Medical Assistant- Medical Terminology

Hysterectomy is the term used to describe the surgical removal of the uterus.

Hepatomegaly refers to the enlargement of the liver. This condition is often associated with liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease. When the liver becomes enlarged, it may indicate inflammation, congestion, or the presence of tumors. Hepatomegaly can be detected through physical examination or imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment for hepatomegaly focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery in severe cases.

The term rhinorrhea refers to the discharge from the nose. It is commonly known as a runny nose and is often associated with colds, allergies, or sinus infections. Rhinorrhea occurs when the nasal tissues produce excess mucus, leading to a watery or thick fluid that drips or runs out of the nose. This symptom is a common occurrence and is usually temporary, resolving on its own or with appropriate treatment.

Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that is attached to bones at the joints. It provides cushioning and support to the joints, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction between bones. Unlike other connective tissues, such as adipose or muscle, cartilage is not directly attached to bones but rather covers the ends of bones at the joints. Epithelial tissue covers the body's surfaces, while nerve tissue transmits signals throughout the body.

The word root "pneumon/o" refers to the lung. This can be inferred from the fact that the other options - air, breathing, bronchus, and pleura - are all related to the respiratory system, of which the lung is a major component. Therefore, "lung" is the most appropriate definition for the word root "pneumon/o".

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain its normal state or equilibrium. It involves various physiological processes that help regulate temperature, pH levels, blood pressure, and other internal conditions within a narrow range. Homeostasis ensures that the body's cells can function optimally and adapt to changes in the external environment. Anabolism and catabolism are metabolic processes, tolerance refers to the body's decreased response to a substance over time, and metabolism encompasses all chemical reactions in the body.

The word roots vas/o refers to vessels. This can include veins, arteries, and capillaries. Vessels are the tubes or channels that transport blood or other fluids throughout the body. Therefore, the correct answer is vessel.

The suffix -rrhexis refers to the act or process of rupturing. It indicates a breaking or bursting open of a body part or organ, often due to excessive pressure or force. This suffix is commonly used in medical terminology to describe conditions or injuries involving the tearing or splitting of tissues or structures. Therefore, the correct answer is rupture.

Osteoblasts are cells that are responsible for bone formation, and they do not directly play a role in preventing infection. On the other hand, hair in the nose helps to filter out particles and prevent them from entering the respiratory system, mucous membranes produce mucus that traps pathogens and prevents them from entering the body, saliva contains enzymes that can break down bacteria, and tears contain lysozyme which has antimicrobial properties. Therefore, all of the options listed except osteoblasts are known to help prevent infection.

The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, located between the lungs. It contains various structures, including the heart, aorta, esophagus, and trachea. However, the pancreas is not located in the mediastinum. Instead, it is situated in the abdominal cavity, behind the stomach. Therefore, the correct answer is pancreas.

The epiglottis is a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue that closes over the opening of the larynx, or the voice box, during swallowing. This prevents food or liquid from entering the lower airway, specifically the trachea, and instead directs it towards the esophagus and into the stomach. The other options listed, such as the alveoli, larynx, uvula, and vocal cords, are not directly involved in closing and sealing off the lower airway during swallowing.

The correct answer is "Cranial" because the cranial cavity is the body cavity that contains the pituitary gland. The cranial cavity is located within the skull and houses the brain and other important structures such as the pituitary gland, which is responsible for producing and releasing hormones that regulate various bodily functions.

Menorrhagia refers to an excessive amount of menstrual flow. It is characterized by prolonged or heavy periods that last longer than 7 days or require frequent changing of sanitary products. This condition can be caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, or certain medical conditions. Women experiencing menorrhagia may have to deal with severe cramps, fatigue, and anemia. Treatment options include hormonal medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or surgical procedures in severe cases.

The suffix -lysis refers to the process of destruction. This can be seen in words like hemolysis, which refers to the destruction of red blood cells, or osteolysis, which refers to the destruction of bone tissue. The suffix -lysis is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate the breaking down or destruction of a specific substance or tissue.

The liver is located beneath the diaphragm in the right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity. It is the largest internal organ and plays a crucial role in various bodily functions such as metabolism, detoxification, and production of bile. Its position in the right upper quadrant allows it to receive blood from the hepatic artery and portal vein, and it is also connected to the gallbladder and the bile ducts.

Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells, are the only cells listed that do not have a nucleus. During their maturation process, erythrocytes expel their nucleus to make more space for hemoglobin, the molecule responsible for carrying oxygen. This lack of a nucleus allows erythrocytes to have a biconcave shape, which increases their surface area and enhances their ability to transport oxygen efficiently. Therefore, the correct answer is erythrocyte.

The word root myc/o refers to mold. This can be understood by analyzing the other options. "Muscle" is represented by the root my/o, "many" does not have any relation to myc/o, "middle" is represented by the root mes/o, and "mucus" is represented by the root myx/o. Therefore, mold is the correct interpretation of myc/o.