Which of the following suffixes refers to a condition that is abnormal?

Which of the following suffixes refers to a condition that is abnormal?

• A. -osis
• B. -megaly
• C. -otomy
• D. -algia

Answer: (A)

The suffix that refers to a condition that is abnormal is -osis. This suffix is used in medical terminology to indicate a disease, disorder, or condition, often implying an abnormal increase or a pathological state. For example, "nephrosis" signifies a kidney condition that is abnormal, highlighting that there is a deviation from the normal state. In contrast, the other suffixes have different meanings. -megaly refers to an enlargement of an organ or tissue, indicating an increase in size rather than describing an abnormal condition in a broader sense. -otomy signifies a surgical incision or cut into a specified part of the body, thus relating to procedures rather than conditions. -algia denotes pain, indicating a symptom rather than a condition per se. Understanding these definitions enhances comprehension of medical terms and their implications in diagnosing and describing various health conditions.

The suffix that refers to a condition that is abnormal is -osis. This suffix is used in medical terminology to indicate a disease, disorder, or condition, often implying an abnormal increase or a pathological state. For example, "nephrosis" signifies a kidney condition that is abnormal, highlighting that there is a deviation from the normal state.

In contrast, the other suffixes have different meanings. -megaly refers to an enlargement of an organ or tissue, indicating an increase in size rather than describing an abnormal condition in a broader sense. -otomy signifies a surgical incision or cut into a specified part of the body, thus relating to procedures rather than conditions. -algia denotes pain, indicating a symptom rather than a condition per se. Understanding these definitions enhances comprehension of medical terms and their implications in diagnosing and describing various health conditions.