In Shingles, the Virus Lies Within the Cell Bodies of a Dorsal

question 66

Multiple Choice

In shingles, the virus lies within the cell bodies of a dorsal root (sensory) ganglion. When the virus is active, it causes painful blisters along a strip of skin on the trunk. Knowing your anatomy, why does it only affect a thin strip of skin?

• A) The virus follows the dermatome associated with the spinal nerve connected to the affected dorsal root ganglion.
• B) The virus only affects the skin of the back near the affected dorsal root ganglion.
• C) The virus follows the lines of cleavage of the skin.
• D) The virus only travels vertically along the trunk due to gravity.

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Definitions:

Dendrites

Branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Neurological Disorder

A disorder affecting the nervous system, encompassing a broad range of conditions that affect brain function or structure.

Active Part

Components or elements of a system that are directly involved in its primary function or action.

Neurons

Specialized neurons in the nervous system that convey information to other neurons, muscle cells, or glands mostly via electrical and chemical signals.