Which combining form denotes a growth or mass protruding from a mucous membrane?

• A. polyp/o
• B. rhabd/o
• C. scler/o
• D. aut/o

Answer: (A)

A growth or mass protruding from a mucous membrane is described by the combining form polyp/o. This form literally conveys a polyp, which is a projection that extends from the lining of a hollow organ, such as a nasal cavity, colon, or uterus. That’s why polyp/o is the best fit for this concept.

Rhabd/o refers to rod-shaped or striped, often used for muscles (rhabdomy/o), not a mucous-membrane growth. Scler/o means hardness or the sclera of the eye, and aut/o means self, neither of which describe a mucous-membrane protrusion.