Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

What term describes the flow of blood through tissues?

1. Perfusion

2. Hypoxia

3. Ischemia

4. Dilation

The correct answer is: Perfusion

The term that describes the flow of blood through tissues is "perfusion." Perfusion refers to the process by which blood circulates through the vascular bed of a tissue and delivers necessary nutrients and oxygen while removing metabolic waste products. This process is crucial for maintaining the health and functionality of tissues, as adequate perfusion ensures that cells receive the oxygen and nutrients they need for metabolism and function. In contrast, hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, which can occur when perfusion is inadequate. Ischemia specifically describes a condition where there is insufficient blood flow to meet the metabolic demands of a tissue, often leading to tissue damage. Dilation, on the other hand, typically refers to the widening of blood vessels, which can increase perfusion under certain circumstances but does not directly describe the flow of blood through tissues. Therefore, perfusion is the most accurate term for this concept.