West Coast EMT Block One Exam

In a patient's chart, what does hepatomegaly indicate?

1. the problem is a direct consequence of the patient's heart disease

2. the problem is unrelated to the patient's heart condition

3. the organ involved is enlarged

4. the problem is with the patient's liver

The correct answer is: the problem is with the patient's liver

Hepatomegaly refers specifically to the enlargement of the liver, which is directly what the term describes. This condition is usually identified through physical examination or imaging studies and can indicate various underlying health issues affecting the liver itself. It is often a sign of liver disease, infections, or systemic illnesses that impact liver function or structure. While hepatomegaly can be associated with heart disease (which could enhance the significance of other options), the fundamental definition relates to the liver being enlarged. The term focuses on the organ involved, confirming that the liver is the specific organ demonstrating abnormal size changes.