Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

Anatomy & Physiology

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

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Problem 10d

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
d. Hypocalcemia causes neurons to become hyperexcitable, leading to potential tetanic contractions.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the term 'hypocalcemia': Hypocalcemia refers to a condition where there is a lower-than-normal level of calcium in the blood. Calcium plays a critical role in muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and maintaining the stability of cell membranes.

Analyze the effect of hypocalcemia on neurons: Calcium ions are essential for stabilizing the resting membrane potential of neurons. A deficiency in calcium (hypocalcemia) reduces the threshold for action potential generation, making neurons more excitable.

Relate hyperexcitability to tetanic contractions: Hyperexcitable neurons can lead to excessive stimulation of muscles, potentially causing sustained muscle contractions, also known as tetanic contractions.

Evaluate the statement: The statement 'Hypocalcemia causes neurons to become hyperexcitable, leading to potential tetanic contractions' is true because it accurately describes the physiological effects of low calcium levels on neuronal and muscular activity.

Conclude the assessment: Since the statement is true, no correction is needed. If it were false, the correction would involve explaining the role of calcium in stabilizing neuronal activity and preventing hyperexcitability.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia refers to a condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood. Calcium is crucial for various physiological functions, including muscle contraction and neurotransmitter release. When calcium levels drop, it can disrupt normal cellular activities, particularly in neurons and muscle cells, leading to increased excitability and potential complications.

Neuronal Excitability

Neuronal excitability is the ability of neurons to respond to stimuli and generate action potentials. Changes in ion concentrations, such as calcium, sodium, and potassium, significantly influence this excitability. In the case of hypocalcemia, the reduced calcium levels can lead to increased neuronal firing, which may result in symptoms like muscle spasms or tetany.

Tetany

Tetany is a condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often resulting from electrolyte imbalances, including low calcium levels. In hypocalcemia, the heightened excitability of neurons can lead to sustained muscle contractions, causing symptoms such as cramps and spasms. Understanding the relationship between calcium levels and muscle function is essential for recognizing and treating tetany.

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Parathyroid hormone (PTH) increases Ca²⁺ deposition in the bones.