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-osis

Suffix Medical Terminology

Abnormal condition or increase.

Example: cyanosis (bluish skin from low oxygen)

Sources

Appendix A: Word Parts and What They Mean · MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
Fundamentals of Nursing, Chapter 19 Key Terms · OpenStax

Terms built with -osis

atherosclerosisBuildup of fatty plaque in artery walls, narrowing and hardening the arteries.
cyanosisBluish or dusky color of the skin and mucous membranes, usually from low oxygen.
ecchymosisA bruise: bleeding under the skin that causes discoloration.
osteoporosisLoss of bone mass that makes bones weak and likely to break.
pyrosisHeartburn: a burning feeling behind the breastbone, often from stomach acid.

Related terms

-ole, -uleSmall.
-omaTumor or mass.
-opiaVision condition.
-opsyViewing or examination.
-ostomy, -stomySurgical creation of an opening.
-otomy, -tomyCutting into; incision.
-ousPertaining to or having the quality of.
-paresisPartial paralysis or weakness.

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