Medical Terminology Practice Test: Essential Healthcare Terms

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Medical Terminology Practice Test: Essential Healthcare Terms - Quiz

Are you eager to enhance your grasp of medical terminology? Our Medical Terminology Practice Test is designed to challenge your understanding of the intricate language used in healthcare. Medical terminology forms the foundation for effective communication in the medical field, unlocking insights into anatomy, conditions, and treatments.

This medical terminology quiz covers a wide range of topics. Each medical terminology test question is crafted to strengthen your knowledge and boost your confidence in understanding medical language. Take this detailed medical terminology MCQ quiz to assess your skills and refine your expertise. Share this test with peers to foster collaborative learning Read moreand a deeper appreciation of medical communication. Start now and take a step closer to mastering the language of medicine!

Ready to elevate your medical knowledge? After mastering Medical Terminology, test your broader healthcare expertise with our engaging Medical Trivia MCQ quiz! Let the learning journey continue!


Medical Terminology Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    What does hemorrhage mean?

    • A.

      Vomiting blood due to a stomach ulcer

    • B.

      The loss of blood from damaged blood vessels

    • C.

      Blood in the stool

    • D.

      Blood in the urine

    Correct Answer
    B. The loss of blood from damaged blood vessels
    Explanation
    Hemorrhage refers to the loss of blood from damaged blood vessels. It can occur internally or externally and may result from injuries, trauma, or various medical conditions. In the context of medical terminology, hemorrhage typically implies significant and often uncontrolled bleeding. This can manifest externally, such as from a wound, or internally, involving organs or tissues. Hemorrhages can vary in severity, and prompt medical attention is crucial to address the underlying cause and manage the bleeding to prevent complications. The term does not specifically refer to vomiting blood due to a stomach ulcer, blood in the stool, or blood in the urine, although those conditions may involve bleeding.

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  • 2. 

    What is hepatitis?

    • A.

      Kidney stones

    • B.

      Scarring of the liver

    • C.

      Inflammation of the liver

    • D.

      Chronic liver disease

    Correct Answer
    C. Inflammation of the liver
    Explanation
    Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. It can have various causes, including viral infections, alcohol consumption, autoimmune diseases, or exposure to certain toxins. Inflammation of the liver can lead to liver damage and may contribute to conditions such as scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) or chronic liver disease. It is essential to identify the underlying cause of hepatitis for proper treatment and management. Kidney stones are unrelated to hepatitis; they involve the formation of solid particles in the kidneys.

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  • 3. 

    What is pathology?

    • A.

      The study of the human brain

    • B.

      The study of bones

    • C.

      The study of blood

    • D.

      The study of disease

    Correct Answer
    D. The study of disease
    Explanation
    Pathology is the study of disease. It involves the examination and analysis of bodily tissues and fluids to diagnose and understand the nature and causes of diseases. Pathologists study the changes that occur in cells, tissues, and organs as a result of disease, and they play a crucial role in identifying and treating various medical conditions. By studying the patterns and characteristics of diseases, pathologists contribute to the development of effective treatments and prevention strategies.

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  • 4. 

    What is hemiplegia?

    • A.

      Paralysis of the legs

    • B.

      Paralysis of one side of the body

    • C.

      Left-sided weakness

    • D.

      Paralysis of the arms

    Correct Answer
    B. Paralysis of one side of the body
    Explanation
    Hemiplegia refers to paralysis of one side of the body. It can affect either the right or left side and typically involves the arms and legs on the same side. Hemiplegia is often caused by damage to the motor cortex of the brain or the nerves connecting the brain to the affected side of the body. This condition can result from various factors such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or certain neurological disorders. It differs from monoplegia (paralysis of one limb), paraplegia (paralysis of both lower limbs), and quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs).

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  • 5. 

    What is tachycardia?

    • A.

      Rapid heart rate

    • B.

      Slow heart rate

    • C.

      Irregular heart rate

    • D.

      Heart murmur

    Correct Answer
    A. Rapid heart rate
    Explanation
    Tachycardia is a rapid heart rate. It is a condition where the heart beats faster than the normal resting rate. Tachycardia can be caused by various factors, including stress, fever, anemia, heart-related issues, or other medical conditions. It is characterized by a heart rate that exceeds the typical range for a specific age group or health condition. Tachycardia stands in contrast to bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate. Irregular heart rate and heart murmur are separate cardiac conditions with distinct characteristics.

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  • 6. 

    What is osteogenic?

    • A.

      Originating in the muscle

    • B.

      Bone spur

    • C.

      Originating in the bone

    • D.

      Fracture of a bone

    Correct Answer
    C. Originating in the bone
    Explanation
    Osteogenic means originating in the bone. The term is commonly used in the context of cells or processes associated with bone formation or development. For example, osteogenic cells are those involved in the production of bone tissue. The term is derived from the Greek words "osteon," meaning bone, and "genesis," meaning origin or creation. It is used in medical and anatomical contexts to describe things related to bones or bone formation.

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  • 7. 

    What is dysphagia?

    • A.

      Swelling of the vocal cords

    • B.

      Difficulty swallowing

    • C.

      Difficulty in breathing

    • D.

      Impaired speech

    Correct Answer
    B. Difficulty swallowing
    Explanation
    Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing. It refers to the sensation of difficulty or discomfort while swallowing food, liquids, or saliva. Dysphagia can result from various causes, including neurological conditions, muscular disorders, or structural abnormalities in the throat or esophagus. It is distinct from swelling of the vocal cords, difficulty in breathing, or impaired speech, although these conditions may be associated with or contribute to dysphagia in certain cases.

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  • 8. 

    What is aphasia?

    • A.

      Ability to speak another language

    • B.

      The inability to produce saliva

    • C.

      Inability to speak or understand speech

    • D.

      Swallowing problem

    Correct Answer
    C. Inability to speak or understand speech
    Explanation
    The term "aphasia" refers to a condition characterized by a partial or total loss of the ability to communicate verbally or in writing. It is typically caused by damage to the language centers of the brain, often resulting from a stroke or head injury. Speech impairment, which is the correct answer, is a symptom commonly associated with aphasia. It can manifest as difficulty in finding the right words, forming coherent sentences, or pronouncing words correctly. Other symptoms of aphasia may include difficulty understanding language, reading, or writing.

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  • 9. 

    What is encephalitis?

    • A.

      Inflammation of the spinal chord

    • B.

      Inflammation of the brain

    • C.

      Inflammation of the external ear

    • D.

      Inflammation within the ear

    Correct Answer
    B. Inflammation of the brain
    Explanation
    Encephalitis is a condition characterized by inflammation within the head, specifically the brain. This inflammation can be caused by viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus or the West Nile virus. It can also be caused by bacterial infections or autoimmune disorders. Symptoms of encephalitis include fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. Treatment usually involves antiviral or antibiotic medications, depending on the cause of the inflammation, as well as supportive care to manage symptoms.

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  • 10. 

    What is myalgia?

    • A.

      Heart weakness

    • B.

      Heart pain

    • C.

      Muscle weakness

    • D.

      Muscle pain

    Correct Answer
    D. Muscle pain
    Explanation
    The term "myalgia" refers to muscle pain, which is the correct answer given in the options. It is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors such as muscle strain, overuse, or injury. Myalgia can also be a symptom of certain medical conditions like viral infections or autoimmune disorders. Therefore, muscle pain is the appropriate choice among the given options as it accurately describes the meaning of myalgia.

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  • 11. 

    What is neuropathy?

    • A.

      Nerve disorder

    • B.

      Leg disorder

    • C.

      Hand disorder

    • D.

      Brain disorder

    Correct Answer
    A. Nerve disorder
    Explanation
    Neuropathy is a nerve disorder. It involves damage or dysfunction of the nerves, which can lead to various symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. Neuropathy can result from a variety of causes, including diabetes, infections, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to certain medications or toxins. It is important to identify the underlying cause of neuropathy for proper diagnosis and management. The term does not specifically refer to disorders of the legs, hands, or brain, although neuropathy can affect nerves throughout the body. 

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  • 12. 

    What is nephrectomy?

    • A.

      Surgical removal of a nerve

    • B.

      Surgical repair of the neck

    • C.

      Surgical removal of a kidney

    • D.

      Surgical repair of a kidney

    Correct Answer
    C. Surgical removal of a kidney
    Explanation
    Nephrectomy refers to the surgical removal of a kidney. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as kidney cancer, severe kidney damage, or kidney donation. During a nephrectomy, the entire kidney is removed from the body, either through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques. This helps to alleviate symptoms, improve kidney function, or prevent the spread of cancer. It is important to note that nephrectomy is a major surgical procedure and should only be performed when necessary and under the guidance of a medical professional.

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  • 13. 

    What is quadriplegia?

    • A.

      Paralysis of the lower extremities

    • B.

      Paralysis of 4 quadrants of the body, excluding the head

    • C.

      Paralysis of the upper extremities

    • D.

      Weakness of 4 quadrants of the body

    Correct Answer
    B. Paralysis of 4 quadrants of the body, excluding the head
    Explanation
    Quadriplegia refers to paralysis of the four limbs and typically includes the trunk as well, affecting all four extremities and, in some cases, parts of the torso. It is often associated with spinal cord injuries or certain neurological conditions that impact the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord. Quadriplegia is also known as tetraplegia. The term accurately describes the extent of paralysis, encompassing both the upper and lower extremities, and distinguishes it from other terms like paraplegia (paralysis of the lower extremities).

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  • 14. 

    What is paraparesis?

    • A.

      Partial paralysis of the lower extremities

    • B.

      Paralysis of the lower extremities

    • C.

      Paralysis of one side of the body

    • D.

      Weakness of one side of the body

    Correct Answer
    A. Partial paralysis of the lower extremities
    Explanation
    Paraparesis refers to weakness or partial paralysis of the lower extremities. It typically involves a significant reduction in strength and motor function in the legs but may not result in complete paralysis. This term distinguishes itself from paraplegia, which denotes complete paralysis of the lower extremities. Paraparesis can be caused by various factors, including neurological conditions, spinal cord injuries, or other medical issues affecting the motor function of the lower limbs.

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  • 15. 

    What is atherosclerosis?

    • A.

      Hardening of the veins

    • B.

      Swelling within the head

    • C.

      Inflammation of the joints

    • D.

      Hardening of the arteries

    Correct Answer
    D. Hardening of the arteries
    Explanation
    Atherosclerosis is the hardening of the arteries. It is a condition in which the walls of arteries become thickened and narrowed due to the accumulation of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances. This process can restrict blood flow and, over time, may lead to various cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes. Atherosclerosis primarily affects arteries, not veins. The term distinguishes itself from conditions related to swelling within the head or inflammation of the joints, which are unrelated to the specific process of arterial hardening seen in atherosclerosis.

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  • 16. 

    What is spondylosis?

    • A.

      A degenerative condition of the spine

    • B.

      A nerve disorder

    • C.

      Curving of the spine

    • D.

      Narrowing of the vertebral column

    Correct Answer
    A. A degenerative condition of the spine
    Explanation
    Spondylosis refers to a degenerative condition of the spine. It involves the wear and tear of the spinal discs and facet joints, often associated with aging. This condition can result in symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility in the affected area of the spine. Spondylosis is not a nerve disorder, curving of the spine (scoliosis), or narrowing of the vertebral column (spinal stenosis), although these terms may be associated with or coexist with spondylosis in some cases.

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  • 17. 

    What is apnea?

    • A.

      Rapid breathing

    • B.

      A speech disorder

    • C.

      Temporary suspension of breathing

    • D.

      Inability to speak

    Correct Answer
    C. Temporary suspension of breathing
    Explanation
    Apnea refers to the suspension or temporary pause in breathing. This condition is characterized by the cessation of airflow in the respiratory system, leading to a lack of oxygen supply to the body. It can occur during sleep (known as sleep apnea) or as a result of certain medical conditions. The other options, such as breathing, speech disorder, and inability to speak, do not accurately describe the meaning of apnea.

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  • 18. 

    What is anosmia?

    • A.

      Loss of vision

    • B.

      Loss of taste

    • C.

      Loss of hearing

    • D.

      Loss of smell

    Correct Answer
    D. Loss of smell
    Explanation
    Anosmia refers to the loss of the sense of smell. This condition can be temporary or permanent and can result from various causes, including respiratory infections, head trauma, exposure to toxic chemicals, or neurological disorders. Anosmia can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting their ability to taste foods and detect hazards like smoke or gas leaks. Diagnosis often involves a medical history review and olfactory tests. While some cases may resolve on their own, others might require treatment of the underlying cause. Recognizing anosmia is important for addressing potential health risks and improving patient care.

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  • 19. 

    What is cardiomegaly?

    • A.

      Heart attack

    • B.

      Heart disease

    • C.

      Originating in the heart

    • D.

      Enlarged heart

    Correct Answer
    D. Enlarged heart
    Explanation
    The term "cardiomegaly" refers to an enlarged heart. It can be caused by various factors, including heart disease or a heart attack. Therefore, "enlarged heart" is the correct answer as it accurately describes the condition of cardiomegaly.

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  • 20. 

    What are intercostal muscles?

    • A.

      Muscles between the spine

    • B.

      Muscles between the rib bones

    • C.

      Muscles in the back

    • D.

      Muscles inside the stomach

    Correct Answer
    B. Muscles between the rib bones
    Explanation
    The intercostal muscles are located between the ribs. They play a crucial role in the process of breathing by aiding in the expansion and contraction of the ribcage. These muscles help in elevating the ribs during inhalation and lowering them during exhalation, allowing for the expansion and compression of the chest cavity. By being situated between the ribs, the intercostal muscles are able to facilitate these movements and contribute to the overall mechanics of breathing.

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  • 21. 

    What is the largest organ in the human body?

    • A.

      Skin

    • B.

      Liver

    • C.

      Brain

    • D.

      Heart

    Correct Answer
    A. Skin
    Explanation
    The skin is the largest organ, weighing approximately 8 pounds and covering a surface area of about 20 square feet in adults. It has three main layers: the epidermis (outer protective layer), the dermis (containing blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles), and the hypodermis (a layer of fat that insulates and cushions the body). It performs vital functions like protection from external elements, regulation of body temperature through sweating and shivering, sensation through nerve endings, and vitamin D synthesis when exposed to sunlight.

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  • 22. 

    What is the medical term for high blood pressure?

    • A.

      Hypotension

    • B.

      Hypertension

    • C.

      Hyperglycemia

    • D.

      Hypoglycemia

    Correct Answer
    B. Hypertension
    Explanation
    Hypertension is when the blood pressure in your arteries is consistently elevated. It's often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no noticeable symptoms. High blood pressure increases the risk of serious health problems like heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. It is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) with two numbers: systolic (pressure when the heart beats) and diastolic (pressure when the heart rests).

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  • 23. 

    Which vitamin is primarily produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight?

    • A.

      Vitamin A

    • B.

      Vitamin B

    • C.

      Vitamin C

    • D.

      Vitamin D

    Correct Answer
    D. Vitamin D
    Explanation
    When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight, it triggers a chemical reaction that produces vitamin D3. This form of vitamin D is then processed by the liver and kidneys to become active vitamin D, also known as calcitriol. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from food, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in immune function and cell growth.

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  • 24. 

    What is the name of the process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment?

    • A.

      Hemostasis

    • B.

      Osmosis

    • C.

      Metabolism

    • D.

      Homeostasis

    Correct Answer
    D. Homeostasis
    Explanation
    Homeostasis is a dynamic process of self-regulation that allows the body to function optimally despite constant internal and external changes. It involves intricate feedback mechanisms that monitor and adjust various parameters like body temperature, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, fluid balance, and blood pH. This ensures that cells have a stable environment to operate in. Examples of homeostatic mechanisms include sweating to cool down, shivering to warm up, and the release of insulin to lower blood sugar.

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  • 25. 

    What part of the brain is responsible for regulating balance and coordination?

    • A.

      Cerebrum

    • B.

      Cerebellum

    • C.

      Brainstem

    • D.

      Hypothalamus

    Correct Answer
    B. Cerebellum
    Explanation
    The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, beneath the cerebrum. It receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain and then regulates motor movements. The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements such as posture, balance, coordination, and speech, resulting in smooth and balanced 1 muscular activity.

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  • 26. 

    What is the most common blood type in humans?

    • A.

      A+

    • B.

      B+

    • C.

      AB+

    • D.

      O+

    Correct Answer
    D. O+
    Explanation
    Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells. O+ is the most common blood type, meaning it has neither A nor B antigens but does have the Rh factor. This makes O+ blood highly sought after for transfusions, as it can be given to people with A+, B+, AB+, and O+ blood types.

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  • 27. 

    What is the term for a doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer?

    • A.

      Oncologist

    • B.

      Cardiologist

    • C.

      Neurologist

    • D.

      Dermatologist

    Correct Answer
    A. Oncologist
    Explanation
    An oncologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. Oncologists use various methods to treat cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They also provide supportive care to help patients manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment. There are different types of oncologists, such as medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, each with specific expertise in cancer treatment.

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  • 28. 

    What is the name of the condition characterized by the inability to produce insulin?

    • A.

      Diabetes mellitus

    • B.

      Hypothyroidism

    • C.

      Hyperthyroidism

    • D.

      Cushing's syndrome

    Correct Answer
    A. Diabetes mellitus
    Explanation
    Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Type 1 diabetes results from the body's immune system attacking and destroying the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body doesn't use insulin properly, and relative insulin deficiency, where the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to overcome the resistance. Both types lead to high blood sugar, which can cause damage to various organs over time.

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  • 29. 

    Which organ is primarily responsible for detoxifying chemicals and metabolizing drugs?

    • A.

      Liver

    • B.

      Kidney

    • C.

      Pancreas

    • D.

      Spleen

    Correct Answer
    A. Liver
    Explanation
    The liver is a vital organ located in the upper right abdomen. It plays a crucial role in metabolism, digestion, detoxification, and immunity. The liver filters blood from the digestive tract, removing toxins and processing nutrients. It produces bile, which helps in fat digestion. It also metabolizes drugs and alcohol, breaking them down into less harmful substances. Additionally, the liver stores glycogen (a form of sugar) and releases it into the bloodstream when needed for energy.

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  • 30. 

    What is the medical term for a heart attack?

    • A.

      Angina pectoris

    • B.

      Cardiac arrest

    • C.

      Stroke

    • D.

      Myocardial infarction

    Correct Answer
    D. Myocardial infarction
    Explanation
    Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, happens when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle, leading to damage or death of the affected tissue. 2 Symptoms of a heart attack can include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, 3 and cold sweats, nausea, or lightheadedness.

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  • 31. 

    What is the name of the bone that protects the brain?

    • A.

      Skull

    • B.

      Femur

    • C.

      Tibia

    • D.

      Humerus

    Correct Answer
    A. Skull
    Explanation
    The skull is a complex bony structure that forms the head in vertebrates. It supports the structures of the face and provides a protective cavity for the brain. The skull is composed 4 of two parts: the cranium and the mandible. 5 The cranium is the bony case that encloses the brain and consists of eight bones. The mandible is the lower jawbone.

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  • 32. 

    What is the primary function of red blood cells?

    • A.

      Fight infection

    • B.

      Clot blood

    • C.

      Transport oxygen

    • D.

      Produce antibodies

    Correct Answer
    C. Transport oxygen
    Explanation
    Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are the most common type of blood cell. They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the bloodstream for about 120 days. Their primary function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. This is achieved through 6 hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen.

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  • 33. 

    What is the term for the inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord?

    • A.

      Encephalitis

    • B.

      Myelitis

    • C.

      Meningitis

    • D.

      Cerebritis

    Correct Answer
    C. Meningitis
    Explanation
    Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges, the three membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms of meningitis can include headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, and sensitivity to light. Bacterial meningitis is a serious medical emergency and can lead to brain damage, hearing loss, or even death if not treated promptly.

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  • 34. 

    What is the name of the hormone that regulates metabolism?

    • A.

      Thyroid hormone

    • B.

      Insulin

    • C.

      Growth hormone

    • D.

      Adrenaline

    Correct Answer
    A. Thyroid hormone
    Explanation
    Thyroid hormone, produced by the thyroid gland in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. It affects many bodily functions, including heart rate, body temperature, and how quickly your body uses energy. The two main types of thyroid hormone are T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). An imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

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  • 35. 

    What is the most common type of cancer in men?

    • A.

      Lung cancer

    • B.

      Colon cancer

    • C.

      Skin cancer

    • D.

      Prostate cancer

    Correct Answer
    D. Prostate cancer
    Explanation
    Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, after skin cancer. It occurs in the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped gland that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate 7 cancer often grows slowly and may not cause significant symptoms in its early stages. However, advanced prostate cancer can spread to other parts of the body, particularly the bones and lymph nodes.

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  • 36. 

    What is the medical term for the fear of spiders?

    • A.

      Arachnophobia

    • B.

      Claustrophobia

    • C.

      Acrophobia

    • D.

      Agoraphobia

    Correct Answer
    A. ArachnopHobia
    Explanation
    Arachnophobia is a specific phobia, which is an intense and irrational fear of something that poses little or no actual danger. People with arachnophobia experience extreme anxiety and fear at the sight or thought of spiders. This can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding places where spiders might be present.

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  • 37. 

    What is the name of the condition where the body cannot absorb gluten?

    • A.

      Crohn's disease

    • B.

      Ulcerative colitis

    • C.

      Celiac disease

    • D.

      Irritable bowel syndrome

    Correct Answer
    C. Celiac disease
    Explanation
    Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that triggers an immune response when gluten is consumed. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with celiac disease, gluten damages the small intestine, specifically the villi, which are small finger-like projections that absorb nutrients. This damage can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, causing various symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss.

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  • 38. 

    What is the primary function of the kidneys?

    • A.

      Produce hormones

    • B.

      Digest food

    • C.

      Filter waste from the blood

    • D.

      Store urine

    Correct Answer
    C. Filter waste from the blood
    Explanation
    The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, below the ribs. They are essential for maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. The kidneys filter waste products, excess water, and other impurities from the blood. These waste products are excreted from the body in the form of urine. The kidneys also regulate blood pressure, produce red blood cells, and activate vitamin D.

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  • 39. 

    What is the term for a surgical procedure to remove the appendix?

    • A.

      Colectomy

    • B.

      Gastrectomy

    • C.

      Hysterectomy

    • D.

      Appendectomy

    Correct Answer
    D. Appendectomy
    Explanation
    An appendectomy is a common surgical procedure that involves the removal of the appendix. The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. Appendectomy is typically performed in cases of appendicitis, which is the inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. If left untreated, it can lead to a ruptured appendix, which is a serious medical emergency.

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  • 40. 

    What is the name of the disease caused by the deficiency of vitamin C?

    • A.

      Scurvy

    • B.

      Rickets

    • C.

      Beriberi

    • D.

      Pellagra

    Correct Answer
    A. Scurvy
    Explanation
    Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that helps to maintain healthy tissues, including skin, bones, blood vessels, and gums. Symptoms of scurvy can include fatigue, weakness, joint pain, bleeding gums, and slow wound healing. In severe cases, scurvy can be fatal.

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  • 41. 

    What is the medical term for a stroke?

    • A.

      Cerebrovascular accident

    • B.

      Transient ischemic attack

    • C.

      Myocardial infarction

    • D.

      Pulmonary embolism

    Correct Answer
    A. Cerebrovascular accident
    Explanation
    A cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This can happen due to a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). When blood flow is disrupted, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, causing them to die. This can lead to various symptoms, including weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, vision problems, and dizziness.

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  • 42. 

    What is the name of the test used to measure blood sugar levels?

    • A.

      Hemoglobin A1c test

    • B.

      Lipid panel

    • C.

      Complete blood count

    • D.

      Blood glucose test

    Correct Answer
    D. Blood glucose test
    Explanation
    A blood glucose test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It's a common test used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. There are different types of blood glucose tests, including fasting blood glucose, random blood glucose, and oral glucose tolerance test.

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  • 43. 

    What is the term for the study of the structure and function of the nervous system?

    • A.

      Cardiology

    • B.

      Nephrology

    • C.

      Neurology

    • D.

      Endocrinology

    Correct Answer
    C. Neurology
    Explanation
    Neurology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and disorders of the nervous system. The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurologists treat a wide range of conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's 8 disease, and headaches.

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  • 44. 

    What is the name of the condition characterized by the loss of bone density?

    • A.

      Osteoarthritis

    • B.

      Rheumatoid arthritis

    • C.

      Gout

    • D.

      Osteoporosis

    Correct Answer
    D. Osteoporosis
    Explanation
    Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. It occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the removal of old bone. This leads to a decrease in bone density and quality, making bones more susceptible to breaking. Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because it usually has no symptoms until a fracture occurs.

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  • 45. 

    What is the medical term for a broken bone?

    • A.

      Fracture

    • B.

      Sprain

    • C.

      Strain

    • D.

      Dislocation

    Correct Answer
    A. Fracture
    Explanation
    A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone. Fractures can be caused by various factors, including trauma, overuse, and osteoporosis. There are different types of fractures, such as closed fractures (where the skin is not broken), open fractures (where the bone protrudes through the skin), and stress fractures (tiny cracks in the bone).

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  • 46. 

    What is the name of the virus that causes AIDS?

    • A.

      HPV

    • B.

      HSV

    • C.

      HIV

    • D.

      HBV

    Correct Answer
    C. HIV
    Explanation
    Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4+ T cells, which help fight off infections. Over time, HIV can weaken the immune system to the point where it can no longer fight off opportunistic infections, leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

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  • 47. 

    What is the term for the surgical removal of the gallbladder?

    • A.

      Colectomy

    • B.

      Gastrectomy

    • C.

      Cholecystectomy

    • D.

      Hysterectomy

    Correct Answer
    C. Cholecystectomy
    Explanation
    A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ that stores bile. This is often done to treat gallstones or other gallbladder diseases.

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  • 48. 

    What is the name of the condition characterized by excessive thirst?

    • A.

      Polydipsia

    • B.

      Polyphagia

    • C.

      Polyuria

    • D.

      Polycythemia

    Correct Answer
    A. Polydipsia
    Explanation
    Polydipsia is the term for excessive thirst and is often a symptom of underlying medical conditions like diabetes, where high blood sugar levels lead to increased urination and subsequent dehydration, triggering excessive thirst.

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  • 49. 

    What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?

    • A.

      Fighting infection

    • B.

      Transporting oxygen

    • C.

      Producing antibodies

    • D.

      Blood clotting

    Correct Answer
    D. Blood clotting
    Explanation
    Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, irregular-shaped cells in the blood that play a crucial role in blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets gather at the site of injury, stick together, and form a plug to stop the bleeding.

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  • 50. 

    What is the medical term for inflammation of the lungs?

    • A.

      Pneumonia

    • B.

      Bronchitis

    • C.

      Asthma

    • D.

      Emphysema

    Correct Answer
    A. Pneumonia
    Explanation
    Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. 1

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Amanda Nwachukwu |Pharm(D) |
Clinical Pharmacist
Amanda Nwachukwu, holding a Doctorate in Pharmacy from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, adeptly simplifies complex medical concepts into accessible content. With clinical proficiency, she ensures optimal patient care, while her adept medical writing skills facilitate comprehension and accessibility of healthcare information.

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  • Nov 21, 2024
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    Expert Reviewed by
    Amanda Nwachukwu
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