Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of intervertebral discs in the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

They act as shock absorbers between vertebrae.

Question 2

A patient presents with a pronounced thoracic curvature resulting in a 'hunchback' appearance. Which condition is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Kyphosis

Question 3

Which vertebra is known as the 'atlas' and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

C1; supports the skull and allows nodding motion

Question 4

A newborn is diagnosed with spina bifida myelomeningocele. Which of the following symptoms is most likely to be present?

Accepted Answer

Partial or complete loss of lower limb function

Question 5

Which of the following statements about the sacrum is correct?

Accepted Answer

It consists of 5 fused vertebrae and forms the posterior wall of the pelvis.

Question 6

Which ribs are classified as 'floating ribs' and why?

Accepted Answer

Ribs 11-12; because they do not attach to the sternum at all

Question 7

A 30-year-old woman develops lumbar lordosis during pregnancy. Which of the following best explains this change?

Accepted Answer

Increased weight in the abdomen causes the lumbar spine to curve inward.

Question 8

Which of the following best differentiates cervical vertebrae from thoracic and lumbar vertebrae?

Accepted Answer

Cervical vertebrae are thinner, more delicate, and have transverse foramina.

Question 9

A patient is found to have a lateral curvature of the spine with one shoulder higher than the other. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Scoliosis

Question 10

Which of the following is a secondary spinal curvature that develops as a child begins to walk upright?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar curvature

Question 11

A trauma patient has a fractured rib that punctured the lung. Which ribs are most likely to cause this type of injury due to their anatomical position?

Accepted Answer

Floating ribs (11-12)

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the difference between true, false, and floating ribs?

Accepted Answer

True ribs attach directly to the sternum, false ribs attach indirectly, and floating ribs do not attach to the sternum.

Question 13

A deficiency in which vitamin is most closely associated with the development of rickets and abnormal vertebral growth in children?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D

Question 14

Which prenatal intervention is most effective in reducing the risk of spina bifida in newborns?

Accepted Answer

Supplementation with folic acid

Question 15

A patient with osteoporosis is at increased risk for which type of abnormal spinal curvature due to vertebral compression fractures?

Accepted Answer

Kyphosis

Question 16

Which of the following formulas correctly represents the total number of vertebrae in the adult human vertebral column before fusion?

Accepted Answer

$$C_7 + T$$_{12} + $$L_5$$ + $$S_5$$ + $$Co_4 = 33$

Question 17

A 5-year-old child is diagnosed with spina bifida meningocele. Which of the following best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

The meninges protrude through the vertebral defect, forming a fluid-filled sac, but the spinal cord remains in place.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why scoliosis is more common in adolescent girls?

Accepted Answer

Hormonal changes during puberty may affect muscle and bone growth, increasing risk.

Question 19

Which anatomical feature is present in all typical vertebrae and serves as a passageway for the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Vertebral foramen

Question 20

A patient is found to have a defect in the closure of the vertebral arch at L5, with a small dimple and no neurological symptoms. Which type of spina bifida is this?

Accepted Answer

Spina bifida occulta

Axial Skeleton: Vertebral Column, Abnormal Curvatures, Spina Bifida, and Bony Thorax

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards