Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) Practice Exam

Which suffix is used to indicate "pain" in medical terminology?

1. -algia

2. -itis

3. -phobia

4. -itis/-dynia

The correct answer is: -algia

The suffix that indicates "pain" in medical terminology is -algia. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "algos," which means pain. It is commonly used in various medical terms to describe conditions associated with pain in specific areas of the body. For example, in the term "neuralgia," the suffix -algia indicates nerve pain. While other suffixes such as -itis refer to inflammation, and -phobia indicates an irrational fear, these do not specifically denote pain. The inclusion of both -itis and -dynia in one option does hint at contrasting meanings; however, the singular and primary suffix for indicating pain remains -algia. Understanding the precise meanings of these suffixes is important in interpreting medical language accurately, making -algia the correct choice in this context.