American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

How many body cavities does the human body have?

1. 3

2. 4

3. 5

4. 6

The correct answer is: 5

The human body is typically categorized into five main body cavities, each serving distinct functions and housing various organs. These cavities include the cranial cavity, which encases the brain; the spinal cavity, which contains the spinal cord; the thoracic cavity, home to the heart and lungs; the abdominal cavity, where organs such as the stomach and liver are located; and the pelvic cavity, which encloses the reproductive organs and urinary bladder. Understanding the number of body cavities is crucial in fields like anatomy and medical coding, as it provides insight into how various organs are organized and how they interact with one another. The delineation of these cavities is essential for proper documentation, diagnosis, and treatment planning in healthcare settings.