The pathophysiology of schizophrenia includes theories about abnormalities in neurotransmission. Which of the following has been suggested as a pathological basis for schizophrenia?
Excess dopamine in the mesolimbic pathway
Increased dopamine in the mesocortical pathway
Increased serotonin
Decreased glutamate
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Excess dopamine activity in the mesolimbic pathway is strongly associated with the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. This theory forms the basis for the use of antipsychotic medications, which block dopamine receptors to reduce these symptoms.
Choice B reason: Decreased dopamine activity in the mesocortical pathway, not increased, is linked to the negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia. This includes apathy, social withdrawal, and impaired executive function.
Choice C reason: While serotonin may play a modulatory role in schizophrenia, particularly in the mechanism of atypical antipsychotics, it is not the primary neurotransmitter implicated in the core pathophysiology of the disorder.
Choice D reason: Hypofunction of glutamate, particularly at NMDA receptors, has been proposed as a contributing factor to schizophrenia. However, this theory is still under investigation and is not as well-established as the dopamine hypothesis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: LABAs do improve lung function and quality of life when used appropriately, but this statement does not address the safety concerns of monotherapy. LABAs must be combined with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) to mitigate risks.
Choice B reason: LABAs are indeed recommended at step 3 of asthma management guidelines, but only in combination with ICS. Monotherapy with LABAs is contraindicated due to safety concerns.
Choice C reason: Monotherapy with LABAs has been associated with an increased risk of asthma-related deaths. This risk is mitigated when LABAs are used in combination with ICS, which address the underlying inflammation. Therefore, LABA monotherapy is not recommended.
Choice D reason: LABAs are not used for rescue therapy. Short-acting beta agonists (SABAs), such as albuterol, are the standard rescue medications for acute asthma symptoms. LABAs are used for maintenance therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While stress and environmental factors may exacerbate acne, they are not the primary pathophysiological mechanism. Acne vulgaris is fundamentally driven by changes in the pilosebaceous unit, not psychological or allergenic triggers alone.
Choice B reason: UVA/UVB exposure may contribute to skin damage and inflammation, but it is not the direct cause of acne. In fact, some UV exposure may temporarily suppress inflammation, though it is not a therapeutic strategy and does not explain the formation of acne lesions.
Choice C reason: Acne vulgaris results from obstruction and inflammation of pilosebaceous units. This process begins with increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, and colonization by Cutibacterium acnes, leading to comedones and inflammatory lesions such as papules, pustules, and nodules.
Choice D reason: Keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation abnormalities are more characteristic of conditions like psoriasis. While keratinization plays a role in acne, this description does not fully capture the multifactorial pathogenesis involving sebum, bacteria, and inflammation.
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