Cystitis is the inflammation of the?

Appeared in: CGHS SSC - 2018

Explanation

Cystitis is the medical term for inflammation of the urinary bladder.
The term is derived from the Greek root "kystis" (meaning bladder) and the suffix "-itis" (meaning inflammation).
It is one of the most common types of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
The inflammation is typically caused by an ascending bacterial infection from the urethra, with E. coli being the most common pathogen.

Option A: Inflammation of the colon is known as colitis. It affects the large intestine, not the urinary system.
Option B: Inflammation of the uterus is called metritis, and inflammation of its lining is endometritis. These conditions are part of the female reproductive system.
Option C: Inflammation of the rectum is known as proctitis. The rectum is the final section of the large intestine.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of medical terminology for inflammation (Cystitis) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses are central to managing cystitis, which includes administering prescribed antibiotics, managing pain, and providing crucial patient education on prevention.
Key patient education points include proper perineal hygiene (wiping front-to-back for females), increasing fluid intake to flush the urinary system, and voiding after intercourse.
What if? If a patient with cystitis symptoms also reports fever, chills, and flank pain, the nurse must suspect pyelonephritis (kidney infection). This is a more serious condition requiring immediate escalation and treatment to prevent kidney damage and sepsis.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical terminology.
First, analyze the term 'Cystitis'. Break it down into its root and suffix.
Recognize that the suffix '-itis' universally means 'inflammation' in medical terms.
Recall or deduce the meaning of the root word 'cyst-'. In the context of the urinary system, 'cyst-' refers to the bladder.
Combine the meanings: 'Cyst-' (bladder) + '-itis' (inflammation) = inflammation of the bladder.
Scan the options to find 'Urinary bladder' and select it as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QhM1MpbnkO2VelWxLJdN4r

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 955-957

E6 Pathology-Vandana Puri & Kavita Gaur Textbook of Pathology and Genetics p. 314-316

Practise the full CGHS SSC - 2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.