A Three-Generation Pedigree Is Constructed Around the Designated "Index" Patient

question 16

Multiple Choice

A three-generation pedigree is constructed around the designated "index" patient. Based on this knowledge, which explanation of the term proband is the most accurate?

• A) The "index" patient has the disorder of interest.
• B) One parent of the "index" patient has the disorder of interest.
• C) The "index" patient does not have the disorder of interest.
• D) Siblings of the "index" patient do not have the disorder of interest.

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Definitions:

Autonomic Nervous System

The part of the nervous system responsible for controlling bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes.

Nerve Fibers

Extended fibers of neurons that conduct electrical signals across the body.

Axons

Long, threadlike parts of a nerve cell along which impulses are conducted from the cell body to other cells.

Dendrites

The branched projections from the neuron's cell body that receive neural impulses from other neurons and transmit them towards the cell body.