Temperature regulation: practice question

A Physiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Physiology · Temperature regulation

Sample item

During fever caused by bacterial pyrogens, what produces the initial sensation of chills?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Hypothalamic set-point elevation

Pyrogen-induced prostaglandin E2 raises the hypothalamic temperature set point. Existing body temperature is then perceived as too low, causing vasoconstriction and shivering until the new set point is reached.

Option by option

  • A. Hypothalamic set-point elevation (correct)

    Correct. A raised set point makes normal temperature feel cold.

  • B. Immediate peripheral vasodilation

    Vasodilation occurs when heat is being lost, such as after the fever breaks.

  • C. Reduced metabolic heat production

    Shivering increases rather than reduces heat production.

  • D. Sweat-gland activation

    Sweating is suppressed during the chill phase.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Physiology question

What is the answer to this Physiology question?

The best answer is A, Hypothalamic set-point elevation. Pyrogen-induced prostaglandin E2 raises the hypothalamic temperature set point.

Why is "Immediate peripheral vasodilation" not the answer?

Vasodilation occurs when heat is being lost, such as after the fever breaks.

Why is "Reduced metabolic heat production" not the answer?

Shivering increases rather than reduces heat production.

Why is "Sweat-gland activation" not the answer?

Sweating is suppressed during the chill phase.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Temperature regulation in Physiology. Existing body temperature is then perceived as too low, causing vasoconstriction and shivering until the new set point is reached.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Temperature regulation?

For each system, sketch the key graph (pressure–volume loop, oxygen dissociation curve, nephron handling) and explain it aloud. Then use the flashcards and the other Physiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.