Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What does the suffix "-lysis" mean?

1. Disease

2. Around

3. Excessive flow

4. Destruction of

The correct answer is: Destruction of

The suffix "-lysis" is derived from the Greek word "lysis," which means to break down or dissolve. In medical terminology, it typically refers to the destruction or breakdown of cells, tissues, or other components of the body. This concept is important in various medical contexts, such as referring to the lysis of blood cells in conditions like hemolysis or the breakdown of substances during certain medical treatments. Understanding this suffix helps in interpreting medical terms associated with processes that involve destruction or breakdown. For instance, terms that include "-lysis" signify a therapeutic or pathological action involving cellular degradation or disintegration. In contrast, the other choices have different meanings: "disease" pertains to conditions that affect health, "around" is often used as a prefix but does not relate to "-lysis," and "excessive flow" is typically indicated by terms like "hyperemia" or "flux." Recognizing these differences reinforces why "-lysis" specifically conveys the concept of destruction.