What is the main neurotransmitter abnormality in Tourette's?
Dopamine
Serotonin
Glutamate
GABA
The Correct Answer is A
A. Dopamine. Tourette’s syndrome is primarily associated with dopamine dysregulation, particularly increased dopamine activity in the basal ganglia. This overactivity leads to excessive, involuntary motor and vocal tics. Dopamine-blocking medications, such as antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone), can help reduce tic severity.
B. Serotonin. While serotonin plays a role in mood regulation and impulse control, it is not the primary neurotransmitter involved in Tourette’s. However, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be used to treat co-occurring obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety symptoms in Tourette’s patients.
C. Glutamate is the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter, involved in learning and memory. While some research suggests glutamate imbalances may contribute to tic severity and compulsive behaviors, dopamine remains the key neurotransmitter in Tourette’s pathology.
D. GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, responsible for reducing neural excitability. Though impaired GABAergic inhibition may contribute to tic generation, the main abnormality in Tourette’s involves dopamine overactivity in the basal ganglia and cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuits.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Micromanages others. Individuals with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) exhibit excessive control and perfectionism, often micromanaging tasks and people to ensure everything is done "correctly." They struggle with delegating responsibilities because they believe others will not meet their high standards.
B. Perfectionist. Rigid perfectionism is a core feature of OCPD. Individuals set unrealistically high expectations for themselves and others, leading to chronic dissatisfaction, procrastination, and inefficiency because they fear making mistakes.
C. Workaholic. Those with OCPD are often preoccupied with work and productivity, sometimes neglecting personal relationships and leisure activities. They may prioritize tasks over social interactions, believing that relaxation is a sign of laziness.
D. Wants to be alone. Unlike schizoid personality disorder, individuals with OCPD do not prefer isolation. They often engage with others in structured environments but struggle in relationships due to their rigid expectations, stubbornness, and excessive control over details rather than a genuine desire to be alone.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fear of rejection. Individuals with avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) have an intense fear of rejection or criticism, leading them to avoid social situations, relationships, and new experiences despite wanting social connection. This fear stems from deep feelings of inadequacy.
B. Jealous of others. Jealousy is not a defining trait of AVPD but is more commonly associated with narcissistic or borderline personality disorders. People with AVPD are more self-critical and insecure rather than envious of others’ success or relationships.
C. Afraid to make new relationships. Those with AVPD struggle to form new relationships due to fear of embarrassment, criticism, or social failure. They often require strong reassurance and validation before feeling comfortable in social settings.
D. Avoids social interactions. Avoidance of social interactions is a hallmark of AVPD, as individuals tend to withdraw from work, friendships, and social activities to protect themselves from perceived humiliation or failure.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.