Which term describes inflammation of the inner lining of the heart?

Which term describes inflammation of the inner lining of the heart?

• A. Ascites
• B. Hemorrhoids
• C. Erythema
• D. Endocarditis

Answer: (D)

Inflammation of the inner lining of the heart is endocarditis. The heart’s inner lining is called the endocardium, and the suffix -itis indicates inflammation, so combining endocardium with -itis gives endocarditis. This term specifically names inflammation affecting that inner heart layer, which can involve the heart valves as well. The other terms refer to different body areas: ascites is the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal area, and erythema is redness of the skin due to inflammation.

Inflammation of the inner lining of the heart is endocarditis. The heart’s inner lining is called the endocardium, and the suffix -itis indicates inflammation, so combining endocardium with -itis gives endocarditis. This term specifically names inflammation affecting that inner heart layer, which can involve the heart valves as well.

The other terms refer to different body areas: ascites is the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal area, and erythema is redness of the skin due to inflammation.