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. Which organ in the digestive system absorbs nutrients?

A. Stomach
B. Small intestine
C. Large intestine
D. Esophagus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It plays a crucial role in absorbing digested food into the bloodstream, where the nutrients are then circulated to the body's cells for energy and other functions. The stomach primarily breaks down food through the action of acids and enzymes, while the large intestine absorbs water and salts, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach and does not participate in nutrient absorption.

3. Which hormone stimulates the production of red blood cells?

A. Insulin
B. Erythropoietin
C. Glucagon
D. Thyroxine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Erythropoietin is the correct answer. It is the hormone responsible for stimulating the production of red blood cells. Erythropoietin is produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. This hormone promotes the generation of more red blood cells to increase the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. Insulin (Choice A), Glucagon (Choice C), and Thyroxine (Choice D) do not stimulate the production of red blood cells. Insulin regulates blood sugar levels, Glucagon increases blood sugar levels, and Thyroxine regulates metabolism.

4. Which vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin K
D. Vitamin C

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium in the intestines, which is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It helps regulate calcium levels in the blood and promotes bone mineralization, making it an essential vitamin for overall bone health. Vitamin A (Choice A) is important for vision and immune function, not specifically for calcium absorption. Vitamin K (Choice C) is essential for blood clotting, while Vitamin C (Choice D) is known for its role in collagen production and antioxidant properties, but not directly related to calcium absorption.

5. Which type of muscles are involved in peristalsis?

A. Smooth muscles
B. Cardiac muscles
C. Skeletal muscles
D. Epaxial muscles

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Peristalsis is a coordinated, wave-like muscular contraction that propels food and other materials through the digestive tract. Smooth muscles are responsible for this movement in the gastrointestinal tract, providing the involuntary contractions needed for peristalsis to occur. Skeletal muscles, cardiac muscles, and epaxial muscles are not directly involved in peristalsis. Cardiac muscles are found in the heart and are responsible for its contraction. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones and control voluntary movements. Epaxial muscles are located along the vertebral column and are involved in the movement and stabilization of the spine.