The suffix -osis indicates which meaning?

• A. Inflammation
• B. Pain
• C. Growth
• D. Condition

Answer: (D)

The suffix -osis signals a condition or abnormal state, often a disease process. It names the situation rather than a specific symptom or action. For example, cirrhosis describes a diseased, scarred liver; osteoporosis describes a condition of weakened, porous bones; neurosis refers to an abnormal mental state. In contrast, inflammation is signaled by -itis, pain by -algia, and growth by terms like -plasty or -trophy, so -osis best fits the idea of a condition.