American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Which physiological change is associated with bladder function in aging?

Increased extensibility
Decreased collagen in the bladder wall
Less responsiveness to hormonal changes
Improved bladder capacity

The correct answer is: Less responsiveness to hormonal changes

As individuals age, one of the notable physiological changes that affects bladder function is a decreased responsiveness to hormonal changes. This can impact the regulation of the urinary system, including the functioning of the detrusor muscle, which is responsible for bladder contractions. The normalization of urine production and the sensation of bladder fullness can be altered due to hormonal fluctuations, leading to challenges such as increased frequency of urination and urgency. In aging patients, the bladder may not respond as effectively to hormones that help regulate the storage and release of urine, contributing to changes in bladder capacity and function. While other factors such as increased collagen production and reduced elasticity may also occur in bladder tissues, the lack of responsiveness to hormonal changes is a prominent aspect of the aging process that directly influences bladder management and related symptoms. Therefore, understanding this physiological alteration is critical in addressing urinary issues commonly faced by the elderly.