Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

What condition results from air or gas trapped within body tissues?

1. Crepitus

2. Edema

3. Inflammation

4. Necrosis

The correct answer is: Crepitus

Crepitus refers specifically to the presence of air or gas trapped within body tissues, which can occur in various tissues, including skin and subcutaneous tissues. This condition is often associated with certain medical conditions, such as gas gangrene or after trauma, and can be detected during a physical examination when palpation of the affected area reveals a crackling sensation. In contrast, edema concerns the accumulation of fluid in tissues, leading to swelling but does not involve air or gas. Inflammation is a broader response of the body to injury or infection characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain but is not defined by the presence of gases. Necrosis refers to the death of cells or tissues, which can result from various causes including lack of blood supply, but again does not involve the trapping of air or gas within tissues. Therefore, crepitus is the most accurate term for the condition described in the question.