Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What does sclerosis refer to in a medical context?

1. Swelling of tissues

2. Abnormal hardening

3. Infection of the tissues

4. Enlargement of blood vessels

The correct answer is: Abnormal hardening

Sclerosis in a medical context specifically refers to the abnormal hardening of body tissues or organs. This hardening can occur in various parts of the body and is often associated with diseases that cause fibrosis or scarring of the tissue, such as multiple sclerosis or scleroderma. The process can lead to a loss of flexibility and normal function in the affected areas, impacting overall health. Sclerosis is distinct from terms like swelling, which indicates an increase in size or fluid accumulation in tissues, or infection, which involves the presence of pathogens and associated inflammatory responses. Additionally, the enlargement of blood vessels pertains to conditions like vasodilation, rather than hardening, making sclerosis a unique term used to describe tissue changes related to fibrosis or thickening. Understanding this specific definition is essential for grasping various medical conditions and their implications for patient care.