What suffix denotes a condition characterized by weakness?

Prepare for the Wellstar Certified Medical Assistant CMA Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions featuring hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification exam!

The suffix that denotes a condition characterized by weakness is "-asthenia." This suffix is derived from the Greek word "asthenia," meaning weakness or lack of strength. It is commonly used in medical terminology to describe various conditions that involve a reduction in strength or energy. For instance, myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of voluntary muscles. Understanding this suffix is vital for recognizing and interpreting medical conditions related to weakness in patients.

The other suffixes do not relate to weakness specifically: "-algia" refers to pain; "-cyte" pertains to cells; and "-emia" is used to describe conditions pertaining to blood. Each of these has a different focus, making "-asthenia" the appropriate choice for conditions involving weakness.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy