NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

What is the term for inflammation of the meninges caused by a bacterial or viral infection?

1. Poliomyelitis

2. Chondrosarcoma

3. Meningitis

4. Cerebral palsy

The correct answer is: Meningitis

Meningitis refers specifically to the inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This condition can arise from infections caused by bacteria or viruses, and it can lead to serious health complications. The symptoms of meningitis may include severe headache, fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light, among others. The distinction of meningitis as a condition caused by infections makes it critical to understand, especially in a phlebotomy context, where healthcare professionals may need to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through a lumbar puncture to diagnose and ascertain the type of infection involved. Understanding this term is essential for recognizing the potential implications of infections that can affect the central nervous system. In contrast, poliomyelitis refers to a viral disease affecting the spinal cord and can lead to paralysis, while chondrosarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in cartilage. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder caused by a non-progressive brain injury or malformation that occurs while a child's brain is still developing. Each of these terms refers to distinct medical conditions that do not involve the inflammation of the meninges.