Which prefix means 'Brain'?

Master medical terminology with the Dean Vaughn Medical Terminology Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions for comprehensive learning. Enhance your understanding and prep for success!

Multiple Choice

Which prefix means 'Brain'?

Explanation:
Understanding prefixes that point to a body part helps you decode medical terms. Encephal- means brain, from the Greek enkephalos, and it shows up in terms like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and encephalopathy (brain disease). Because it directly designates the brain, it’s the correct prefix for this question. Plexus refers to a network or braid of nerves or vessels, not a specific organ. Ren- indicates the kidney, as in renal. Pilo- means hair, as in pilose or piloerection. These associations explain why they don’t fit for meaning brain. Memorize that encephal- points to the brain, and you’ll recognize brain-related terms quickly.

Understanding prefixes that point to a body part helps you decode medical terms. Encephal- means brain, from the Greek enkephalos, and it shows up in terms like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and encephalopathy (brain disease). Because it directly designates the brain, it’s the correct prefix for this question.

Plexus refers to a network or braid of nerves or vessels, not a specific organ. Ren- indicates the kidney, as in renal. Pilo- means hair, as in pilose or piloerection. These associations explain why they don’t fit for meaning brain. Memorize that encephal- points to the brain, and you’ll recognize brain-related terms quickly.

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