What role do mucous membranes play in host defense?

A 60-year-old male with a history of chronic lower back pain presents with worsening symptoms. He reports numbness and weakness in both legs. MRI reveals multiple herniated discs in the lumbar spine.  What is the most likely explanation for his worsening symptoms? 

Which cell type in the bone marrow provides the necessary support and growth factors for hematopoietic stem cells? 

Which hallmark of cancer involves the continuous activation of growth signals that promote cell division? 

What is a common outcome of chronic inflammation? 

Which of the following can activate the complement system? 

What are the typical characteristics of red blood cells in iron-deficiency anemia? 

What is the first response of a blood vessel when it is damaged? 

How does the factor V Leiden mutation affect clotting? 

A patient with autoimmune hemolytic anemia has antibodies that target their own red blood cells. What type of hypersensitivity reaction is this?