Respiratory System Assessment Quiz
Welcome to the Respiratory System Assessment Quiz! This quiz is designed to evaluate your knowledge and understanding of the respiratory system, one of the vital systems in the human body responsible for gas exchange and oxygen transport. Explore questions covering topics such as respiratory anatomy, lung function, gas exchange mechanisms, respiratory diseases, and the role of the respiratory system in maintaining homeostasis. From the structure of the airways to the physiology of breathing, this quiz will test your understanding of these essential concepts. This quiz provides a comprehensive assessment of your respiratory system knowledge. Challenge yourself and Read moreassess your proficiency in this critical area of human biology. Are you ready to demonstrate your understanding of the respiratory system? Let's begin the quiz!
Respiratory System Questions and Answers
- 1.
The combining form for lungs is:
- A.
Pleur/o
- B.
Pneum/o
- C.
Pulmon/o
- D.
Pneum/o and Pulmon/o
Correct Answer
D. Pneum/o and Pulmon/oExplanation
The combining form for lungs is "Pneum/o and Pulmon/o" because both terms refer to the lungs. "Pneum/o" is derived from the Greek word "pneuma," meaning breath or air, and is commonly used in medical terminology related to the respiratory system. "Pulmon/o" is derived from the Latin word "pulmo," which also means lung. Both terms are used interchangeably to describe the lungs in medical terminology.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is the medical term for nasal discharge?
- A.
Nasorrhea
- B.
Orthopnea
- C.
Rhinorrhea
- D.
Bronchitis
Correct Answer
C. RhinorrheaExplanation
Rhinorrhea is the medical term for nasal discharge. It refers to the condition where there is an excessive production of mucus from the nose. This can be caused by various factors such as allergies, infections, or even certain medications. Rhinorrhea is commonly associated with symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. It is important to identify and treat the underlying cause of rhinorrhea to alleviate the symptoms and improve overall nasal health.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Clubbing of the fingertips is indicative of:
- A.
Skin disease
- B.
Respiratory and congenital heart disease
- C.
Bone disease
- D.
Blood disease
Correct Answer
B. Respiratory and congenital heart diseaseExplanation
Clubbing of the fingertips refers to the enlargement and rounding of the fingertips. It is often associated with respiratory and congenital heart diseases. In these conditions, there is a decrease in the oxygen levels in the blood, leading to the widening of the blood vessels and the development of clubbing. This phenomenon is believed to be a result of chronic hypoxia and can be a valuable clinical sign in diagnosing respiratory and congenital heart diseases. Skin, bone, and blood diseases are not typically associated with clubbing of the fingertips.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The normal respiratory rate is:
- A.
14-18 times/min
- B.
70-80 times/min
- C.
100-110 times/min
- D.
25-30 times/min
Correct Answer
A. 14-18 times/minExplanation
The normal respiratory rate refers to the number of breaths a person takes per minute. A respiratory rate of 14-18 times per minute is considered normal for adults. This range ensures that enough oxygen is being taken in and carbon dioxide is being expelled efficiently. A respiratory rate that is too high or too low may indicate an underlying health issue.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Barking cough and stridor are symptoms of:
- A.
Asthma
- B.
Pertussis
- C.
Croup
- D.
Emphysema
Correct Answer
C. CroupExplanation
Barking cough and stridor are symptoms commonly associated with croup. Croup is a viral infection that causes inflammation and swelling of the upper airway, particularly the larynx and trachea. This inflammation leads to the characteristic barking cough and a high-pitched sound during inhalation called stridor. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath, while pertussis is a bacterial infection causing severe coughing spells. Emphysema is a lung disease primarily caused by smoking, leading to shortness of breath and damage to the air sacs in the lungs.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The patient ____________ (presents/ presence) for annual physical examination.
Correct Answer
presentsExplanation
The correct answer is "presents." In this sentence, the word "presents" is used as a verb to indicate that the patient is appearing or showing up for their annual physical examination. The word "presence" is a noun and would not fit grammatically in this context.Rate this question:
- 7.
The obese patient was directed to ___________ (loose/ lose) 10 pounds by her next visit.
Correct Answer
loseExplanation
The correct answer is "lose". In this sentence, the word "lose" is used as a verb, meaning to reduce or shed weight. The sentence suggests that the obese patient has been instructed to lose 10 pounds before their next visit.Rate this question:
- 8.
On ____________ (auscultation/ percussion) of the lungs, I heard rhonchi and rales.
Correct Answer
auscultationExplanation
In this question, the blank space is asking for the correct term to describe the action of listening to the sounds produced by the lungs. The term for this action is "auscultation." Therefore, the correct answer is "auscultation."Rate this question:
- 9.
The patient reports having difficulty while lying down. She stated that she had to take two-pillows while sleeping. _______________ (orthopnea/ dyspnea)
Correct Answer
orthopneaExplanation
The patient's difficulty while lying down and the need for two pillows while sleeping indicates orthopnea. Orthopnea refers to the condition where a person experiences difficulty breathing while lying flat and often requires propping up with pillows to alleviate symptoms. This is different from dyspnea, which refers to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing in general, not specifically related to body position.Rate this question:
- 10.
Cartilage at the back of the mouth cavity that covers the windpipe during swallowing is the ________________ (glottis/ epiglottis)
Correct Answer
epiglottisExplanation
The cartilage at the back of the mouth cavity that covers the windpipe during swallowing is called the epiglottis. The epiglottis acts as a flap that prevents food or liquid from entering the windpipe and instead directs them towards the esophagus. It helps to protect the respiratory system and ensures that food and air travel down the correct pathways.Rate this question:
- 11.
COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Distress
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The given statement is false. COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, not Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Distress. COPD is a chronic lung disease that causes airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties. It includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The medical term for nosebleed is epistaxis.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The medical term for nosebleed is epistaxis. Epistaxis refers to the condition of bleeding from the nose, which can occur due to various reasons such as dryness, injury, or underlying medical conditions. It is a common occurrence and can range from mild to severe. Therefore, the given statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Hyper resonance is found during percussion in a patient of Pneumothorax.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Hyperresonance is a characteristic finding during percussion in a patient with pneumothorax. This is because pneumothorax is a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, causing the lung to collapse partially or completely. As a result, the affected lung becomes hyperinflated and resonates more intensely when percussed, leading to hyperresonance. Therefore, the statement "Hyperresonance is found during percussion in a patient of Pneumothorax" is true.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A 44-year-old male came to the clinic with symptoms of breathlessness and cough. The chest X-ray revealed accumulation of dust-like particles in the lungs. He works as a labourer with a construction company. The possible diagnosis would be-
- A.
Emphysema
- B.
Pneumoconiosis
- C.
Bronchitis
- D.
Lung collapse
Correct Answer
B. PneumoconiosisExplanation
Based on the given information, the most likely diagnosis for the 44-year-old male with symptoms of breathlessness and cough, who works as a labourer with a construction company, would be pneumoconiosis. Pneumoconiosis is a lung disease caused by the inhalation of dust particles, often occurring in occupations with exposure to dust, such as construction work. The accumulation of dust-like particles in the lungs seen on the chest X-ray supports this diagnosis. Emphysema is a different condition characterized by the destruction of lung tissue, bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, and lung collapse refers to the partial or complete collapse of a lung, which do not align with the given symptoms and occupational exposure.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A 35-year-old female came with pleuritic chest pain, hemoptysis and cough. Chest X-ray revealed small tubercles in the lungs. The phlegm culture showed rod-shaped bacilli as the cause of the infection. The possible diagnosis is-
- A.
Tuberculosis
- B.
Pneumonia
- C.
Anthrax
- D.
Pulmonary consolidation
Correct Answer
A. TuberculosisExplanation
The correct answer is Tuberculosis. The patient's symptoms of pleuritic chest pain, hemoptysis, and cough, along with the presence of small tubercles in the lungs on chest X-ray, are indicative of tuberculosis. Additionally, the phlegm culture showing rod-shaped bacilli further supports the diagnosis of tuberculosis, as the bacteria responsible for this disease, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, are rod-shaped. Pneumonia and pulmonary consolidation may present with similar symptoms, but the presence of tubercles and specific bacilli in the culture point towards tuberculosis as the likely diagnosis. Anthrax is less likely in this case, as its symptoms and findings differ from those described.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Air taken into the lungs-
- A.
Breath
- B.
Breathe
Correct Answer
A. BreathExplanation
The word "breath" refers to the air that is taken into the lungs during the process of breathing. It is the inhalation and exhalation of air, which is essential for sustaining life. "Breathe" is the verb form of "breath" and it describes the action of inhaling and exhaling. Therefore, "breath" is the correct answer as it specifically refers to the air taken into the lungs.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Without fever-
- A.
A febrile
- B.
Afebrile
Correct Answer
B. AfebrileExplanation
Afebrile refers to the absence of fever. It is a medical term used to describe a person who does not have an elevated body temperature. This term is commonly used in clinical settings to indicate that a patient does not have a fever.Rate this question:
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- 18.
To force blood or other fluid to flow-
- A.
Profuse
- B.
Perfuse
- C.
Oedema
- D.
Haemorrhage
Correct Answer
B. PerfuseExplanation
Perfuse means to force blood or other fluid to flow. The other options do not accurately describe this action. Profuse means to be abundant or excessive, oedema refers to the swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in tissues, and haemorrhage refers to the escape of blood from ruptured blood vessels. Therefore, perfuse is the correct answer as it specifically describes the action of forcing fluid to flow.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Something that is missing-
- A.
Loss
- B.
Lose
Correct Answer
A. LossExplanation
The given answer "Loss" is the correct answer because it is the noun form of the verb "Lose". "Loss" refers to the act or instance of losing something, such as a defeat, failure, or misplacement. In this case, the word "Loss" is the missing noun form that completes the given options.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A measure-
- A.
Doze
- B.
Dose
Correct Answer
B. DoseExplanation
The word "Doze" is not a measure, but rather a verb meaning to sleep lightly. On the other hand, "Dose" refers to a specific quantity of medication or a substance that is prescribed or administered. Therefore, "Dose" is the correct answer as it aligns with the concept of a measure.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Breathing that takes place normally in the lungs are _______________ (vesicular/bronchial)
Correct Answer
vesicularExplanation
Breathing that takes place normally in the lungs is referred to as vesicular breathing. Vesicular breath sounds are soft, low-pitched sounds heard during inspiration and expiration. These sounds are produced by the movement of air through the smaller airways and the alveoli in the lungs. On the other hand, bronchial breath sounds are louder and higher-pitched, and are heard over the larger airways. Therefore, the correct answer is vesicular.Rate this question:
- 22.
Spitting of blood is ______________ . (hemoptysis/ hematemesis)
Correct Answer
hemoptysisExplanation
Hemoptysis refers to the spitting or coughing up of blood that originates from the respiratory tract, usually from the lungs or bronchial tubes. It is commonly associated with conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung cancer. On the other hand, hematemesis refers to the vomiting of blood that comes from the gastrointestinal tract, typically from the stomach or esophagus. Therefore, the correct answer for the given question is hemoptysis, as it specifically refers to the spitting of blood from the respiratory tract.Rate this question:
- 23.
During examination the _____________ (mucus/ mucous) membrane was found to be inflamed.
Correct Answer
mucousExplanation
The correct answer is "mucous" because it is the correct spelling of the word that describes the type of membrane that was found to be inflamed during the examination. The word "mucous" refers to the mucus membrane, which lines various parts of the body and produces mucus.Rate this question:
- 24.
PPD is-
- A.
Pulmonary function test
- B.
Type of lung x-ray
- C.
Drug used to treat pneumonia
- D.
Tuberculin test (Purified Protein Derivative)
Correct Answer
D. Tuberculin test (Purified Protein Derivative)Explanation
PPD stands for Purified Protein Derivative, which is a substance used in the Tuberculin test. The Tuberculin test is a diagnostic test used to determine if a person has been infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. A small amount of PPD is injected under the skin, and if the person has been infected, a reaction will occur at the injection site. This reaction indicates that the person has been exposed to tuberculosis and further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Therefore, the correct answer is Tuberculin test (Purified Protein Derivative).Rate this question:
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- 25.
Spasm and narrowing of the bronchi is _________________ (pertussis/ asthma).
Correct Answer
asthmaExplanation
Spasm and narrowing of the bronchi is a characteristic symptom of asthma. During an asthma attack, the muscles surrounding the airways tighten, causing the airways to become narrow and inflamed. This leads to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Pertussis, on the other hand, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which primarily affects the upper respiratory system and does not cause bronchial spasms or narrowing. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is asthma.Rate this question:
- 26.
Radioactive material is injected intravenously or inhaled during a/an-
- A.
MRI
- B.
CT scan
- C.
Lung scintiscan
- D.
Pulmonary angiography
Correct Answer
C. Lung scintiscanExplanation
A lung scintiscan is a diagnostic test that uses radioactive material to create images of the lungs. The radioactive material is injected intravenously or inhaled by the patient. This allows the radioactive material to be distributed throughout the lungs, and the resulting images can help identify any abnormalities or diseases in the lung tissue. MRI, CT scan, and pulmonary angiography do not typically involve the use of radioactive material in the same way as a lung scintiscan.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Pertaining to between the ribs-
- A.
Intracostal
- B.
Infracostal
- C.
Intercostal
- D.
Costochondral
Correct Answer
C. IntercostalExplanation
The term "intercostal" refers to the space or area between the ribs. It is commonly used to describe the intercostal muscles, which are located between the ribs and play a role in breathing. The other options, "intracostal," "infracostal," and "costochondral," do not specifically relate to the space between the ribs. Therefore, "intercostal" is the correct answer in this context.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The act of turning the palm forward or up-
- A.
Supination
- B.
Pronation
- C.
Dorsiflexion
- D.
Rotation
Correct Answer
A. SupinationExplanation
Supination refers to the act of turning the palm forward or up. It involves the rotation of the forearm so that the palm faces upwards or forwards. This movement is commonly observed when holding a bowl of soup or when performing a bicep curl. Pronation, on the other hand, refers to the opposite movement where the palm faces downwards or backwards. Dorsiflexion refers to the movement of bending the foot upwards towards the shin, while rotation refers to the circular movement around an axis.Rate this question:
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- 29.
COPD comprises the following diseases:
- A.
Asthma and Bronchiolytis
- B.
Bronchiectasis and Emphysema
- C.
Bronchitis and Emphysema
- D.
Bronchiolytis and Emphysema
Correct Answer
C. Bronchitis and EmphysemaExplanation
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a condition that affects the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. The correct answer, "Bronchitis and Emphysema," accurately identifies two of the main diseases that fall under the COPD umbrella. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs, while emphysema is the damage to the air sacs in the lungs. Both conditions contribute to the narrowing of the airways and difficulty in breathing that is characteristic of COPD.Rate this question:
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- 30.
ARDS stands for?
- A.
Active Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- B.
Actual Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- C.
Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- D.
Acidic Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Correct Answer
C. Adult Respiratory Distress SyndromeExplanation
ARDS stands for Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome. This condition is characterized by severe lung inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing. It is typically caused by injuries to the lungs, such as pneumonia, sepsis, or trauma. The term "adult" in ARDS differentiates it from a similar condition called neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, which affects newborns.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Collapse of the lung due to absence of surfactant leading to respiratory distress in new-born is termed as:
- A.
Pneumonia
- B.
Bronchiolytis
- C.
Hyaline Membrane Disease
- D.
Pneumonitis
Correct Answer
C. Hyaline Membrane DiseaseExplanation
Hyaline Membrane Disease, also known as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), occurs in newborns due to the absence or deficiency of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs open. Without surfactant, the lung collapses, causing respiratory distress. This condition is characterized by the formation of a hyaline membrane lining the alveoli, which makes it difficult for oxygen to enter the bloodstream. Pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and pneumonitis are different respiratory conditions and not specifically related to the collapse of the lung due to surfactant deficiency.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Function of surfactant.
- A.
Gaseous exchange
- B.
Reduce the surface tension of the fluid lining the alveoli
- C.
Prevent lung patency
- D.
Leads to lung collapse
Correct Answer
B. Reduce the surface tension of the fluid lining the alveoliExplanation
Surfactant is a substance that reduces the surface tension of the fluid lining the alveoli in the lungs. This reduction in surface tension helps to prevent the alveoli from collapsing and allows for easier gaseous exchange during respiration. By reducing the surface tension, surfactant allows the alveoli to remain open and maintain their shape, ensuring efficient exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the bloodstream.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The Hilum of the lung is situated in which surface?
- A.
Costal surface
- B.
Mediastinal surface
- C.
Diaphragmatic surface
- D.
Lung apex
Correct Answer
B. Mediastinal surfaceExplanation
The hilum of the lung is the area where the bronchi, blood vessels, and nerves enter and exit the lung. It is located on the mediastinal surface of the lung. The mediastinal surface is the side of the lung that faces the mediastinum, which is the central compartment of the chest containing the heart, great vessels, and other structures. Therefore, the correct answer is "Mediastinal surface."Rate this question:
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- 34.
Intercostal muscles are the chief muscles of inspiration.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement "Intercostal muscles are the chief muscles of inspiration" is incorrect. The diaphragm is the chief muscle of inspiration, not the intercostal muscles. The diaphragm contracts and flattens during inhalation, increasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs. The intercostal muscles, located between the ribs, assist in the expansion of the chest cavity during deep breathing but are not the primary muscles responsible for inspiration. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Increased respiratory rate.
- A.
Bradypnea
- B.
Tachypnea
- C.
Dyspnea
- D.
Orthopnea
Correct Answer
B. TachypneaExplanation
Tachypnea refers to an increased respiratory rate. It is characterized by rapid breathing, usually exceeding the normal range of 12-20 breaths per minute. Tachypnea can be caused by various factors such as anxiety, fever, lung diseases, or metabolic disorders. The increased respiratory rate helps to compensate for the body's increased oxygen demand or to eliminate excess carbon dioxide. Therefore, tachypnea is the most appropriate term to describe an increased respiratory rate.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Malignant tumour arising in the pleura.
- A.
Mesothelioma
- B.
Pulmonary sarcoma
- C.
Mesotheliosarcoma
- D.
Pleurosarcoma
Correct Answer
A. MesotheliomaExplanation
Mesothelioma is a type of malignant tumor that originates in the pleura, which is the thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. It is commonly caused by exposure to asbestos and can take several years or even decades to develop. Mesothelioma is a distinct form of cancer and is not classified as pulmonary sarcoma, mesotheliosarcoma, or pleurosarcoma, which are different types of tumors. Therefore, the correct answer is Mesothelioma.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The following infection is very common in AIDS patients.
- A.
Tetanus
- B.
Pneumocystits Carinii Pneumonia (PCP)
- C.
Hepatitis
- D.
Bronchogenic Carcinoma
Correct Answer
B. Pneumocystits Carinii Pneumonia (PCP)Explanation
Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia (PCP) is a fungal infection that is commonly seen in AIDS patients. HIV weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections like PCP. PCP affects the lungs and can cause symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and fever. It is a leading cause of illness and death in people with AIDS. Therefore, it is the most likely infection among the options given to be common in AIDS patients.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The following refers to cough without phlegm or sputum:
- A.
Dry cough
- B.
Non-productive cough
- C.
Irritant cough
- D.
Whooping cough
Correct Answer
B. Non-productive coughExplanation
A non-productive cough refers to a cough that does not produce any phlegm or sputum. This type of cough is often caused by irritation or inflammation in the respiratory tract. It is called non-productive because it does not help to clear the airways or remove any mucus. Non-productive coughs can be caused by various factors such as allergies, asthma, viral infections, or irritants in the environment. Treatment for a non-productive cough usually involves addressing the underlying cause and using medications to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.Rate this question:
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- 39.
A sudden spasm of peripheral arteries resulting in cold and numb skin areas.
- A.
Angina
- B.
Raynaud's phenomenon
- C.
Cyanosis
- D.
Clubbing
Correct Answer
B. Raynaud's phenomenonExplanation
Raynaud's phenomenon is characterized by a sudden spasm of peripheral arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to certain areas of the body, typically the fingers and toes. This reduced blood flow can cause the affected areas to become cold and numb. Therefore, Raynaud's phenomenon is the most appropriate explanation for the given symptoms of cold and numb skin areas.Rate this question:
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Mar 28, 2025Quiz Edited by
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Aug 27, 2019Quiz Created by
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