American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Test with engaging quizzes and detailed explanations. Boost your test readiness with multiple-choice questions designed to enhance your knowledge and confidence.

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What type of abnormalities are most likely to occur during the first part of a pregnancy?

Skeletal
Cardiac
Neurologic
Genetic

The correct answer is: Skeletal

Skeletal abnormalities are particularly significant during the early stages of pregnancy, primarily because the first trimester is a crucial period for fetal development. During this time, the foundational structure of the skeleton begins to form. Factors such as maternal nutrition, environmental exposures, and genetic influences can affect this process, leading to potential skeletal anomalies. The embryonic period, which lasts until about the 8th week of gestation, involves critical differentiation and development of various systems, including the musculoskeletal system. This is when the developing fetus is most susceptible to teratogens, substances that can disrupt normal development and lead to physical malformations, including abnormalities in bone and cartilage. While the other types of abnormalities mentioned, such as cardiac, neurologic, and genetic, also have their vulnerabilities during pregnancy, the skeletal system is uniquely sensitive to various influences during this early development stage, making skeletal abnormalities more likely.