What is the common suffix for tumor in medical terminology?

Study for the Nursing Care of the Oncology Patient Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam now!

The suffix "-oma" is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a tumor or neoplasm. This suffix is derived from Greek and specifically signifies a mass or swelling that can be benign or malignant. For example, a "lipoma" refers to a benign tumor made of fatty tissue, while "carcinoma" indicates a malignant tumor arising from epithelial tissue.

Understanding this suffix is crucial in oncology, as it helps healthcare professionals categorize different types of tumors based on their origin and nature. Recognizing the "-oma" suffix can also aid in communicating effectively about various tumors with both colleagues and patients, as well as in interpreting medical documentation and patient reports.

The other options, such as "-itis," which refers to inflammation, and "-osis," which signifies a condition or disease, do not pertain to tumors. While "-adenoma" specifically refers to a tumor of glandular origin, it is a more specific term and does not encompass the broader category of tumors that "-oma" does.

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