Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the villi in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.

Question 2

A patient presents with yellow-orange coloration of the skin and eyes. Laboratory tests reveal high levels of bilirubin in the blood. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Jaundice

Question 3

Which anatomical structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 4

Which combining form refers to the liver?

Accepted Answer

hepat/o

Question 5

A patient is diagnosed with achalasia. Which physiological process is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter

Question 6

Which of the following is the correct order of the segments of the small intestine from proximal to distal?

Accepted Answer

Duodenum, jejunum, ileum

Question 7

A patient with a history of chronic alcohol use develops a chronic degenerative disease of the liver characterized by scarring and loss of function. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Cirrhosis

Question 8

Which enzyme is secreted by both the pancreas and salivary glands to digest starch?

Accepted Answer

Amylase

Question 9

A patient presents with black, tarry stools. Which term best describes this finding?

Accepted Answer

Melena

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the process of emulsification?

Accepted Answer

The physical process of breaking up large fat globules into smaller globules

Question 11

A patient is found to have polyps protruding from the mucous membrane of the colon. What is the medical term for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Colonic polyposis

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

Accepted Answer

Producing insulin

Question 13

A patient with a history of gallstones is most likely to have which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Cholelithiasis

Question 14

Which anatomical structure is responsible for rhythmic contractions that move food through the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 15

A patient presents with difficulty swallowing. What is the medical term for this symptom?

Accepted Answer

Dysphagia

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)?

Accepted Answer

It prevents the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus.

Question 17

A patient with a twisting of the intestines on itself is diagnosed with which condition?

Accepted Answer

Volvulus

Question 18

Which of the following combining forms means 'fat'?

Accepted Answer

lip/o

Question 19

A patient is experiencing frequent passage of loose, watery stools. What is the medical term for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Diarrhea

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of the pancreas in digestion?

Accepted Answer

It secretes enzymes that digest carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Pathology - Med Term CH 5

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