Special Senses Review

Which of the following NOT a taste sensation

• spicy

• sweet

• salty

• sour

• bitter

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'spicy' because it is not a basic taste sensation. The primary taste sensations are sweet, salty, sour, and bitter, while spiciness is a sensation related to pain receptors, not taste buds.

taste:

• olfactory

• gustatory

• auditory

Answer explanation

The sense of taste is primarily associated with the gustatory system, which detects flavors through taste buds. The olfactory system relates to smell, while auditory pertains to hearing, making 'gustatory' the correct choice.

Smell hallucinations often experienced by epileptics before a seizure:

• anosmias

• olfactory auras

• papillae

• gustatory cells

Answer explanation

Olfactory auras are specific types of smell hallucinations that can occur before a seizure in epileptics. Anosmias refer to loss of smell, while papillae and gustatory cells relate to taste, making olfactory auras the correct choice.

Loss of smell due to stroke, colds, allergies...

• anosmias

• olfactory auras

• papillae

• gustatory cells

Answer explanation

Anosmia refers to the loss of smell, which can occur due to various conditions like stroke, colds, or allergies. The other options do not specifically relate to the loss of smell, making anosmia the correct choice.

Which is not a location to find gustatory cells/hairs?

• palate

• tongue

• throat

• cheeks

Answer explanation

Gustatory cells, responsible for taste, are primarily located on the tongue, palate, and cheeks. The throat does not contain these cells, making it the correct answer as a location where gustatory cells/hairs are not found.

Looking at far away objects and objects in the dark both have which effect on pupils?

• pupils dilate

• pupils get smaller

Answer explanation

Looking at far away objects and in the dark causes pupils to dilate. This response helps to allow more light in, improving visibility in low-light conditions and enhancing focus on distant objects.

Lancing the tympanic membrane and inserting a tube is called a

• myringotomy

• anosmias

• strabismus

• ossicles

Answer explanation

Lancing the tympanic membrane and inserting a tube is known as myringotomy. This procedure is performed to relieve pressure or drain fluid from the middle ear, making myringotomy the correct answer.

What does the ceruminous glands secrete?

• sweat

• oil

• earwax

• mucus

Answer explanation

Ceruminous glands are specialized sweat glands located in the ear canal that secrete earwax, also known as cerumen. This substance helps protect the ear by trapping dust and debris, making 'earwax' the correct answer.

Where do most common ear infections occur?

• inner ear

• outer ear

• middle ear

• auditory tube

• external auditory canal

Answer explanation

Most common ear infections occur in the middle ear, known as otitis media. This area is prone to infections due to its connection to the nasal passages and sinuses, making it a frequent site for bacterial or viral infections.

Where is equilibrium located?

• inner ear

• outer ear

• middle ear

• auditory tube

• external auditory canal

Answer explanation

Equilibrium is located in the inner ear, specifically within the vestibular system, which helps maintain balance and spatial orientation.