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 the stiffening of a joint?

Arthralgia
Arthritis
Ankylosis
Arthropathy

The correct answer is: Ankylosis

Ankylosis is a condition characterized by the stiffening or fixation of a joint, which often results from inflammation or injury leading to abnormal bone growth. This condition limits the range of motion and can cause significant discomfort for the affected individual. Commonly, ankylosis occurs as a result of certain types of arthritis, like ankylosing spondylitis, where the spine can become fused over time. In contrast, arthralgia refers to joint pain, which does not necessarily imply stiffening. Arthritis is an umbrella term for inflammation of joints and while it may cause stiffness, it is not synonymous with the complete stiffening of a joint; some arthritis conditions result in swelling and pain rather than stiffness alone. Arthropathy is a general term that refers to any disease of the joints, including both inflammatory and non-inflammatory conditions, but it does not specifically define the stiffening of a joint. Thus, ankylosis accurately represents the condition of a joint becoming stiff.