UExcel Pathophysiology

Question 1

What is the primary pathophysiological mechanism in type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Insulin resistance combined with relative insulin deficiency

Answer

Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance in peripheral tissues along with progressive beta-cell dysfunction and relative insulin deficiency.

Question 2

In heart failure, cardiac output decreases because:

Accepted Answer

The heart beats too fast to fill properly or cannot pump effectively enough to meet body demands

Answer

Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the body's metabolic demands, due to reduced contractility or impaired filling.

Question 3

What distinguishes a benign tumor from a malignant tumor?

Accepted Answer

Benign tumors are encapsulated and do not invade surrounding tissue; malignant tumors invade and can metastasize

Answer

Benign tumors are encapsulated and localized, while malignant tumors invade adjacent tissue and can spread (metastasize) to distant sites.

Question 4

Which cellular adaptation involves the replacement of one mature cell type with another?

Accepted Answer

Metaplasia

Answer

Metaplasia is the reversible substitution of one differentiated cell type for another, often in response to chronic irritation.

Question 5

What is the main cause of atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of lipids, inflammatory cells, and fibrous tissue forming plaques in arterial walls

Answer

Atherosclerosis results from endothelial injury followed by lipid deposition, inflammation, and plaque formation in arterial walls.

UExcel Practice Test

UExcel Practice Test

UExcel Pathophysiology