American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the American Academy of Professional Coders exam with our comprehensive quiz, featuring multiple-choice questions designed to enhance your coding skills and knowledge. Ideal for aspiring medical coders looking to succeed in the certification process.

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What condition is characterized by an abnormal curvature of the thoracic spine?

  1. Lordosis

  2. Knee valgus

  3. Kyphosis

  4. Herniation

The correct answer is: Kyphosis

The condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the thoracic spine is kyphosis. This condition involves an excessive forward rounding of the back, leading to a hunched posture, which can be observed as a curvature that exceeds the normal range. Kyphosis can be caused by various factors including degenerative diseases, developmental issues, or trauma. In contrast, lordosis refers to an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, knee valgus pertains to the angulation of the knees where they angle inward, and herniation, particularly in a spinal context, typically refers to a condition where spinal discs protrude and can compress nearby nerves, not primarily relating to a curvature of the spine itself. Understanding these specific terms helps clarify the nature and location of various spinal and skeletal conditions.