Electrolyte Imbalances and Immunity Quiz

Sodium is the primary extracellular cation responsible for maintaining osmotic balance and regulating water distribution in the body.

Potassium is the main intracellular cation responsible for establishing and maintaining the resting membrane potential in cells.

Cell-mediated immunity is a type of immune response mediated by T lymphocytes, which directly target and destroy infected or abnormal cells.

Lymphocytes, particularly B lymphocytes (B cells), are primarily responsible for antibody production as part of the adaptive immune response.

Passive immunity is acquired through the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another, providing immediate but temporary protection against specific pathogens or toxins.

The normal serum sodium concentration in the human body typically ranges from 135 to 145 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can cause muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and neurological symptoms like seizures due to disruptions in nerve and muscle function.

Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can lead to prolongation of the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which may predispose individuals to cardiac arrhythmias.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is essential for regulating serum calcium levels by increasing calcium reabsorption from the bones and kidneys and promoting calcium absorption in the intestines.

Hyperphosphatemia, or elevated phosphate levels, is commonly observed in patients with chronic renal failure due to impaired phosphate excretion by the kidneys.

Tetany, or involuntary muscle spasms, is not typically associated with hypercalcemia; instead, it is more commonly observed in hypocalcemia, which is low calcium levels.

Neutropenia is a condition characterized by a decreased number of circulating neutrophils, a type of white blood cell important for fighting infections.

Aldosterone primarily acts on the renal tubules in the kidneys to regulate electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, and control blood pressure.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) stimulates bone resorption, releasing calcium into the bloodstream, and enhances calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, thereby increasing serum calcium levels.

Regulatory T cells, also known as suppressor T cells, play a crucial role in suppressing excessive immune responses and preventing autoimmune reactions by modulating the activity of other immune cells.

Hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels, can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes such as peaked T waves, which may progress to more severe arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.