What is the medical term that means fat?
a. lip/o
b. hist/o
c. system/
d. viscerlo
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is a. lip/o.
Explanation:
In medical terminology, the term that means “fat” is lip/o, derived from the Greek word lipos, meaning fat. This root is commonly used in the formation of terms related to fat, adipose tissue, and conditions associated with excess fat.
For example:
- Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fatty tissue.
- Liposuction: A cosmetic surgery procedure to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body.
- Lipid: A group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, oils, and waxes, which are crucial in cell structure and energy storage.
Here’s a breakdown of the other options:
- b. hist/o: This root refers to tissue. For example, histology is the study of tissues in the body.
- c. system/: This is a prefix indicating a system of organs or structures within the body, such as in circulatory system or nervous system.
- d. viscerlo: This root relates to the internal organs, such as in visceral (pertaining to the internal organs).
Lip/o is an important term in both medical and scientific fields because fats play a crucial role in human physiology. They serve as a major source of energy, are involved in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), and provide insulation and protection for internal organs. Excess fat, however, can lead to health complications such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Understanding the medical terms related to fat is essential in diagnosing, treating, and preventing such conditions.
In conclusion, “lip/o” is the correct term for fat in medical terminology, and it is used in a wide range of contexts involving fat-related processes and conditions in the body.