exam 3 essay questions

The skeletal system plays an integral role in storing and making Ca++ accessible for various activities within the bodies including muscle contractions and glandular secretions. Discuss the hormonal regulations of calcium and the cells responsible for the metabolic activity of calcium release and storage.

Calcium is essential for muscle contraction, nerve function, blood clotting, and glandular secretion. The skeleton stores most of the body's calcium and releases it when needed. Three hormones regulate calcium levels: Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) increases blood calcium by stimulating osteoclasts to break down bone, Vitamin D increases calcium absorption from the intestines, and Calcitonin lowers blood calcium by promoting calcium storage in bone.Calcium is vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and supporting proper muscle function

What are the differences between Osteomalacia and Osteoporosis? What are the treatment regimens and what measures can be taken prophylactically for each condition?

Osteomalacia is caused by vitamin D deficiency, resulting in soft bones. Treatment includes vitamin D, calcium supplements, and sunlight exposure. Osteoporosis is a loss of bone density that makes bones porous and fragile, often due to aging or menopause. Treatment includes calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and medications such as bisphosphonates. Prevention for both conditions involves proper nutrition, exercise, and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels.

Discuss interstitial and appositional bone growth. How might a fracture at the “growth plate” of a long bone in an eleven year older potentially effect long term growth at the effected site. (Include in your answer the activities at the various zones of the epiphyseal plate)

Bones grow in length through interstitial growth at the epiphyseal (growth) plate and grow in width through appositional growth beneath the periosteum. The growth plate contains five zones: resting, proliferation, hypertrophy, calcification, and ossification. A fracture involving the growth plate in an eleven-year-old can damage these zones, causing premature closure of the plate and potentially resulting in shortened bone growth or deformity.

The integumentary system is the largest organ system of the body. Discuss the physiological roles of the integument and how might living in a sunlight deprived region effect other organ systems both short and long term.

The integumentary system consists of the skin, hair, nails, and glands. Its major functions are protection, temperature regulation, sensation, prevention of water loss, and vitamin D production. Sunlight exposure allows the skin to produce vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption and healthy bones. Living in a sunlight-deprived region can lead to vitamin D deficiency, weakened bones, increased fracture risk, muscle weakness, immune dysfunction, and mood disorders such as seasonal affective disorder.