-aemia
suffix
UKˈ-iː.mi.əUS
A British English spelling of '-emia,' used in medical terms to denote a condition related to the blood.
Example Sentences
Anaemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin.
Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
Polycythaemia refers to an increased concentration of red blood cells in the blood.
Hypoxaemia occurs when there is a low level of oxygen in the blood.
Hyperlipidaemia involves elevated levels of lipids or fats in the blood.
Thalassaemia is an inherited blood disorder affecting haemoglobin production.
A doctor may diagnose septicaemia, which is a severe infection spreading through the bloodstream.
Haemophilia, unlike conditions ending in '-aemia,' involves a blood clotting disorder rather than a condition of the blood itself.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix denoting blood-related medical conditions.The suffix '-aemia' is used in medical terminology to refer to conditions related to the blood. It originates from Greek 'haima,' meaning blood. For example, 'anaemia' indicates a deficiency of red blood cells or haemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen in the blood. 'Hyperglycaemia' describes high blood sugar levels, while 'leukaemia' refers to a type of blood cancer. The term helps categorize and specify conditions for accurate diagnosis and treatment. It is primarily used in professional medical communication and scientific studies, not casual contexts.
Alternatives
Instead of using '-aemia,' you can describe conditions more generally, such as 'low red blood cell count' for anaemia or 'high blood sugar levels' for hyperglycaemia. These simpler terms are useful in non-medical contexts or for general audiences.
Writing
In medical or scientific writing, '-aemia' terms should be clearly defined for readers unfamiliar with medical jargon. Always pair the term with a brief explanation when used in public-facing materials. Accurate spelling and context are crucial, as many '-aemia' terms describe specific and potentially serious conditions.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, it's better to avoid the suffix '-aemia' and use more common terms like 'low blood cells' or 'high blood sugar.' This ensures better understanding, especially among non-medical audiences.
Etymology
The suffix '-aemia' comes from the Greek word 'haima,' meaning blood. Its adoption into English medical terminology dates back to the 19th century. The British English form '-aemia' differs from the American English '-emia,' reflecting regional spelling variations. It underscores the importance of precision in medical language, helping to communicate complex conditions succinctly and effectively.