HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What term describes a local collection of pus?

1. Abdominal abscess

2. Fissured

3. Abscess

4. Germinate

The correct answer is: Abscess

The term that describes a local collection of pus is "abscess." An abscess is a walled-off area filled with pus, which typically forms as a result of an infection. This infection can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites, and the immune system's response to these pathogens leads to the accumulation of pus, consisting of dead cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. In dental terminology, abscesses can appear in various forms, such as a dental abscess, which can manifest in the gums or the tooth itself. Understanding this term is crucial for identifying infections in oral health and effectively treating them. The other terms do not accurately describe a localized pus collection. An abdominal abscess specifically refers to a similar condition but is localized in the abdominal area, not a general term for any collection of pus. Fissured relates to a split or crack, particularly in tissues, and does not pertain to pus build-up. Germinate refers to the process of growing or developing, particularly in seeds, and is unrelated to infections or pus.