What is the suffix used to indicate an instrument for viewing?

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Study for the Medical Terminology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Ensure exam readiness!

The suffix that indicates an instrument used for viewing is "-scope." This suffix comes from the Greek word "skopein," meaning "to look" or "to examine." Instruments that end with "-scope" are specifically designed to allow visualization of the interior of a body cavity or structure. For instance, a "microscope" is used to view small entities such as cells, while an "endoscope" is utilized for examining the interior of a hollow organ.

In contrast, the other suffixes serve different purposes. The suffix "-tomy" refers to making an incision or cutting into a part of the body, typically associated with surgical procedures. "-itis" denotes inflammation and is commonly used in the naming of conditions resulting from inflammation, like arthritis or appendicitis. Lastly, "-plasty" indicates a surgical repair or reconstruction of a body part, as seen in terms like rhinoplasty (surgical reshaping of the nose). Thus, the choice of "-scope" is specifically tied to viewing and examination, making it the correct answer.

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