-itis
suffix
UK/ˈaɪ.tɪs/US/ˈaɪ.tɪs/
A suffix used chiefly in medical terminology to denote inflammation or disease of a particular organ or tissue (e.g., arthritis, gastritis).
Example Sentences
The suffix '-itis' indicates an inflammation-based medical condition.
Arthritis describes the inflammation of joints, derived from the prefix 'arthro-' (joint) plus '-itis.'
Gastritis signals inflammation of the stomach lining, highlighting the suffix's primary role in medical diagnosis.
A patient suffering from tonsillitis experiences inflammation of the tonsils, emphasizing the consistent use of '-itis' in naming inflamed body parts.
Dermatitis covers various skin inflammations, from mild irritations to more severe conditions.
Dentists are well-acquainted with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, where '-itis' helps pinpoint the malady.
The suffix '-itis' is widely used in clinical discussions to quickly denote inflammatory processes, underscoring the deep influence of Greek and Latin on medical nomenclature.
Whether referring to appendicitis, conjunctivitis, or bronchitis, doctors rely on '-itis' to classify and communicate specific inflammatory conditions, ensuring clarity in patient diagnosis and treatment.
How to Use
Suffix used to denote inflammation or disease of a specific part of the body.The suffix '-itis' is used in medical terminology to denote inflammation or infection of a specific body part or organ. For example, 'appendicitis' refers to inflammation of the appendix, and 'arthritis' refers to inflammation of the joints. It is commonly used in medical contexts to describe conditions involving swelling, irritation, or infection of tissues.
Alternatives
Alternatives include phrases like 'inflammation of' or 'infection of,' such as 'inflammation of the appendix' instead of 'appendicitis.' These are more explicit but less concise.
Writing
In writing, '-itis' is essential for identifying specific medical conditions, especially in formal or clinical texts. For instance, 'bronchitis' refers to inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Use it when discussing health conditions or describing diseases characterized by inflammation.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-itis' terms like 'tonsillitis' or 'gastritis' may be used when referring to common medical conditions. These words may require explanation for people unfamiliar with the specific conditions.
