Enhance your dental knowledge for the HOSA Dental Terminology Exam. Utilize our comprehensive questions and flashcards featuring explanations and hints. Prepare effectively for your test today!

Practice this question and more.


What is indicated by cyanosis?

  1. Redness of the skin

  2. Bluish tinge of the skin and membranes

  3. Paleness of the skin

  4. Yellowing of the skin

The correct answer is: Bluish tinge of the skin and membranes

Cyanosis indicates a bluish tinge of the skin and mucous membranes, which occurs when there is a lack of adequate oxygen in the blood. This condition often points to issues related to respiratory or circulatory problems, where the oxygen-rich blood is insufficient, leading veins carrying deoxygenated blood to give the skin a bluish color. Identifying cyanosis is crucial in clinical settings as it can serve as a sign of serious underlying health issues, prompting immediate medical assessment and intervention. Understanding this term and its implications is vital for healthcare professionals, especially in dentistry and medical fields, as it may relate to a patient's systemic health status.