PTSD PTSD Neurobiology & Physiological Responses 2

Question 1

Which brain region shows reduced activity in PTSD, contributing to difficulty regulating emotional responses?

Accepted Answer

Ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Answer

Hypoactivation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex reduces top-down inhibition of the amygdala, impairing emotional regulation.

Question 2

How does chronic PTSD affect the default mode network (DMN)?

Accepted Answer

The DMN shows altered connectivity associated with intrusive symptoms and self-referential rumination

Answer

Disrupted DMN connectivity in PTSD is linked to intrusive memories, self-referential processing disturbances, and rumination.

Question 3

What physical symptom related to autonomic dysregulation is commonly measured in PTSD research?

Accepted Answer

Decreased heart rate variability (HRV)

Answer

Decreased HRV reflects impaired parasympathetic regulation and is a reliable biomarker of autonomic dysfunction in PTSD.

Question 4

Which inflammatory process has been increasingly linked to PTSD symptom severity?

Accepted Answer

Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α

Answer

Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines are associated with PTSD severity and may contribute to depression, sleep disturbance, and cognitive impairment.

Question 5

What is the significance of the insula in PTSD symptomatology?

Accepted Answer

It processes interoceptive signals and is hyperactive in PTSD, contributing to somatic symptoms

Answer

Insula hyperactivation in PTSD contributes to heightened body-based threat awareness, somatic complaints, and emotional dysregulation.

(PTSD) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Certification Practice Test