U1.vii · Endocrine Physiology

This Viva tested knowledge of on the physiology of calcium and the pharmacology of calcium channel antagonists. Although some candidates performed well, there was generally a lack of sufficient knowledge of the control of calcium.

This focused upon knowledge of aspects of respiratory physiology, measurement and oxygen delivery. Candidates were shown a chest X-ray, and told it represented complete collapse of the left lung. The opening question was what processes might contribute to hypoxia in that patient. It viva then went on to examine knowledge of shunt, dead space and measurement of oxygen. Overall most candidates performed well, with overall the depth of knowledge of the physiological mechanisms of hypoxia being the area of weakness.

This viva will examine knowledge of Calcium. Consider the normal levels of calcium in blood and factors which affect it. Subsequent discussion focused on calcium physiology and pharmacology of verapamil.

This Viva will test your knowledge about intracranial pressure and cerebral blood flow. Q 1. What are the determinants of intracranial pressure? This viva explored basic and highly relevant area of CNS physiology. Candidates are expected to draw, interpret and explain the relationship between intracranial pressure, cerebral blood flow and variety of chemical and physiologic control mechanisms as they may be illustrated within graphs. Basic pharmacologic pharmacologic principles of ICP control were also discussed. Lack of knowledge depth and conceptual understanding were areas that need further attention.