Questions and Answers
Which component of medical terminology is added to the beginning of words to modify their meaning?
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What does the prefix 'Cardio-' typically refer to in medical terminology?
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In medical terminology, what does the abbreviation 'BMI' stand for?
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Which term is an example of a medical abbreviation for a severe respiratory illness?
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What do medical suffixes do to words in terms of meaning?
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Which prefix is commonly associated with low blood sugar levels?
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'NSAID' is an abbreviation commonly used for which type of medication?
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'Neuro-' as a prefix in medical terms generally relates to what aspect of health?
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'Epi-' as a prefix in medical terminology commonly refers to which substance?
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'Post-' as a prefix in medical terms usually indicates a relationship with what event?
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Study Notes
Overview of Medical Terminology
Understanding medical terminology is essential for healthcare professionals who must accurately convey complex information to patients. Medical terminology consists of specific vocabulary relating to human health and illness. It includes medical prefixes, medical suffixes, medical abbreviations, and anatomical terms. Here we explore the basics of these components.
Medical Prefixes
Prefixes are added to the beginning of words to modify their meaning. Some common prefixes in medical terminology include:
- A- (anemia)
- Anti- (anticancer drug)
- Bio- (biopsy)
- Cardio- (cardiovascular system)
- De- (dehydrated)
- Epi- (epinephrine)
- Hyp- (hypoglycemic)
- Hyper- (hyperthyroidism)
- Neuro- (neuronal function)
- Post- (postoperative state)
- Pre- (preparatory examination)
Medical Abbreviations
Abbreviations are concise codes representing longer words or phrases. Examples include:
- CT scan (Computed Tomography Scanner)
- BMI (Body Mass Index)
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- ICU (Intensive Care Unit)
- LDL cholesterol (Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol)
- NSAID (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
- SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
Medical Suffixes
Similar to prefixes, suffixes are added to the end of words to change their meaning or provide additional detail. Examples of medical suffixes include:
- -itis (inflammation)
- -ectomy (removal surgery)
- -graphy (radiologic image, photograph)
- -osis (condition)
- -algia (pain)
- -pathy (disease)
- -cyte (cell)
- -genesis (formation process)
- -gram (measurement)
Anatomy Terms
These are specific words referring to body structures and functions. Examples of anatomical terms include:
- Artery
- Liver
- Muscle
- Brain
- Organ
- Skull
- Tissue
- System (skeletal, digestive, nervous)
- Gland (endocrine, exocrine)
In summary, proper understanding of medical terminology requires familiarity with prefixes, suffixes, abbreviations, and anatomical terms. This knowledge aids in accurate communication within the medical community and enhances patient understanding.
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