Medical Terminology Chapter 15: Word Parts

Medical Terminology: Key Word Parts

• cerebell/o: Refers to the cerebellum, a significant brain structure responsible for coordination and balance.

• cerebr/o: Indicates the cerebrum, which is the largest part of the brain and involved in higher brain functions including thought and action.

• dur/o: Relates to the dura mater, the tough outer covering of the brain and spinal cord, providing protection.

• encephal/o: Represents the brain as a whole, encompassing various structures and functions.

• gangli/o, ganglion/o: Denotes ganglion, a cluster of nerve cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system.

• gli/o: Refers to glial cells or "gluey substance," which support and protect neurons in the nervous system.

• mening/o, meningi/o: Connects to the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

• myel/o: Relates to the spinal cord, the major conduit for information traveling between the brain and the body.

• neur/o: Indicates a nerve, which carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

• radic/o, radicul/o, rhiz/o: Refers to nerve roots, the origin points of nerves from the spinal cord.

• esthesi/o: Pertains to sensation, sensitivity, or feeling, crucial for sensory perception.

• ment/o, psych/o: Relates to the mind and psychological processes, important in mental health and cognitive functions.

• mon/o: Stands for one or single, often used to indicate singularity in medical terminology.

• phas/o: Refers to speech, essential in communication and language functions.

• poli/o: Indicates gray matter, the region of the brain and spinal cord with neuronal cell bodies and processing capabilities.

• quadri/o: Denotes four, commonly used in conditions affecting all four limbs or quadrants.

• -iatrist: Refers to a specialist or physician, often used in medical terms to indicate a professional in a specific field.

• -iatry: Indicates treatment or specialty, commonly associated with fields of medicine and healthcare.

• -ictal: Relates to seizures or attacks, often used to describe events associated with epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

• -paresis: Refers to slight paralysis, indicating reduced movement or strength in a specific area of the body.

Test your knowledge of essential medical terminology from Chapter 15 through these flashcards focusing on word parts. Learn about the roots and meanings of terms related to the nervous system, including cerebellum, brain, and dura mater. Perfect for students in health-related fields.