Self-preparation for the test on clinical terminology
14 topics with concise breakdowns: definitions, key facts, and class questions.
This section will help you systematize your knowledge before a test. It covers key mechanisms of clinical term word-formation: from prefixation and Greek suffixes (including names of inflammatory diseases) to single term elements.
We have grouped the material by major medical fields. You will review anatomical vocabulary, collocations, and the rules for formulating clinical diagnoses. Special attention is paid to narrow-specialty topics: dental terminology, bone system vocabulary, and clinical terms in neurology and oncology. Skin coloration term elements are presented in a separate section.
During classes and credit tests, instructors most frequently require an accurate translation of clinical terms, the ability to break a word down into its constituent parts, and an explanation of their meanings. Work through this material to avoid confusion with diagnoses and to confidently construct terms of any complexity.
How is "ovum" translated and what is its dictionary form?
The female germ cell (ovum) is translated as ovum. The dictionary form is written as ovum, i n (neuter noun). The Greek term element is oo-.
What is the difference between the suffixes -itis and -osis?
The suffix -itis always denotes an acute or chronic inflammatory process (e.g., hepatitis). The suffix -osis indicates dystrophic, degenerative non-inflammatory changes or a pathological increase in cell count (e.g., hepatosis, thrombocytosis).
How is the genitive case formed from the names of inflammations?
In the genitive case (Genitivus), the suffix -itis changes to -itĭdis. For example, stomatitis becomes stomatitĭdis, and gastritis becomes gastritĭdis.
Is it permissible to combine Latin prefixes with Greek roots?
As a general rule, Latin morphemes attach to Latin ones, and Greek morphemes to Greek ones. However, exceptions exist—hybrids. For example, in the term epifascialis (suprafascial), the Greek prefix epi- combines with the Latin stem fascialis.
Why do some organs require learning two terms?
In anatomical nomenclature, Latin terms (e.g., Ventriculus, Cerebrum) and their Greek equivalents (Gaster, Encephalon) frequently coexist. Knowing both options is essential for a correct translation.
What is the difference between microgenia and micrognathia?
Microgenia denotes underdevelopment of the mandible, whereas micrognathia indicates underdevelopment of the maxilla (though sometimes the term is also used as a general term for small jaws).
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