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Which suffix is used to indicate an abnormal state?
-ectomy
-ia
-itis
-osis
The correct answer is: -ia
The suffix that indicates an abnormal state is commonly identified as “-osis.” This suffix is used in medical terminology to describe a condition that is often characterized by an abnormal increase or change in a particular function or structure, which may or may not be accompanied by disease. For example, "neurosis" refers to a psychological condition that is abnormal compared to typical mental health. The suffix “-ia” generally refers to a condition or state, but it does not specifically highlight an abnormality. It can denote a normal state as well as an abnormal one. “Ectomy” signifies the surgical removal of a part of the body and is not related to indicating an abnormal state. The suffix “-itis” refers specifically to inflammation, which is a response to injury or infection, rather than a general abnormal state. Thus, “-osis” is the most accurate suffix to indicate an abnormal state in medical terminology.