Which suffix means disintegration?

Master medical terminology for success in healthcare. Study combining forms, suffixes, and prefixes with multiple choice questions. Enhance your comprehension and excel in your exams!

Multiple Choice

Which suffix means disintegration?

Explanation:
Disintegration is conveyed by the suffix -lysis, from a Greek root meaning to loosen or dissolve. In medical terms, -lysis indicates breakdown or destruction of a structure, such as hemolysis (rupture of red blood cells) or thrombolysis (dissolution of a clot). The other suffixes have different meanings: -emia refers to a blood condition, -penia indicates deficiency, and -pnea refers to breathing. Because -lysis specifically denotes disintegration, it’s the best fit.

Disintegration is conveyed by the suffix -lysis, from a Greek root meaning to loosen or dissolve. In medical terms, -lysis indicates breakdown or destruction of a structure, such as hemolysis (rupture of red blood cells) or thrombolysis (dissolution of a clot). The other suffixes have different meanings: -emia refers to a blood condition, -penia indicates deficiency, and -pnea refers to breathing. Because -lysis specifically denotes disintegration, it’s the best fit.

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