Medical Vocabulary Quiz 2

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Talynstarburst
T
Talynstarburst
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 6 | Total Attempts: 1,530
| Attempts: 177 | Questions: 48
Please wait...
Question 1 / 48
0 %
0/100
Score 0/100
1. A treatment for cancer using drugs is known as:

Explanation

Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer that uses drugs to kill or slow down the growth of cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments like surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy drugs can be given orally, intravenously, or topically, and they work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. This treatment can be used to cure cancer, control its growth, or relieve symptoms. Remission therapy, radiation therapy, and oncogenic therapy are not accurate terms for the treatment of cancer using drugs.

Submit
Please wait...
About This Quiz
Medical Vocabulary Quiz 2 - Quiz

Introduction To Medical Vocabulary

QUIZ 2, 50 multiple choicequestions

help to study for Final Exam

See other quizzes to help studyfor the Final

2. The patient's skin had a yellowish coloration. The health care provider should chart that the skin:

Explanation

The patient's yellowish skin coloration indicates jaundice, a condition caused by an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Jaundice is typically associated with liver dysfunction or obstruction of the bile ducts. Therefore, charting that the skin was jaundiced accurately describes the observed symptom and helps in identifying the underlying cause.

Submit
3. What term means improvement or absence of signs of disease?

Explanation

Remission refers to the improvement or absence of signs of a disease. It indicates that the disease is no longer active or causing symptoms. Remission can occur spontaneously or as a result of treatment. It is often used in the context of chronic diseases such as cancer, where it signifies a period of time when the disease is under control and the patient's health improves. Remission does not necessarily mean that the disease is cured, as it can sometimes recur or relapse.

Submit
4. In the term cytoplasm, the combining form cyt/o means:

Explanation

The combining form "cyt/o" in the term cytoplasm refers to "cell". This can be understood by breaking down the word: "cyto-" meaning cell, and "-plasm" referring to the substance or material within the cell. Therefore, the correct answer is "cell".

Submit
5. The medical suffix that means view of is:

Explanation

The suffix "-opsy" in medical terminology refers to the act of viewing or examining. It is commonly used in terms like autopsy (examination of a corpse), biopsy (examination of tissue samples), and endoscopy (examination of internal organs using a flexible tube with a camera). Therefore, "-opsy" is the correct suffix that means "view of" in medical terms.

Submit
6. What medical term means disease-related death of tissue?

Explanation

Necrosis is the medical term that refers to the death of tissue caused by disease. It occurs when there is a lack of blood supply or infection in a specific area, leading to the tissue dying off. This can result in the tissue becoming discolored, swollen, and eventually breaking down. Necrosis is a serious condition that requires medical attention and treatment to prevent further damage and complications.

Submit
7. The skin is essentially composed of two layers known as:

Explanation

The skin is made up of two main layers: the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and is responsible for protecting the body from the environment. It is composed of several layers of cells, including the outermost layer called the stratum corneum. The dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis and is made up of connective tissue. It contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The dermis provides support and nourishment to the epidermis and is responsible for the skin's elasticity and strength.

Submit
8. The spreading of cancer cells from the primary tumor is known as:

Explanation

Metastasis refers to the process of cancer cells spreading from the primary tumor to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. During metastasis, cancer cells break away from the original tumor, invade nearby tissues, and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic vessels. They then travel to distant organs or tissues where they form secondary tumors. This process is a key characteristic of malignant tumors and is responsible for the majority of cancer-related deaths. Hyperplasia refers to an increase in the number of cells in a tissue, dysplasia refers to abnormal changes in cell size, shape, and organization, and oncogenic refers to the ability of a substance to cause cancer.

Submit
9. Which term describes the spread of malignant tumors to a distant location?

Explanation

Metastasis is the correct answer because it refers to the spread of malignant tumors to distant locations in the body. It is a crucial characteristic of cancer and occurs when cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and invade nearby tissues or travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form secondary tumors in other parts of the body. Encapsulation refers to the process of surrounding a tumor with a fibrous capsule, anaplasia refers to the loss of normal cellular differentiation, and infiltration refers to the invasion of nearby tissues by cancer cells.

Submit
10. The word root that means color is:

Explanation

The word root "chrom" refers to color. This can be seen in words like "chromatic" (relating to color) and "monochrome" (having only one color). Therefore, "chrom" is the correct answer.

Submit
11. A pigment that gives color to the skin is:

Explanation

Melanin is a pigment that gives color to the skin. It is produced by special cells called melanocytes, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis. Melanin helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays by absorbing and scattering the UV radiation. The amount and type of melanin in the skin determine a person's skin color. People with more melanin have darker skin, while people with less melanin have lighter skin.

Submit
12. The combining form meaning death is:

Explanation

The combining form "necr/o" means death. This can be seen in medical terms such as necrosis (death of cells or tissues) and necropsy (an autopsy performed to determine cause of death). The prefix "necr/o" is derived from the Greek word "nekros" meaning corpse or dead body.

Submit
13. A chronic skin condition characterized by red lesions with silvery scales is known as:

Explanation

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by red lesions with silvery scales. It is an autoimmune disease that causes the skin cells to multiply faster than normal, leading to the formation of thick, scaly patches. Psoriasis is not contagious and can vary in severity from person to person. It commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, but can occur anywhere on the body. Treatment options for psoriasis include topical creams, oral medications, light therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Submit
14. A _______ is any agent or substance that incites cancer

Explanation

A carcinogen is any agent or substance that incites cancer. It refers to any factor that can increase the risk of developing cancer by damaging the DNA or causing changes in the cells. Carcinogens can be found in various forms such as chemicals, radiation, certain viruses, and even some behaviors like smoking or exposure to certain pollutants. They are known to initiate the development of cancer by promoting the growth of abnormal cells in the body.

Submit
15. A hypodermic injection would be given

Explanation

A hypodermic injection is given under the skin because it is intended to deliver medication or substances directly into the layer of tissue beneath the dermis. This method allows for faster absorption and distribution of the injected substance into the bloodstream. Injecting above the skin, between the skin, or within the skin would not effectively deliver the medication to the desired location or achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

Submit
16. DNA, which contains genetic material, is the universal acronym for:

Explanation

The correct answer is "deoxyribonucleic acid". DNA is the genetic material found in all living organisms. It is composed of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The term "deoxyribonucleic acid" accurately describes the structure and composition of DNA, as it refers to the presence of deoxyribose sugar and nucleic acid components.

Submit
17. The medical term for a bedsore is:

Explanation

A bedsore, also known as a pressure ulcer, is a localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin. The medical term for a bedsore is a decubitus ulcer.

Submit
18. A malignant carcinoma arising from connective tissue is known as:

Explanation

A malignant carcinoma arising from connective tissue is known as a sarcoma. Carcinomas typically arise from epithelial tissues, while sarcomas develop from connective tissues such as bones, muscles, and cartilage. Sarcomas are characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in these tissues, which can invade nearby structures and spread to other parts of the body. Unlike neuromas (tumors originating from nerve cells), lymphomas (cancers of the lymphatic system), and lipomas (benign tumors of fat cells), sarcomas are specifically associated with malignant tumors arising from connective tissue.

Submit
19. In the term chromosome, the combining form chrom/o means

Explanation

The combining form "chrom/o" in the term chromosome refers to color. This is because "chrom/o" is derived from the Greek word "chroma," which means color. Chromosomes are thread-like structures in the nucleus of cells that contain genetic information, and they are named so because they can be stained and observed under a microscope due to their distinct colors. Therefore, the correct answer is color.

Submit
20. An abscess is defined as:

Explanation

An abscess is a collection of pus from a localized infection. Pus is a thick, yellowish fluid that contains dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. When the body detects an infection, it sends white blood cells to the affected area to fight off the bacteria. As the white blood cells die, they accumulate along with other debris and bacteria, forming pus. The pus then collects in a confined space, creating an abscess. Abscesses can occur in various parts of the body and are typically accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, and redness.

Submit
21. An injury to the skin causing discoloration and swelling without breaking the skin surface is known as:

Explanation

A contusion is an injury to the skin that causes discoloration and swelling without breaking the skin surface. It is commonly known as a bruise. Laceration refers to a deep cut or tear in the skin, while a fissure is a narrow opening or crack. A vesicle is a small blister or fluid-filled sac.

Submit
22. List building blocks of the body in order from simple to complex

Explanation

The body is made up of molecules, which are the smallest units of matter. Molecules combine to form cells, which are the basic structural and functional units of life. Cells then organize and work together to form tissues, which are groups of cells that perform specific functions. Tissues further organize and interact to form organs, which are complex structures made up of different types of tissues that work together to perform specific functions in the body. Therefore, the correct order from simple to complex is molecules, cells, tissues, organs.

Submit
23. The word root that means nail is:

Explanation

The word root "onych" means nail. This can be seen in words like "onychectomy" (removal of a nail) and "onychophagia" (nail biting). The other options, "pachy," "scler," and "trich," do not have any relation to nails.

Submit
24. The combining form "myc/o" means:

Explanation

The combining form "myc/o" refers to fungus. This can be understood by breaking down the word "myc/o" into its parts. "Myc" is derived from the Greek word "mykes" which means fungus, and the combining form "-o" indicates a condition or a disease. Therefore, "myc/o" specifically refers to a condition or disease related to fungus.

Submit
25. Vitiligo is defined as a:

Explanation

Vitiligo is a condition in which there is a loss of pigment-producing cells in the skin, resulting in whitish areas. This explanation accurately describes the definition of vitiligo without any additional unnecessary information.

Submit
26. One who studies tissues is known as a(n):

Explanation

A histologist is someone who studies tissues. They specialize in examining the microscopic structure of tissues, including their cells, organization, and composition. They use various techniques and tools to analyze tissue samples and identify any abnormalities or diseases. Histologists play a crucial role in medical research, diagnosis, and treatment by providing valuable insights into the structure and function of tissues.

Submit
27. Which is NOT a type of muscle tissue?

Explanation

The question asks for a type of muscle tissue, and the answer "nerve" does not fit this category. Nerve tissue is responsible for transmitting and receiving signals in the nervous system, while muscle tissues are specialized for contraction and movement.

Submit
28. A small, solid, circumscribed skin elevation is a:

Explanation

A small, solid, circumscribed skin elevation is referred to as a papule. Unlike a macule, which is a flat, discolored area of the skin, a papule is a raised bump. It is different from a vesicle, which is a small blister filled with fluid, and a nevus, which is a pigmented or colored spot on the skin. A papule is a solid elevation that can vary in size and color, and it is commonly associated with conditions like acne or insect bites.

Submit
29. Overgrowth of scar tissue due to excessive collagen formation is called a/an:

Explanation

A keloid is an overgrowth of scar tissue caused by excessive collagen formation. Unlike normal scars, keloids extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound and can be raised, itchy, and sometimes painful. They are more common in individuals with darker skin tones and can occur after surgery, injury, or even from minor skin trauma like acne. Keloids can be difficult to treat and may require medical intervention such as corticosteroid injections, silicone sheets, or surgical removal.

Submit
30. The prefix "meta" means

Explanation

The prefix "meta" is derived from the Greek word meaning "after" or "change". It is commonly used in English to indicate a concept that goes beyond or transcends its original form. For example, in metaphysics, "meta" refers to the study of concepts beyond the physical world. Therefore, the correct answer is "after or change".

Submit
31. What suffix means formation, cause, or produce?

Explanation

The suffix "-gen" means formation, cause, or produce. It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate something that generates or produces a particular condition or substance. For example, carcinogen refers to a substance that causes cancer, while pathogen refers to a microorganism that causes disease. Therefore, "-gen" is the correct answer for this question.

Submit
32. The combining form lei/o means:

Explanation

The combining form lei/o means "smooth". This can be inferred from the given options where "white", "soft", and "hard" do not directly relate to the concept of "smooth". Additionally, the term "lei/o" is often used in medical terminology to indicate smooth muscle, further supporting the correct answer.

Submit
33. What combining form means flesh or muscle?

Explanation

The combining form "sarc/o" means flesh or muscle. This can be seen in words like "sarcoma" which refers to a malignant tumor of connective or supportive tissue, particularly muscle tissue. It can also be seen in words like "sarcopenia" which is the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with aging. Therefore, "sarc/o" is the correct answer as it specifically relates to flesh or muscle.

Submit
34. Excessive formation and growth of normal cells is:

Explanation

Hyperplasia refers to the excessive formation and growth of normal cells in an organ or tissue. This can occur in response to certain stimuli such as hormonal changes or tissue damage. Unlike cancerous growth, hyperplasia involves an increase in the number of cells rather than abnormal cell growth. It is a common physiological response and can be reversible if the underlying cause is addressed.

Submit
35. Cancer causing (mutated) genes are known as:

Explanation

Cancer causing genes that have undergone mutations are known as oncogenes. These genes play a significant role in promoting the development and progression of cancer. Oncogenes can be activated by various factors such as genetic mutations, environmental factors, or viral infections. The activation of oncogenes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division, ultimately contributing to the formation of tumors and the development of cancer.

Submit
36. What term describes localized tumor growth?

Explanation

Carcinoma in situ is the correct answer because it refers to a localized tumor growth where abnormal cells are present only in the layer of cells where they first developed and have not invaded nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. Sarcoma, pleomorphic, and anaplastic do not specifically describe localized tumor growth and may involve invasion or spread to other areas.

Submit
37. A malignant tumor of glandular epithelial tissue is known as:

Explanation

Adenocarcinoma is the correct answer because it refers to a malignant tumor that originates from glandular epithelial tissue. This type of tumor is characterized by the abnormal growth of glandular cells, which can occur in various organs such as the breast, lung, colon, or prostate. Adenocarcinomas are typically aggressive and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Submit
38. The pale area at the proximal end of the nail is the:

Explanation

The pale area at the proximal end of the nail is called the lunula. It is a crescent-shaped whitish area that is visible at the base of the nail. The lunula is actually the visible part of the nail matrix, which is the area where nail growth occurs. It appears pale because the cells in this region are still developing and have not yet hardened or become fully pigmented. The lunula is a useful indicator of nail health and can provide information about certain medical conditions when it changes in appearance.

Submit
39. The definition of the suffix "-malacia" is:

Explanation

The correct answer is "softening" because the suffix "-malacia" is derived from the Greek word "malakia" which means softening. This suffix is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate a condition or state of softening in a specific organ or tissue. For example, osteomalacia refers to the softening of bones due to a deficiency of vitamin D. Therefore, "softening" is the most accurate definition for the suffix "-malacia".

Submit
40. The combining form hidr/o means:

Explanation

The combining form hidr/o refers to sweat. This can be deduced by analyzing the other options: sweet, water, and hidden. None of these options relate to the term hidr/o. However, sweat is a clear association with hidr/o, as it is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to sweat glands or sweating.

Submit
41. Xer/o is a combining form meaning:

Explanation

The combining form "xer/o" is derived from the Greek word "xeros" which means dry. It is used to indicate dryness or dry conditions. Therefore, the correct answer is dry.

Submit
42. An instrument used to cut the skin - as for grafting - is a:

Explanation

A dermatome is an instrument used to cut the skin, specifically for grafting purposes. It is commonly used in surgical procedures to remove thin slices of skin for transplantation. The other options, dermatoscopy, dermatophyte, and dermascope, are not instruments used for cutting the skin, but rather refer to different medical terms and tools related to skin examination and fungal infections.

Submit
43. The parts of a cell that perform many of its functions such as construction of molecules and release of energy are known as:

Explanation

The correct answer is organelles. Organelles are specialized structures within a cell that perform specific functions. They are responsible for tasks such as protein synthesis, energy production, and waste removal. Nuclei, on the other hand, are the central part of a cell that contains genetic material, including chromosomes. While nuclei play a crucial role in controlling cell activities, they do not directly perform the functions mentioned in the question.

Submit
44. Which prefix means up, toward, or apart?

Explanation

The prefix "ana-" means up, toward, or apart. This can be seen in words like "anatomy" (the study of the structure of living organisms, which involves dissecting or cutting apart), "anabolism" (the process of building up complex substances from simpler ones in living organisms), and "anaphylaxis" (a severe allergic reaction that causes the body to go into shock and can lead to a life-threatening situation). Therefore, "ana-" is the correct answer.

Submit
45. Which medical term is spelled correctly?

Explanation

Rhytidoplasty is the correct spelling for a medical term. Rhytidoplasty refers to a surgical procedure commonly known as a facelift, which aims to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin on the face and neck. The other options, sebacious, oncyhomalacia, and zeroderma, are misspelled or do not correspond to any recognized medical terms.

Submit
46. Which term is spelled correctly?

Explanation

Paronychia is the correct spelling. The term refers to a nail infection that occurs around the edges of the fingernail or toenail. It is characterized by redness, swelling, and pain around the nail. The other options, hydradenitis, echymosis, and emolient, are misspelled terms. Hydradenitis should be spelled hidradenitis and refers to inflammation of sweat glands. Echymosis should be spelled ecchymosis and refers to the discoloration of the skin caused by bleeding underneath. Emolient should be spelled emollient and refers to a substance that softens and soothes the skin.

Submit
47. The abused client comes to the emergency room with multiple purplish patches on the skin caused by leaking blood vessels. The health care worker would chart that the client has multiple:

Explanation

The correct answer is ecchymoses. Ecchymoses refers to purplish patches on the skin caused by leaking blood vessels. It is commonly known as bruising. This term accurately describes the condition of the abused client who presents with multiple purplish patches on the skin. Abrasions are superficial injuries that involve the scraping or wearing away of the skin. Lesions are general abnormal changes in the skin or other tissues. Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin. Therefore, ecchymoses is the most appropriate term to describe the client's condition.

Submit
48. Xanthoderma is another term for:

Explanation

Xanthoderma is a medical term that refers to a condition where the skin appears yellowish. This discoloration is typically caused by an increased level of bilirubin in the blood, which is a characteristic symptom of jaundice. Jaundice can occur due to various underlying health conditions such as liver disease, hepatitis, or obstruction of the bile ducts. Therefore, the correct answer is jaundice.

Submit
View My Results

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 20, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 20, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 20, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Talynstarburst
Cancel
  • All
    All (48)
  • Unanswered
    Unanswered ()
  • Answered
    Answered ()
A treatment for cancer using drugs is known as:
The patient's skin had a yellowish coloration. The health care...
What term means improvement or absence of signs of disease?
In the term cytoplasm, the combining form cyt/o means:
The medical suffix that means view of is:
What medical term means disease-related death of tissue?
The skin is essentially composed of two layers known as:
The spreading of cancer cells from the primary tumor is known as:
Which term describes the spread of malignant tumors to a distant...
The word root that means color is:
A pigment that gives color to the skin is:
The combining form meaning death is:
A chronic skin condition characterized by red lesions with silvery...
A _______ is any agent or substance that incites cancer
A hypodermic injection would be given
DNA, which contains genetic material, is the universal acronym for:
The medical term for a bedsore is:
A malignant carcinoma arising from connective tissue is known as:
In the term chromosome, the combining form chrom/o means
An abscess is defined as:
An injury to the skin causing discoloration and swelling without...
List building blocks of the body in order from simple to complex
The word root that means nail is:
The combining form "myc/o" means:
Vitiligo is defined as a:
One who studies tissues is known as a(n):
Which is NOT a type of muscle tissue?
A small, solid, circumscribed skin elevation is a:
Overgrowth of scar tissue due to excessive collagen formation is...
The prefix "meta" means
What suffix means formation, cause, or produce?
The combining form lei/o means:
What combining form means flesh or muscle?
Excessive formation and growth of normal cells is:
Cancer causing (mutated) genes are known as:
What term describes localized tumor growth?
A malignant tumor of glandular epithelial tissue is known as:
The pale area at the proximal end of the nail is the:
The definition of the suffix "-malacia" is:
The combining form hidr/o means:
Xer/o is a combining form meaning:
An instrument used to cut the skin - as for grafting - is a:
The parts of a cell that perform many of its functions such as...
Which prefix means up, toward, or apart?
Which medical term is spelled correctly?
Which term is spelled correctly?
The abused client comes to the emergency room with multiple purplish...
Xanthoderma is another term for:
Alert!

Advertisement