UExcel Pathophysiology 2

Question 1

What is the pathophysiology of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)?

Accepted Answer

Widespread, dysregulated inflammation affecting multiple organ systems following infection or injury

Answer

Localized immune response limited to one organ system

Answer

Autoimmune destruction of white blood cells

Answer

Chronic low-grade inflammation limited to adipose tissue

Question 2

Which mechanism best explains edema formation in inflammation?

Accepted Answer

Increased capillary permeability allows fluid and proteins to leak into interstitial spaces

Answer

Decreased blood flow to the affected area

Answer

Reduced lymphatic drainage only

Answer

Decreased plasma protein production

Question 3

What occurs during a myocardial infarction?

Accepted Answer

Coronary artery occlusion causes ischemia and necrosis of myocardial tissue

Answer

The heart muscle hypertrophies due to increased workload

Answer

Heart valves become calcified and stop functioning

Answer

Pericardial fluid accumulates around the heart

Question 4

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) primarily causes:

Accepted Answer

Airflow obstruction due to airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and alveolar destruction

Answer

Decreased lung compliance and restrictive lung disease

Answer

Pulmonary edema and fluid accumulation

Answer

Increased diffusion capacity across the alveolar membrane

Question 5

What is the pathophysiological basis for hypertension-related end organ damage?

Accepted Answer

Chronically elevated pressure damages arterial walls and increases the workload on the heart and kidneys

Answer

Low blood pressure reduces perfusion to organs

Answer

Hypertension primarily affects only the lungs

Answer

Elevated pressure reduces cardiac output and oxygen delivery

Question 6

In shock, impaired tissue perfusion leads to cellular injury primarily through:

Accepted Answer

Hypoxia and anaerobic metabolism resulting in lactic acidosis and cell death

Answer

Excess oxygen delivery to cells

Answer

Decreased carbon dioxide levels in blood

Answer

Bacterial toxin production only