Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

The root word term for oncologist means what?

1. Tumor

2. Cell

3. Disease

4. Pathology

The correct answer is: Tumor

The term "oncologist" derives from the Greek word "onkos," which means "tumor" or "mass." An oncologist is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancers. Understanding this root word is significant as it directly relates to the field of oncology, which focuses on tumors and their treatment. In this context, the root of the word provides key insight into the focus area of the medical specialty. While other options refer to terms associated with health—such as cells, diseases, and pathology—they do not specifically pertain to the study or treatment of tumors, which is the primary concern of an oncologist. Therefore, recognizing that "onkos" pertains to tumors is essential for grasping the role and responsibilities of healthcare professionals in oncology.