Medical Technologist Knowledge Flashcards

Decreased platelet count brought on by heparin treatment

Answer: Heparin induced-thrombocytopenia (HIT)

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious, immune-mediated adverse reaction to heparin treatment, characterized by a significant decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia). Paradoxically, despite the low platelet count, HIT increases the risk of thrombosis (blood clots). The description directly links the decreased platelet count to heparin treatment, which is the defining feature of this condition.

Meningitis characterized by high total protein, low glucose levels, lactate levels below 35mg/dL

Answer: fungal meningitis

Fungal meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by a fungal infection, and its cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis exhibits distinct characteristics. The description accurately lists these: high total protein, low glucose levels (as fungi consume glucose), and lactate levels typically below 35 mg/dL, which helps differentiate it from bacterial meningitis where lactate levels are usually much higher.

A colorless result of lowering bilirubin. Urobilinogen is more concentrated in the intestines as a result of hemolysis.

Answer: urobilinogen

Urobilinogen is a colorless byproduct formed in the intestines from the reduction of bilirubin by bacteria. In cases of hemolysis, where red blood cells are broken down at an increased rate, more bilirubin is produced, leading to a higher concentration of urobilinogen in the intestines. This increased urobilinogen is then reabsorbed and excreted, often resulting in elevated levels in urine and stool.

Local coagulation. clotting of blood in part of circulatory system

Answer: thrombosis

Thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot, or thrombus, within a blood vessel, which obstructs the normal flow of blood. The description 'Local coagulation. clotting of blood in part of circulatory system' precisely defines this pathological process. Thrombosis can occur in arteries or veins and is a significant cause of conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms.

Abnormally low blood count of neutrophils(WBC)

Answer: neutropenia

Neutropenia is a hematological condition defined by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, which are the most common type of white blood cell (WBC). The description 'Abnormally low blood count of neutrophils (WBC)' directly matches this definition. Neutropenia significantly impairs the body's ability to fight off infections, making individuals highly susceptible to bacterial and fungal pathogens.

Chronic systemic sclerosis characterized by hardening of the skin and internal organs

Answer: hepatosplenomegaly

Hepatosplenomegaly refers to the simultaneous enlargement of both the liver (hepato-) and the spleen (spleno-). While the description 'Chronic systemic sclerosis characterized by hardening of the skin and internal organs' primarily defines Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis), severe cases of systemic sclerosis can involve various internal organs, including the liver and spleen. Although not a defining characteristic, hepatosplenomegaly can occur as a complication or manifestation of systemic sclerosis, particularly in advanced stages or specific subtypes affecting visceral organs.

Anemia as result of inhibition of DNA synthesis during RBS production

Answer: megaloblastic anemia

Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the production of abnormally large, immature red blood cells (megaloblasts) due to impaired DNA synthesis. This defect typically arises from deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, both of which are crucial cofactors for DNA replication. Without adequate DNA synthesis, red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow cannot divide properly, leading to the formation of dysfunctional cells.

Anemia as result of inhibition of DNA synthesis during RBS production

Answer: megaloblastic anemia

Megaloblastic anemia is a condition where the body produces large, immature, and dysfunctional red blood cells due to a defect in DNA synthesis during their production. This impairment is most commonly caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, essential nutrients required for proper DNA replication. The inability of red blood cell precursors to divide correctly results in fewer, larger, and less effective red blood cells.

blood coagulation test that analyzes the effects of heparin treatment to detect anomalies in blood clotting

Answer: activated partial thromboplastin time(APTT)

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) is a crucial blood coagulation test that assesses the intrinsic and common pathways of the coagulation cascade. It is particularly sensitive to the effects of unfractionated heparin, an anticoagulant medication. Therefore, APTT is routinely used to monitor heparin therapy and to detect intrinsic pathway clotting abnormalities, making it essential for managing patients on this treatment.

Condition where the body produces too few platelets

Answer: thrombotic throbocytopenic purpura (TTP)

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a severe blood disorder characterized by the formation of widespread microvascular thrombi, which rapidly consume platelets. This accelerated consumption leads to a significant and dangerous reduction in the number of circulating platelets (thrombocytopenia). Although the bone marrow may attempt to increase platelet production, it often cannot keep pace with the rapid destruction, resulting in a net deficit of platelets.

CSF pigmentation due to subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answer: xanthochromia

Xanthochromia refers to the yellowish discoloration of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is a key indicator of a subarachnoid hemorrhage. This pigmentation occurs when red blood cells, released into the CSF during bleeding, lyse and release hemoglobin. The hemoglobin is then metabolized into bilirubin, giving the CSF its characteristic yellow hue, confirming that bleeding occurred several hours prior to the lumbar puncture.

Increase in number of neutrophilic leukocytes in blood/tissue. aka neutrocytosis, neutrophil leukocytosis

Answer: neutrophilia

Neutrophilia is the medical term for an elevated count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood or tissues. Neutrophils are vital components of the immune system, primarily responsible for fighting bacterial and fungal infections. An increase in their numbers, also known as neutrocytosis or neutrophil leukocytosis, commonly signals an active infection, inflammation, or a physiological stress response in the body.

Cancer characterized by plasma cells (involved in immune responce) grow out of control.

Answer: multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow responsible for producing antibodies. In this disease, malignant plasma cells proliferate uncontrollably, accumulating in the bone marrow and producing abnormal antibodies (M-proteins). This uncontrolled growth leads to various complications, including bone destruction, kidney dysfunction, anemia, and impaired immune responses.

Test which use thromboplastin and calcium as reactants to see how fast plasma in blood clots

Answer: prothrombin time (PT)

The Prothrombin Time (PT) test measures the time it takes for plasma to clot after the addition of tissue factor (thromboplastin) and calcium. This test specifically evaluates the extrinsic and common pathways of the coagulation cascade. PT is widely used to monitor oral anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin, and to assess liver function or identify deficiencies in specific clotting factors.

Malignant tumor formed of grandular structures in epithelial tissue

Answer: adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is a type of malignant tumor that develops from glandular epithelial cells, which are specialized cells that form glands and secrete substances. These tumors can arise in various organs throughout the body, including the lungs, colon, breast, and prostate. Adenocarcinomas are characterized by their ability to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites.

Medication for insulin secretion from the pancreas

Answer: tolbutamide

Tolbutamide is an oral hypoglycemic medication belonging to the sulfonylurea class, primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. Its main mechanism of action is to stimulate the beta cells within the pancreas to increase the secretion of insulin. By promoting insulin release, tolbutamide helps to lower blood glucose levels, thereby managing hyperglycemia in diabetic patients.