Nerves connected to brain
message to the
heat sensors in the
spinal cord
skin of the hand
arm muscle
the effector
message from
the spinal cord
heat from the
flame
transverse section
through the
spinal cord
FIG 9.4.4 Reflex arc
Explain how the nervous system will respond in the above scenario.
[Use the RED ARROWS to assist in your response)

Mr. j, age 42, is a construction worker in las vegas. he recently noticed that a mole on his face seemed to be getting larger and darker. at first he did not worry because he was in the sun a lot and assumed the change may have been caused by sunburn. after a month, not only was the mole larger and darker, but it appeared to be “bumpy.” his doctor diagnosed a malignant melanoma skin cancer following biopsy of the nevus. mr. j reports pain in his right shin that does not go away when he puts his feet up or sleeps. discussion questions 1. relate mr. j’s skin changes to the warning signs for malignant melanoma. (see malignant melanoma.) 2. discuss the normal progression of this malignancy. what is the significance of the bone pain that mr. j is experiencing? (see malignant melanoma.) 3. discuss the treatment available for this patient and the prognosis for recovery. (see malignant melanoma.)