Which term means inflammation of the synovial membrane of a joint?

• A. Arthrodesis
• B. Arthritis
• C. Nevus
• D. Synovitis

Answer: (D)

Synovitis is the inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines a joint. The synovial membrane produces lubricating fluid, so when it becomes inflamed, you get joint swelling, pain, and limited movement. The other terms refer to different concepts: arthrodesis is the surgical fusion of a joint; arthritis is inflammation of a joint in general (not specifically the synovial membrane); a nevus is a skin mole. Since the question targets inflammation of the joint’s lining, synovitis is the precise term.