Which term means pertaining to a point away from the origin?

• A. Distal
• B. Dermatome
• C. Dermatitis
• D. Diuresis

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how directional terms describe location relative to a fixed point, usually where a limb attaches to the body. Distal means farther from that origin or attachment point. So, the fingers are distal to the wrist, meaning they are farther away from the body’s center than the wrist is. This is what the term conveys when describing location away from the origin.

Dermatome refers to a skin area innervated by a single spinal nerve, not distance from the origin. Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin. Diuresis is increased urine production.