A1 Introduction to Pathology

Question 1

define homeostasis

Answer 1

Normal function - a balance between the physiological demands and the constraints of cell structure and metabolic capacity

Question 2

explain overview of cellular responses to stress & noxious stimuli

Answer 2

(1) HOMEOSTASIS (normal cell)

undergoes stress, increased demand: (2) ADAPTATION (able/unable) -> CELL INJURY, CELL DEATH

injurious stimulus: (2) CELL INJURY, CELL DEATH

Question 3

state & explain 4 cellular adaptations

Answer 3

hypertrophy: increase in cell size leading to an increase in organ size, physiological (skeletal muscle) or pathological (cardiac enlargement), caused by increased functional demand or hormonal stimulation
hyperplasia: increase in cell number/ cell replication, physiological (hormonal, puberty) or pathological (wound healing), caused by increased functional demand or hormonal stimulation

hypertrophy & hyperplasia often coexist ie. during pregnancy

atrophy: decrease in cell size leading to decrease in organ state, physiological (menopause) or pathological (loss of innervation), caused by