Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ALAT Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness and confidence!

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What do you call signs of disease that are not readily observable?

  1. Clinical symptoms

  2. Subclinical signs

  3. Visible indicators

  4. Recessive traits

The correct answer is: Subclinical signs

Subclinical signs refer to indicators of disease that may not be immediately apparent or easily observed during a physical examination or behavioral assessment. These signs often require more detailed diagnostic techniques or monitoring to be identified. Subclinical disease can be particularly important in veterinary medicine and laboratory settings, as animals may appear healthy while harboring underlying health issues that could affect their welfare or the integrity of research results. In contrast, clinical symptoms are observable signs that indicate a disease and are often the focus in a clinical setting. Visible indicators are straightforward signs that can be noted without extensive examination. Recessive traits relate to genetics and inheritance rather than disease manifestations. Recognizing subclinical signs is crucial for effective animal care, research validity, and implementing appropriate health management practices in laboratory settings.