting C. Central obesity and hyperglycemia D. Bradycardia and cold intolerance Answer: C Rationale: Excess cortisol causes central fat redistribution, elevated glucose, and muscle catabolism. 6. Which of the following is the primary cause of Type 1 diabetes mellitus? A. Insulin resistance B. Autoimmune destruction of beta cells C. Decreased glucagon secretion D. Pancreatic duct obstruction Answer: B Rationale: Type 1 DM results from autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells, leading to insulin deficiency. CNS Sensory & Motor Pathologies 7. The hallmark finding of Guillain-Barré syndrome is: A. Symmetrical ascending paralysis B. Unilateral facial drooping C. Intention tremors D. Spastic paralysis Answer: A Rationale: GBS causes demyelination of peripheral nerves, starting in the lower limbs and ascending upward. 8. Which neurotransmitter imbalance is most associated with schizophrenia? A. Decreased serotonin B. Increased dopamine C. Decreased acetylcholine D. Increased GABA Answer: B Answer: B Rationale: EEG records electrical activity of the brain and helps identify seizure types and origin. Dermatologic Pathologies 13. Which skin condition is most associated with silvery plaques on extensor surfaces? A. Rosacea B. Psoriasis vulgaris C. Contact dermatitis D. Seborrheic keratosis Answer: B Rationale: Plaque psoriasis presents as thick, scaly, silver-colored plaques on elbows, knees, and scalp. 14. A key factor determining prognosis in melanoma is: A. Lesion color B. Depth of invasion (Breslow thickness) C. Lesion diameter D. Presence of itching Answer: B Rationale: Breslow depth (vertical tumor thickness) is the most important prognostic indicator. Neurobiological Pathologies 15. Which neurotransmitter dysregulation contributes to major depressive disorder? A. Increased dopamine and serotonin B. Decreased serotonin and norepinephrine C. Increased acetylcholine D. Decreased GABA Answer: B Rationale: Depression is linked to decreased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. 16. SSRIs are preferred for depression because they: A. Increase dopamine activity B. Reduce reuptake of serotonin in synapses C. Block acetylcholine receptors D. Increase norepinephrine degradation B. Evaluate for potential drug–drug interactions C. Encourage high-protein intake D. Stop all other medications immediately Answer: B Rationale: Rifampin induces hepatic enzymes, reducing the efficacy of many drugs; interactions must be assessed carefully. 21–100: NR507 Advanced Pathophysiology — Practice Questions (80) 21. A 7-year-old with recurrent infections is found to have low B-cell numbers. This most likely indicates: A. Primary immunodeficiency affecting humoral immunity. Rationale: B cells mediate humoral immunity; low B cells suggest primary humoral immunodeficiency. 22. Type II hypersensitivity reactions are best described as: A. Antibody-mediated tissue damage against cell-surface antigens. Rationale: Type II uses IgG/IgM against cells leading to complement activation or opsonization. 23. Anaphylaxis immediately after penicillin administration is an example of: A. Type I hypersensitivity (IgE mediated). Rationale: Rapid systemic allergic reactions involve IgE cross-linking and histamine release. 24. Classic lab sign of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) includes: A. Positive anti-dsDNA antibodies. Rationale: Anti-dsDNA antibodies are highly specific for SLE