CHS Pathophysiology of Hypertension 2

Question 1

Which component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) directly causes vasoconstriction and stimulates aldosterone release?

Accepted Answer

Angiotensin II

Answer

Angiotensin II is the primary effector of the RAAS, directly causing potent vasoconstriction via AT1 receptors and stimulating aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex.

Question 2

In essential hypertension, increased sympathetic nervous system activity contributes to elevated blood pressure primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Increased renal sodium retention and peripheral vasoconstriction

Answer

Sympathetic overactivity raises blood pressure by increasing peripheral vascular resistance through vasoconstriction and promoting renal sodium and water retention via beta-adrenergic stimulation of renin release.

Question 3

Endothelial dysfunction in hypertension is characterized by reduced bioavailability of which vasodilatory molecule?

Accepted Answer

Nitric oxide

Answer

Reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilation, a hallmark of endothelial dysfunction that both contributes to and results from hypertension.

Question 4

Which receptor subtype, when overstimulated by catecholamines, increases heart rate and cardiac contractility, contributing to hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Beta-1 adrenergic receptor

Answer

Beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the myocardium mediate positive chronotropic and inotropic effects of catecholamines, increasing cardiac output and thus blood pressure.

Question 5

The enzyme aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) in the adrenal zona glomerulosa converts deoxycorticosterone to aldosterone. What is the primary physiological stimulus for its increased activity in hypertension?

Accepted Answer

Elevated serum potassium and angiotensin II

Answer

Aldosterone synthesis is primarily stimulated by elevated serum potassium and angiotensin II, with secondary stimulation from ACTH, all of which can be upregulated in hypertensive states.

(CHS) Certified Hypertension Specialist Practice Test

(CHS) Certified Hypertension Specialist Practice Test

CHS Pathophysiology of Hypertension 2