Which suffix indicates a disease condition?

Which suffix indicates a disease condition?

• A. -oma
• B. -itis
• C. -megaly
• D. -pathy

Answer: (D)

The suffix that indicates a disease condition is -pathy. This suffix originates from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or disease. When attached to a root word, -pathy typically denotes a disorder related to the root. For example, in the term "neuropathy," the suffix indicates a disease or condition affecting the nerves. In contrast, while -oma refers to a tumor or mass, -itis signifies inflammation (such as in "appendicitis," which is the inflammation of the appendix), and -megaly indicates enlargement (as in "hepatomegaly," meaning liver enlargement). These terms describe specific conditions but do not universally indicate a disease in the broader sense like -pathy does.

The suffix that indicates a disease condition is -pathy. This suffix originates from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or disease. When attached to a root word, -pathy typically denotes a disorder related to the root. For example, in the term "neuropathy," the suffix indicates a disease or condition affecting the nerves.

In contrast, while -oma refers to a tumor or mass, -itis signifies inflammation (such as in "appendicitis," which is the inflammation of the appendix), and -megaly indicates enlargement (as in "hepatomegaly," meaning liver enlargement). These terms describe specific conditions but do not universally indicate a disease in the broader sense like -pathy does.