Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the medical term used to refer to eyelashes?

1. Blepharitis

2. Palpebrae

3. Cilia

4. Cornea

The correct answer is: Cilia

The medical term that refers to eyelashes is "Cilia." In anatomical and biological contexts, 'cilia' can denote small hair-like structures found on cells, but it specifically applies here to the eyelashes, which are short, hair-like projections that serve important functions, such as protecting the eyes from debris and providing a sensory function to detect touch. The other terms listed pertain to different aspects of eye anatomy. 'Blepharitis' refers to inflammation of the eyelids, not the eyelashes themselves. 'Palpebrae' is the anatomical term for the eyelids, which are the structures that cover and protect the eye, while 'cornea' is the transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. Therefore, 'Cilia' is the correct choice when specifically looking for the medical term for eyelashes.