What does the suffix "-osis" generally indicate?

The suffix "-osis" is commonly used in medical terminology to signify an abnormal condition or process. It typically indicates a disease, disorder, or pathological state. For example, "fibrosis" refers to an abnormal condition involving the thickening and scarring of connective tissue, while "neurosis" points to a functional disorder of the nervous system that does not necessarily have a clear physical cause.

The use of "-osis" helps healthcare professionals convey information about diseases and conditions succinctly, providing insight into the nature of the medical issue being described. This understanding is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The other potential suffixes provided do not align with the meaning of "-osis" and represent different types of conditions or processes in medical terminology.