Cochlear anatomy: practice question

A ENT 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.

Try it

ENT · Cochlear anatomy

Sample item

Which structure on the lateral wall of the cochlear duct secretes potassium-rich endolymph and maintains the positive endocochlear potential of about 80 mV?

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

The answer and the reasoning

D. Stria vascularis

This vascular epithelium pumps potassium into scala media, creating the potential that drives hair cell transduction. Its dysfunction causes sensorineural hearing loss.

Option by option

  • A. Tectorial membrane

    The tectorial membrane overlies hair cell stereocilia.

  • B. Basilar membrane

    The basilar membrane supports the organ of Corti and carries the travelling wave.

  • C. Reissner's membrane

    Reissner's membrane separates scala media from scala vestibuli.

  • D. Stria vascularis (correct)

    Correct. This vascular strip generates endolymph and the potential.

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.

More ENT questions

Questions about this ENT question

What is the answer to this ENT question?

The best answer is D, Stria vascularis. This vascular epithelium pumps potassium into scala media, creating the potential that drives hair cell transduction.

Why is "Tectorial membrane" not the answer?

The tectorial membrane overlies hair cell stereocilia.

Why is "Basilar membrane" not the answer?

The basilar membrane supports the organ of Corti and carries the travelling wave.

Why is "Reissner's membrane" not the answer?

Reissner's membrane separates scala media from scala vestibuli.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Cochlear anatomy in ENT. Its dysfunction causes sensorineural hearing loss.

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 Cochlear anatomy?

Learn tuning fork results and audiogram patterns by sketching them. Then use the flashcards and the other ENT 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.