Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards

Which cranial nerve is tested when checking the gag reflex?

Answer: CN IX (glossopharyngeal) and CN X (vagus)

The afferent limb of the gag reflex is CN IX (glossopharyngeal) and the efferent motor response is mediated by CN X (vagus), together testing the integrity of the brainstem.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is primarily produced by:

Answer: Choroid plexus

The choroid plexus, located within the ventricles of the brain, produces approximately 500 mL of CSF per day by active secretion and ultrafiltration of plasma.

Normal adult tidal volume is approximately:

Answer: 500 mL

Normal adult tidal volume — the amount of air inhaled or exhaled in a single resting breath — is approximately 500 mL (7 mL/kg of ideal body weight).

The portal vein is formed by the union of which two vessels?

Answer: Superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein

The portal vein is formed by the confluence of the superior mesenteric vein and the splenic vein behind the neck of the pancreas, draining nutrient-rich blood to the liver.

Insulin is secreted by which cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans?

Answer: Beta cells

Beta cells of the islets of Langerhans secrete insulin in response to elevated blood glucose, promoting glucose uptake by cells and reducing blood sugar levels.

Which structure passes through the carpal tunnel alongside the flexor tendons?

Answer: Median nerve

The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel along with nine flexor tendons; compression of this nerve causes carpal tunnel syndrome characterized by thenar wasting and palmar paresthesias.