What does the suffix "-plegia" mean?

The suffix "-plegia" specifically refers to paralysis, which is the loss of the ability to move one or more muscles. This term is commonly used in medical terminology to describe various types of paralysis, such as "hemiplegia" (paralysis of one side of the body) or "quadriplegia" (paralysis of all four limbs). Understanding this suffix is crucial for interpreting medical conditions related to movement and neuromuscular function.

The other options represent different medical concepts: "weakness" relates to reduced strength but does not imply the complete loss of movement that paralysis indicates. "Deformity" refers to a physical anomaly or malformation, and "inflammation" signifies a response of the body’s immune system to injury or infection.