Question

which combining form means plaque or fatty substance?
a. ather/o
b. -plasty
c. arteri/od. arthr/o

Explanation:

• Ather/o is a combining form that specifically refers to plaque or fatty substances (e.g., atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty plaque in arteries).
• -plasty is a suffix meaning surgical repair, not a combining form for plaque/fat.
• Arteri/o refers to arteries, not fatty plaque.
• Arthr/o refers to joints, not fatty plaque.

Answer:

a. Ather/o