New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What term describes a fluid-filled growth on the body?

1. Abscess

2. Lesion

3. Cyst

4. Carbuncle

The correct answer is: Cyst

The term that describes a fluid-filled growth on the body is "cyst." A cyst is typically a closed sac-like structure that can contain fluids, semi-solid material, or gas. They can occur in various tissues of the body and are usually benign, though some may require medical intervention if they become infected or cause discomfort. In contrast, an abscess is a localized collection of pus that is often painful and indicates an infection. It is not simply a fluid-filled growth but rather involves a buildup of pus due to an immune response to infection. The term "lesion" is a more general term that refers to any abnormal tissue change, which could include sores, tumors, or cysts, but does not specify a fluid-filled structure. A carbuncle is a cluster of boils caused by bacterial infection in hair follicles and also involves pus rather than being a simple fluid-filled growth like a cyst. Therefore, given the specificity of the definition of a cyst as a fluid-filled growth, it is the most appropriate term among the choices provided.