Cardiac physiology: pressure-volume loop: 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 · Cardiac physiology: pressure-volume loop

Sample item

Which change shifts the end-systolic pressure-volume relation upward and leftward?

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

The answer and the reasoning

B. Increased contractility

Increased contractility allows greater pressure generation and lower end-systolic volume, shifting the ESPVR upward and leftward. Preload primarily changes end-diastolic volume.

Option by option

  • A. Increased preload only

    Preload increases filling but does not change the ESPVR slope.

  • B. Increased contractility (correct)

    Correct. Stronger contraction leaves less blood at end systole.

  • C. Increased afterload only

    Afterload increases end-systolic volume acutely.

  • D. Reduced venous return

    Reduced venous return lowers preload and stroke volume.

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 B, Increased contractility. Increased contractility allows greater pressure generation and lower end-systolic volume, shifting the ESPVR upward and leftward.

Why is "Increased preload only" not the answer?

Preload increases filling but does not change the ESPVR slope.

Why is "Increased afterload only" not the answer?

Afterload increases end-systolic volume acutely.

Why is "Reduced venous return" not the answer?

Reduced venous return lowers preload and stroke volume.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Cardiac physiology: pressure-volume loop in Physiology. Preload primarily changes end-diastolic volume.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as a multi-step question: it asks you to combine more than one idea. 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 Cardiac physiology: pressure-volume loop?

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.