Which term denotes the formation of mineral stones anywhere in the body?

• A. Hematamesis
• B. Hematochezia
• C. Lithiasis
• D. Dyschezia

Answer: (C)

Lithiasis describes the formation of mineral stones anywhere in the body. The root lith- means stone, and the suffix -iasis indicates a condition or process, so it’s used broadly for stone formation in different organs (nephrolithiasis = kidney stones, cholelithiasis = gallstones, sialolithiasis = salivary gland stones). The other terms refer to bleeding or bowel issues: hematemesis is vomiting blood, hematochezia is passing fresh blood per rectum, and dyschezia is painful or difficult defecation.