In medical terminology, what does "Lith-" indicate?

The term "Lith-" in medical terminology is derived from the Greek word "lithos," which means "stone." This prefix is commonly used to describe conditions or procedures related to stones formed in various parts of the body, such as in the kidneys (nephrolithiasis), gallbladder (cholelithiasis), or urinary tract. When you see "lith-" in a medical context, it typically indicates the presence of a solid mass or calculus, underscoring its direct association with stones. Understanding this prefix can be very useful in interpreting various medical terms that involve this concept, particularly in urology and gastroenterology.