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 does the prefix 'neo-' reflect in medical terminology?

  1. Old

  2. New

  3. Healthy

  4. Onset

The correct answer is: New

The prefix 'neo-' in medical terminology signifies "new." This prefix is commonly used in various terms to indicate something that is recent or newly formed. For example, in the context of oncology, "neoplasm" refers to a new growth of tissue, which can be benign or malignant. In contrast, the other options do not convey the notion of newness. The prefix associated with "old" is typically "paleo-" or "senio-," while "healthy" would be associated with prefixes like "eu-" or "salutary." The term "onset" does not have a specific prefix but rather describes the beginning phase of a condition or symptom. Thus, the understanding of 'neo-' as relating to newness is pivotal in accurately interpreting medical terms that employ this prefix.