Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

What term refers to the absence of the external ear?

1. Anophthalmia

2. Cheiloschisis

3. Ectrosyndactyly

4. Microtia

The correct answer is: Microtia

The term that refers to the absence of the external ear is microtia. Microtia is a congenital condition where the outer ear is underdeveloped, ranging from a small, malformed ear to complete absence. This condition can affect one or both ears and may be associated with other ear-related issues, such as hearing loss. In contrast, anophthalmia refers to the condition where one or both eyes are absent. Cheiloschisis, also known as a cleft lip, describes a split or opening in the upper lip, often seen in conjunction with cleft palate. Ectrosyndactyly is a rare condition characterized by the fusion of fingers or toes, often accompanied by the absence of certain digits. Each of these terms describes distinct congenital anomalies that do not relate to the external ear.