The cell body of neuron is also called as...?

Appeared in: DHS 2018 shift 1st

Explanation

Soma is the scientific term for the cell body of a neuron, also referred to as the perikaryon.
The soma contains the cell's nucleus, cytoplasm (neuroplasm), and essential organelles like mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, and Nissl bodies.
Its primary function is to control the metabolic and synthetic activities of the neuron, ensuring its survival and proper functioning.

Option A: A dendrite is not the cell body. It is a short, branched extension of a nerve cell.
Option B: An axon is not the cell body. It is a long, slender projection of a nerve cell.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct term, 'Soma', is provided in the options.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Structure of a Neuron as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the parts of a neuron is fundamental to grasping the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. The health of the soma is critical for neuron survival.
In conditions like Motor Neuron Disease (MND) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the progressive degeneration and death of the neuronal cell bodies (somas) lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventual death.
What if? If a patient has a peripheral nerve injury that severs an axon but leaves the soma intact, regeneration of the axon is possible. However, if the injury destroys the soma, the entire neuron dies and cannot be replaced, leading to permanent functional loss.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of basic neuroanatomy.
Identify the key terms in the question: 'cell body' and 'neuron'.
Recall the three main parts of a neuron: cell body, dendrites, and axon.
Remember the alternative scientific name for the cell body.
Evaluate the options: 'Dendrite' and 'Axon' are processes extending from the cell body, not the body itself. 'Soma' is the correct term. Therefore, 'None of these' is incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Anatomy Grays 43e Vol 1 Part 1 p. 73-75

E6 Physiology Essentials Sembulingam 10e Part 3 p. 34-36

Practise the full DHS 2018 shift 1st

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