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

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - Bone Cells

Anatomy & Physiology

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - Bone Cells

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3:25 minutes

Problem 21

Textbook Question

Deborah, a 75-year-old woman, stumbled slightly while walking, then felt a terrible pain in her left hip. At the hospital, X-ray images revealed that the hip was broken. Also, the compact bone and spongy bone throughout her spine were very thin. What was her probable condition?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by identifying the symptoms described in the problem. Deborah experienced a hip fracture and has thin compact and spongy bone throughout her spine. These symptoms suggest a condition affecting bone density and strength.

Step 2: Recall the anatomy and physiology of bones. Compact bone provides strength and structure, while spongy bone is lighter and supports bone marrow. Both types of bone are affected by conditions that reduce bone density, such as osteoporosis.

Step 3: Understand the risk factors for osteoporosis. Age is a significant factor, especially in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen levels, which play a role in maintaining bone density. Deborah's age (75 years) and gender make her highly susceptible to this condition.

Step 4: Consider the physiological mechanism of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis occurs when the balance between bone resorption (breakdown) and bone formation is disrupted, leading to decreased bone mass and increased fragility. This explains the thin bones and susceptibility to fractures.

Step 5: Conclude that Deborah's probable condition is osteoporosis, based on her symptoms, age, gender, and the description of her bone structure. Further diagnostic tests, such as a bone density scan (DEXA), would confirm this diagnosis.

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Key Concepts

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

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. It often occurs due to a decrease in bone density, which can be influenced by factors such as age, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. In older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, osteoporosis is a common cause of hip fractures and spinal issues.

Bone Density

Bone density refers to the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue, which is crucial for maintaining bone strength and integrity. It is typically measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans. Low bone density indicates a higher risk of fractures and is a key indicator of conditions like osteoporosis, especially in aging populations.

Fracture Types

Fractures are classified into different types based on their characteristics and causes. A common type in older adults is a low-energy fracture, which occurs from minimal trauma, such as a fall. Hip fractures are particularly concerning as they can lead to significant morbidity and complications, often requiring surgical intervention and rehabilitation.

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The vitamins essential for normal adult bone maintenance and repair are:

(a) A and E

(b) C and D3

(d) B complex and K

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Compare and contrast controls of bone remodeling exerted by hormones and by mechanical and gravitational forces, including the purpose of each control system and changes in bone architecture that might occur.

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Formation of the bony callus in fracture repair is followed by:

a. Hematoma formation

b. Fibrocartilaginous callus formation

c. Bone remodeling

d. Formation of granulation tissue

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Textbook Question

While playing on her swing set, 10-year-old Sally falls and breaks her right leg. At the emergency room, the doctor tells her parents that the proximal end of the tibia where the epiphysis meets the diaphysis is fractured. The fracture is properly set and eventually heals. During a routine physical when she is 18, Sally learns that her right leg is 2 cm shorter than her left, probably because of her accident. What might account for this difference?

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Textbook Question

The primary reason that osteoporosis accelerates after menopause in women is:

(a) Reduced levels of circulating estrogens

(b) Reduced levels of vitamin C

(d) Increased osteoblast activity

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Textbook Question

The nonpathologic loss of bone that occurs with aging is called:

(a) Osteomyelitis