Question 1

Which hormone is primarily responsible for increasing blood calcium levels, and what is its mechanism of action?

Accepted Answer

Parathyroid hormone (PTH); it stimulates osteoclasts to break down bone matrix, releasing calcium into the blood.

Question 2

A patient presents with a pathologic hip fracture and a DXA scan reveals low bone density. Which cellular activity is most likely increased in this patient?

Accepted Answer

Osteoclast activity

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the structure and function of the periosteum?

Accepted Answer

A strong membrane covering bone except at joint surfaces, involved in bone growth and repair

Question 4

Which bone type is the vertebra classified as, and what is a key feature of its structure?

Accepted Answer

Irregular bone; complex shape with both compact and cancellous bone

Question 5

A 70-year-old woman with a BMI of 18, history of smoking, and chronic glucocorticoid use is at high risk for which skeletal disorder, and why?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis; due to increased osteoclast activity and loss of bone matrix

Question 6

Which of the following joints allows for the greatest range of motion and is an example of a diarthrosis?

Accepted Answer

Hip joint

Question 7

Which anatomical feature is unique to the cervical vertebrae and allows for the 'yes' and 'no' head movements?

Accepted Answer

Atlas and axis with the dens (odontoid process)

Question 8

A patient with a lateral curvature of the spine is diagnosed with which condition, and what is the normal adult spinal curvature called?

Accepted Answer

Scoliosis; S-shaped curvature

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the microscopic structure of compact bone?

Accepted Answer

Organized into osteons (haversian systems) with concentric lamellae surrounding a central canal

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct pairing of bone and its classification?

Accepted Answer

Humerus – long bone

Question 11

A patient is unable to extend their elbow after a fall. Which type of joint and movement is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Hinge joint; extension

Question 12

Which of the following statements about the female pelvis is correct?

Accepted Answer

The female pelvis has a wider pubic angle and a larger pelvic inlet to facilitate childbirth.

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a function of the skeletal system?

Accepted Answer

Production of hormones

Question 14

Which bone is NOT part of the axial skeleton?

Accepted Answer

Femur

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the process of intramembranous ossification?

Accepted Answer

Bone forms from a connective tissue membrane, as seen in the development of flat bones

Question 16

A patient with osteoarthritis is most likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Stiffness, crepitus, and pain that worsens with movement and improves with rest

Question 17

Which of the following is true regarding the structure of flat bones?

Accepted Answer

They consist of two layers of compact bone with cancellous bone (diploe) in between.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct description of the function of articular cartilage?

Accepted Answer

It covers the epiphyses of long bones and acts as a cushion at joints.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of trabeculae in bone?

Accepted Answer

They form the lattice-like structure of spongy bone, providing strength while reducing weight.

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct pairing of joint type and example?

Accepted Answer

Pivot joint – atlantoaxial joint

The Skeletal System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Correlates

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