What does the suffix "-itis" indicate?

The suffix "-itis" is used in medical terminology to signify an infection or inflammation of a specific organ or tissue. For example, "arthritis" refers to inflammation of the joints, while "gastritis" indicates inflammation of the stomach lining. This suffix helps identify conditions characterized by swelling, redness, pain, and sometimes an accumulation of fluid, which are common signs of inflammation. Understanding this suffix is crucial in medical terminology as it provides insight into the nature of various diseases and conditions, allowing healthcare professionals to communicate more effectively about a patient's health status.