What does the suffix '-osis' typically indicate?

Study for the Medical Terminology for Health Professions Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations for each term. Prepare effectively for your upcoming test!

The suffix '-osis' is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a condition or disease, particularly one that is abnormal or pathological. This suffix helps to identify a specific medical condition affecting a particular body part or system. For example, 'neurosis' refers to a condition affecting the nervous system, while 'fibrosis' describes a condition characterized by the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue.

The other answer options refer to different concepts in medical terminology. The suffix indicating a process or action would typically be '-ation' or '-ing,' while '-ic' or '-al' relates to 'pertaining to.' The term for enlargement is often represented by the suffix '-megaly.' Understanding the specific implications of suffixes is crucial in medical terminology as it aids in accurately identifying and communicating various health conditions.

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