what condition might result from lack of vitamin c

HESI A2

HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Practice Test

1. What condition might result from a lack of vitamin C?

A. Kwashiorkor
B. Pellagra
C. Rickets
D. Scurvy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Scurvy is the correct answer. Scurvy is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and its deficiency leads to symptoms such as weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, joint pain, fatigue, and easy bruising. If left untreated, scurvy can lead to more severe complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition due to insufficient protein intake, pellagra is caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3), and rickets results from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate.

2. To which system do the ovaries belong?

A. skeletal system
B. nervous system
C. lymphatic system
D. reproductive system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: reproductive system. The ovaries are essential organs of the female reproductive system. They play a vital role in producing eggs and secreting hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The skeletal system (choice A) consists of bones and tissues that support the body, the nervous system (choice B) controls body functions and responses, and the lymphatic system (choice C) helps the body fight off infections. Therefore, the ovaries belong to the reproductive system.

3. Which structure in the kidney filters blood to form urine?

A. Nephron
B. Glomerulus
C. Bowman's capsule
D. Loop of Henle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The glomerulus is a key structure in the kidney responsible for filtering blood. It consists of a network of capillaries that filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, allowing the formation of urine. While the nephron, Bowman's capsule, and Loop of Henle are also essential components of the kidney's filtration system, the glomerulus is specifically involved in the initial blood filtration process. The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtrate, and the Loop of Henle is responsible for reabsorption and concentration of urine, not the initial blood filtration.

4. What is the main function of the large intestine?

A. Absorption of nutrients
B. Absorption of water
C. Secretion of digestive enzymes
D. Breaking down fats

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the large intestine is the absorption of water and electrolytes from indigestible food residues, helping to form solid waste (feces) for elimination. It mainly reabsorbs water and compacts the remaining material into feces, playing a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because absorption of nutrients primarily occurs in the small intestine, secretion of digestive enzymes mainly occurs in the stomach and small intestine, and breaking down fats primarily occurs in the small intestine with the help of bile from the liver and enzymes.

5. What is the primary role of the large intestine?

A. To absorb nutrients
B. To absorb water
C. To break down food
D. To secrete digestive enzymes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To absorb water. The primary role of the large intestine is to absorb water from indigestible food matter. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste for excretion. Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, not the large intestine. Breaking down food and secreting digestive enzymes are functions primarily associated with the stomach and small intestine.