In medical terminology, what does the suffix "-lepsy" refer to?

The suffix "-lepsy" specifically refers to seizures or conditions involving seizures in medical terminology. It is derived from the Greek word "lepsis," which means a seizure or attack. This suffix is commonly used in terms like "epilepsy," which denotes a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Understanding the meaning of this suffix allows healthcare professionals to accurately describe and categorize various seizure-related conditions, enhancing communication and clarity in patient care. The other options represent different medical concepts: swelling is indicated by "-edema," deficiency is denoted by "-penia," and inflammation is linked with "-itis." Each of these suffixes has distinct meanings that do not relate to seizures directly.