Which term refers to the tissue response to injury or irritation?

The correct answer is tendinitis, which refers specifically to the inflammation of a tendon in response to injury or irritation. Tendinitis occurs when tendons become irritated or inflamed due to repetitive motion or overuse, often leading to pain and discomfort in the affected area. This tissue response is a natural part of the healing process, as the body attempts to protect and repair the injured tendon.

In contrast, laceration refers to a cut or tear in the tissue, which does not necessarily imply an inflammatory response. Prophylaxis pertains to preventive measures taken to guard against disease or injury, rather than a response to an existing injury. A vector is typically an organism that transmits disease-causing pathogens, not a term associated with tissue response. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique role tendinitis plays in the context of bodily responses to injury.