American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Practice Exam

The term used to describe hair loss resulting from radiation exposure is epilation. This term specifically refers to the loss of hair that can occur as a side effect of radiation therapy. When the scalp or other areas of the body that contain hair follicles are exposed to radiation, the damage can lead to hair falling out. This is a temporary or sometimes permanent condition depending on the dose of radiation and the individual’s response to it.

Alopecia is a broader term that refers to hair loss in general, which can be caused by various factors, including genetics, illness, or other environmental influences, not exclusively by radiation.

Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin and may occur following radiation exposure, but it does not specifically denote hair loss.

Necrosis involves the death of cells or tissue and is not directly related to hair loss. It typically refers to more severe and irreversible damage to tissues that can occur from various causes, including radiation but does not specifically focus on hair follicles.

Thus, the correct use of epilation in the context of radiation exposure is what makes it the appropriate choice for this question.