HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes the dilation of a blood vessel due to wall weakness?

1. Aneurysm

2. Angina

3. Arteriosclerosis

4. Hemophilia

The correct answer is: Aneurysm

The term that describes the dilation of a blood vessel due to wall weakness is "aneurysm." An aneurysm occurs when the layers of a blood vessel wall become weakened, often leading to a bulging area. This can happen in various blood vessels, most commonly in the aorta, which is the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The bulging can pose serious health risks, as it may rupture and lead to life-threatening internal bleeding. Other terms in the options refer to different medical conditions. Angina pertains to chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, arteriosclerosis describes the thickening and hardening of arterial walls, and hemophilia is a genetic disorder affecting blood clotting. Understanding each term's significance and implications helps clarify their differences from aneurysm, which is specifically related to blood vessel dilation and structural integrity.