ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What is the medical term for hives?

1. Vertigo

2. Episatzis

3. Urticaria

4. Aura

The correct answer is: Urticaria

Urticaria is the medical term used to describe hives, which are raised, itchy welts that may appear on the skin due to an allergic reaction or other triggers. This condition results from the release of histamine and other chemicals in the body, causing blood vessels to leak and resulting in swelling. Urticaria can manifest in various forms, including acute and chronic, depending on the duration and underlying causes. The other terms presented do not correspond to hives. For instance, vertigo refers to a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often related to inner ear issues. Epistaxis is the medical term for a nosebleed, which involves bleeding from the nasal cavity. Aura typically describes a sensory phenomenon that may precede a migraine headache or seizure, referring to visual or auditory disturbances. Understanding the correct terminology and its implications is vital in recognizing and communicating medical conditions effectively.