Which suffix indicates inflammation in a medical term?

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 indicates inflammation in a medical term is "-itis". This suffix is commonly used in medical terminology to describe conditions that involve inflammation of specific body parts or systems. For instance, "appendicitis" refers to the inflammation of the appendix, while "dermatitis" signifies inflammation of the skin. This understanding is fundamental in medical practice, as recognizing the suffix can help in the identification and interpretation of various medical conditions related to inflammation. Other suffixes like "-osis," "-lysis," and "-otomy" carry different meanings; for example, "-osis" refers to a condition or abnormal state, "-lysis" denotes the breakdown or destruction of substances, and "-otomy" refers to a surgical incision. Knowing these distinctions is essential for anyone working in healthcare, as it helps decipher diagnoses and treatment plans more effectively.

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