Normal Bone cell is known as?

Appeared in: AIIMS Rishikesh & Jodhpur NO - 2017

Explanation

Osteocytes are mature bone cells that have differentiated from osteoblasts.
They become embedded within the lacunae (small spaces) of the bone matrix they have secreted.
Their primary function is to maintain the mineral concentration of the matrix and to sense mechanical stress, thereby regulating the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts.
They are the most numerous cell type in mature bone tissue.

Option B: Osteoblasts are bone-forming cells, not mature bone cells. They are responsible for synthesizing and secreting the bone matrix.
Option C: Osteoclasts are responsible for bone resorption or breakdown, which is the opposite of maintaining bone tissue.
Option D: Monocytes are a type of white blood cell and are part of the immune system. They are not a structural component of bone tissue.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of bone cell types and their primary functions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the function of bone cells is fundamental to comprehending bone diseases. For instance, osteoporosis is characterized by an imbalance where osteoclast activity (bone resorption) outpaces osteoblast activity (bone formation), leading to decreased bone density and increased fracture risk.
Many pharmacological treatments for bone disorders target these cells. Bisphosphonates, a common treatment for osteoporosis, work by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in osteoclasts, thus reducing bone resorption.
What if? If a patient has a condition that significantly increases osteoclast activity, such as Paget's disease of bone or hyperparathyroidism, the nurse would monitor for signs of hypercalcemia (high calcium in the blood), bone pain, and pathological fractures, as excessive bone breakdown releases calcium into the bloodstream.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of basic histology.
First, identify the key term in the question: "Normal Bone cell". The word "normal" here implies a standard, mature, and stable cell.
Next, review the options provided, which are all cell types.
Recall the definitions of each cell: Osteocyte (maintains bone), Osteoblast (builds bone), Osteoclast (breaks down bone), and Monocyte (a white blood cell).
Match the definition of a mature, maintaining cell with the options. The osteocyte fits this description perfectly.
Eliminate the other options based on their specific functions (bone building, bone breakdown, or immune function).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 1163-1165

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 1005-1007

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 2 p. 143-145

Practise the full AIIMS Rishikesh & Jodhpur NO - 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.