HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What does the term 'allogeneic' mean?

1. Refers to synthetic material

2. Belonging to the same species, but genetically different

3. Partially erupted tooth coverage

4. Removal by absorption

The correct answer is: Belonging to the same species, but genetically different

The term 'allogeneic' is used in medical and dental contexts to describe a situation involving transplantation or transfer of tissues or cells from a donor to a recipient who is genetically different but still of the same species. This term frequently appears in discussions about organ transplants or bone grafts, where the donor and recipient may share the same genetic background as humans, yet are not genetically identical. This distinction is crucial in understanding compatibility and rejection issues in medical procedures. The other options do not accurately define 'allogeneic': synthetic material represents entirely man-made substances; partially erupted tooth coverage refers to dental procedures concerning teeth that have not fully emerged from the gums; and removal by absorption describes a biological or chemical process unrelated to the concept of tissue or cell transfer in transplantation. Thus, the correct choice reflects the essence of 'allogeneic' as it pertains specifically to genetic variation among donors and recipients within the same species.