Which combining form is used for heart in medical terminology?

The combining form for heart in medical terminology is "cardi/o." This term originates from the Greek word "kardia," which means heart. In medical contexts, "cardi/o" is frequently used to form terms that relate to the heart. For example, "cardiology" refers to the study of heart diseases and conditions, while "cardiovascular" pertains to the heart and blood vessels.

The other combining forms provided refer to other body parts or systems, which is why they are not suitable for this question. "Dermat/o" is associated with the skin, "cerebr/o" pertains to the brain's cerebrum, and "encephal/o" refers to the entire brain, illustrating their distinct anatomical focus that does not relate to the heart. Understanding these specific prefixes and combining forms is essential in the field of medical terminology, as they provide clarity in describing various medical conditions and procedures associated with different organs.