Medical Language Module 1

These flashcards cover the key concepts and definitions learned in the Medical Language Module 1, focusing on the structure of medical terms, including prefixes, suffixes, word roots, and combining vowels.

What are the four basic parts to building medical terms?

Prefixes, Word Roots, Combining Vowel, Suffixes.

What does the combining vowel usually denote in medical terms?

It is usually the letter 'O', but can also be 'A', 'I', or 'U'.

What is the purpose of a prefix in a medical term?

Prefixes go in front of the word and modify its meaning.

What is a word root?

The main body of a word that often refers to a body part.

What is the combining form of a word root with a combining vowel?

It is the combination of the word root and the combining vowel.

Give an example of a word root. What does it represent?

'CARD' which represents 'Heart'.

What happens to the combining vowel when a suffix begins with a vowel?

The combining vowel is dropped if the suffix begins with a vowel.

What does 'GASTR/O/ITIS' illustrate about combining vowels?

The suffix 'itis' begins with a vowel, so the combining vowel 'O' is dropped.

Provide an example of a suffix and its meaning.

'-ITIS' means inflammation.

What is the significance of prefixes and suffixes in medical terminology?

They alter the meaning of the word root, adding specific context.

How is the combining vowel used before a suffix that starts with a consonant?

The combining vowel is used as needed before a suffix beginning with a consonant.

What does 'HEPAT/O/MEGALY' signify?

It indicates 'enlarged liver', demonstrating use of combining vowels and suffix.

List three examples of word roots related to body parts.

'NEPHR' (Kidney), 'NEUR' (Nerves), 'FEMOR' (Femur).

What is the definition of a combining vowel?

A vowel added between word roots to aid pronunciation.

What are two examples of prefixes and their meanings?

'ANTI-' meaning 'against', and 'DYS-' meaning 'difficult'.

Describe what a medical term is composed of.

A medical term is composed of prefixes, word roots, combining vowels, and suffixes.

What does the prefix 'SUB-' denote in medical terms?

It means 'under'.

What are combining forms?

A word root combined with a combining vowel.

Why is understanding medical terminology important?

It is crucial for clear communication in the healthcare field.