The terms “multiple sclerosis” and “atherosclerosis” are similar in that they both refer to the concept of “systemic” degeneration inflammation mobil hardening
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is “hardening.”
Explanation:
The terms “multiple sclerosis” (MS) and “atherosclerosis” share the suffix “-sclerosis,” which means “hardening” in Greek. However, they refer to different medical conditions that affect separate parts of the body.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
- MS is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord.
- In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, the protective covering of nerve fibers, leading to inflammation, scarring, and hardening (sclerosis) of nerve tissue.
- This disrupts nerve signals, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, vision problems, coordination issues, and fatigue.
- Atherosclerosis:
- Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the buildup of fatty plaques, cholesterol, and cellular debris on artery walls.
- This condition reduces blood flow and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension.
- It develops gradually and is often linked to factors like poor diet, smoking, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Commonality:
Both diseases involve hardening:
- MS involves hardening of nerve tissue due to damage and scarring.
- Atherosclerosis involves hardening of arteries due to plaque buildup.
Thus, “hardening” is the best term that connects both conditions.