Free Medical Terminology Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the overall meaning of "corpus"?

Accepted Answer

Body

Answer

The Latin root 'corpus' directly translates to 'body.' In medical terminology, it is frequently used to refer to the main part or body of an organ or structure. Examples include the corpus callosum (body of the callosum) or corpus luteum (yellow body), consistently denoting the principal mass or structure.

Question 2

Which of the following describes a white blood cell count that is abnormally low?

Accepted Answer

Leukopenia

Answer

Leukopenia is the correct medical term for an abnormally low white blood cell (leukocyte) count. The prefix 'leuko-' refers to white, and the suffix '-penia' means deficiency or abnormally low. In contrast, leukocytosis indicates an abnormally high white blood cell count, anemia is a deficiency of red blood cells, and leukemia is a type of cancer affecting blood and bone marrow.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes a region of dead cardiac tissue?

Accepted Answer

An infarct

Answer

An infarct is a localized area of dead tissue that results from a lack of blood supply, a condition known as ischemia. In the context of cardiac tissue, a myocardial infarct (heart attack) specifically refers to an area of heart muscle that has died due to blocked blood flow. Other options describe different conditions: hypertrophy is enlargement, induration is hardening, and angina pectoris is chest pain due to reduced blood flow, not dead tissue.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the term "lithiasis"?

Accepted Answer

Abnormal condition of stones

Answer

The suffix '-lithiasis' in medical terminology consistently refers to the formation or presence of stones (calculi) within the body. This term describes an abnormal condition where these concretions are present, such as in cholelithiasis (gallstones) or nephrolithiasis (kidney stones). It specifically denotes the pathological presence of stones.

Question 5

Which of the following is the menarche?

Accepted Answer

Beginning of menstruation

Answer

Menarche specifically refers to the first menstrual period a female experiences, marking the onset of puberty and reproductive capability. It is a key physiological milestone in female development, distinct from the broader development of secondary sexual characteristics or the end of childhood. This term precisely defines the beginning of menstruation.

MD - Doctor of Medicine Practice Test

MD - Doctor of Medicine Practice Test

Free Medical Terminology Questions and Answers