Which prefix indicates an acute or sharp condition?

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 prefix that indicates an acute or sharp condition is "sharp-." This term is often used in both medical terminology and common language to describe a condition characterized by a sudden onset, intensity, or severity. In a medical context, when describing pain or symptoms, "sharp" typically refers to a sensation that is acute and penetrating, which aids healthcare professionals in accurately diagnosing and treating patients.

The other prefixes do not convey the same meaning. "Neo-" refers to something new or recent, commonly used in terms like "neoplasm" for a new growth. "Ad-" denotes movement toward something, often used in conjunction with other terms to describe directionality. "Anti-" indicates opposition or counteraction, as seen in terms like "antibiotic," which refers to substances that fight against bacteria. Hence, "sharp-" specifically aligns with the notion of a condition being acute, making it the correct choice.

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