FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

The inflammation of muscle, known as ________________, can cause the pink muscle to decay and turn dark.

1. Myositis

2. Mastitis

3. Meningitis

4. Arthritis

The correct answer is: Myositis

Myositis refers specifically to the inflammation of muscle tissue. This condition can result from various causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or trauma. When muscles become inflamed, they may undergo necrosis, leading to the decay of muscle tissue. This decay is characterized by the muscle turning from a healthy pinkish color to a darker hue, which is significant in a veterinary context when assessing the health of the animal and the quality of meat post-mortem. The other terms listed refer to inflammation of different tissues or organs. Mastitis involves inflammation of the mammary gland, often seen in lactating animals. Meningitis pertains to inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, while arthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in veterinary science to diagnose and treat various conditions effectively.