Explain how cortisol suppresses the immune system, and why this is sometimes a useful therapy. What are some negative side effects of cortisol therapy? Why do doctors prescribe cortisol in doses that taper off at the end of the therapy period? Why do doctors sometimes prefer to prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?
What will be an ideal response?
Cortisol prevents cytokine release and antibody production by white blood cells and decreases leukocyte mobility
and migration; cortisol is thus an effective anti-inflammatory and antirejection drug for transplant patients.
Cortisol weakens the skeleton and alters brain function, in addition to suppressing the immune system. Because
cortisol suppresses ACTH production by negative feedback, the adrenal cortex atrophies during cortisol therapy.
Tapering off of dosing allows adrenal cortex function to return gradually. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories avoid
the negative side effects of cortisol therapy and are therefore more appropriate for minor inflammation.
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The parathyroid glands are located
A. just below the thalamus. B. within the thymus. C. above the kidneys. D. anterior to the thyroid gland. E. posterior to the thyroid gland.
The contraction of the biceps brachii and triceps brachii muscles can have secondary effects on the shoulder, but the primary action is on the ________ joint.
Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).
The laminae of the posterior vertebral arch do not unite atthe midline in individuals with which congenital defect?
a. osteoporosis b. spina bifida c. rickets d. cleft palate
There are several species of mammals where the males often mount other males, although penile intromission usually does not occur. The most accurate explanation of this behavior is that:
A. there is homosexual behavior among many species of mammals. B. this behavior is a reflection of the power hierarchy in the respective group. C. this behavior is a consequence of a scarcity of females in the group. D. this behavior is a good example of clitoral aggression