What is the suffix used to denote a tumor?

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 used to denote a tumor is -oma. This suffix originates from the Greek term "oma," which literally means "swelling" or "tumor." In medical terminology, it is commonly attached to the root of a word to specify the type of tumor being described. For instance, "carcinoma" refers to a cancerous tumor, and "lipoma" refers to a benign tumor made of fatty tissue.

The other suffixes have distinct meanings and are used in different contexts. For example, -itis denotes inflammation, as seen in "appendicitis," which refers to inflammation of the appendix. The suffix -osis indicates a condition or disease, such as in "neurosis," which refers to a psychological condition that is not classified as a psychosis. Lastly, -opathy relates to a disease or disorder of an organ or system, like "neuropathy," which indicates a disease affecting the nervous system.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy