Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by the absence of hair from areas where it normally grows?

1. Alopecia

2. Gangrene

3. Psoriasis

4. Eczema

The correct answer is: Alopecia

Alopecia is the correct answer because it specifically refers to a condition that results in hair loss from areas where hair typically grows on the body. This can manifest in various forms, including alopecia areata, which causes patchy hair loss, and androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. The defining feature of alopecia is its impact on hair follicles, leading to partial or complete loss of hair. In contrast, gangrene refers to the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood supply or infection, and it does not involve hair loss. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin and does not inherently cause hair loss but rather affects skin appearance and health. Eczema is another skin condition associated with inflammation and itching, often leading to rashes, but does not directly result in the absence of hair from specific areas. Thus, alopecia is distinctly linked to the absence of hair, making it the appropriate choice.