Which medical term refers to the examination of tissue for disease?

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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 term that refers to the examination of tissue for disease is indeed "-opsy." This suffix is derived from the Greek word “opsis,” which means “view” or “sight.” When used in medical terminology, it typically pertains to the process of examining tissues or cells under a microscope to diagnose diseases or conditions. Common terms that incorporate this suffix include "biopsy" (the removal and examination of tissue to assess for disease) and "autopsy" (the examination of a body after death to determine the cause of death or disease).

Other suffixes listed in the question have different meanings. For example, "-malacia" refers to the softening of tissue, often used in terms like "chondromalacia," which indicates the softening of cartilage. The suffix "-itis" pertains to inflammation, such as in "arthritis," which means inflammation of the joints. Lastly, "-emia" relates to blood conditions, such as "anemia," which is a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin. Thus, "-opsy" is the correct choice as it accurately defines the examination or viewing of tissue to identify disease.

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