Painful, abnormal, difficult, labored.

Example: Dyspepsia – Difficult or painful digestion, often referred to as indigestion, characterized by symptoms like bloating, nausea, or heartburn.

Within, in

Example: Endogastric – A term referring to something occurring within the stomach, such as an endogastric procedure that involves accessing the interior of the stomach for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Half

Example: Hemigastrectomy – Surgical removal of half of the stomach, typically performed to treat severe ulcers or stomach cancer.

Excessive or above normal

Example: Hypergastrinemia – A condition involving excessive levels of gastrin (a digestive hormone) in the blood, which can lead to overproduction of stomach acid and conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Below normal or deficient

Example: Hypoglycemia – A condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, often causing symptoms like dizziness, weakness, and confusion, and requiring prompt treatment with glucose.

Bad or poor

Example: Malabsorption – Poor absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract, which can result from conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or chronic pancreatitis, leading to malnutrition.

Beside, near, or abnormal

Example: Paracolitis – Inflammation occurring near or adjacent to the colon, often associated with diverticulitis or infections.

Around or surrounding

Example: Perigastric – Pertaining to the area around the stomach, often used to describe inflammation, abscesses, or surgical observations in this region.

Under, below

Example: Sublingual – Situated under the tongue, often referring to medications that dissolve beneath the tongue for quick absorption.

Across or through

Example: Transgastric – Referring to procedures or conditions that occur through the stomach, such as a transgastric endoscopic procedure used for accessing abdominal organs.

Digestive System Prefixes

Digestive System Suffixes

A suffix is a word part added to the end of a medical term that describes a condition, disease, procedure, or part of speech. It helps define what is happening to or being done to the subject of the word. 

Pertaining to

Example: Celiac – Pertaining to the abdomen, often used in conditions like celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten damages the small intestine.

Pertaining to

Example: Colorectal – Pertaining to the colon and rectum, often used in the context of colorectal cancer or surgeries.

Hernia, protrusion

Example: Gastrocele – A hernia of the stomach, often resulting from a weakness in the diaphragm or abdominal wall.

Surgical puncture to aspirate fluid

Example: Paracentesis – A procedure involving the surgical puncture of the abdomen to remove excess fluid, commonly performed in cases of ascites.

 Pertaining to

Example: Esophageal – Pertaining to the esophagus, such as in esophageal reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.

Excision Example:

Appendectomy – Surgical removal of the appendix, often performed in cases of appendicitis.

The record, radiographic image Example:

Cholangiogram – A radiographic image of the bile ducts obtained using contrast material, often performed during Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to assess blockages or other abnormalities in the bile ducts.

Process of recording Example:

Electrogastrography – The process of recording the electrical activity of the stomach to assess its motility and function, often used to diagnose conditions like gastroparesis or dyspepsia..

Condition of, diseased state, abnormal state Example:

Dyspepsia – A condition of impaired digestion, often characterized by bloating, discomfort, and nausea.

Condition Example:

Cholelithiasis – A condition involving the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder, which can cause pain and blockages.

Pertaining to Example:

Hepatic – Pertaining to the liver, as in hepatic function tests, which evaluate liver health.

Inflammation Example:

Gastritis – Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infections, medications, or alcohol use.

Specialist who studies and treats Example:

Gastroenterologist – A specialist who diagnoses and treats disorders of the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, and liver.

Study of Example:

Hepatology – The study of the liver, including diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.

-malacia

 Softening Example:

Esophagomalacia – Softening of the esophageal walls, often caused by chronic acid reflux (GERD), prolonged inflammation, or structural weakness, which may lead to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or esophageal collapse.

Enlargement Example:

Hepatomegaly – Enlargement of the liver, which can occur in conditions like fatty liver disease or hepatitis.

Tumor Example:

Gastrinoma – A tumor that secretes gastrin, often associated with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, leading to excessive stomach acid production.

Abnormal condition Example:

Diverticulosis – A condition where small pouches form in the colon wall, which can become inflamed (diverticulitis).

Disease Example:

Gastropathy – A disease of the stomach, often referring to damage caused by chronic use of NSAIDs or alcohol.

 Eating or swallowing Example:

Dysphagia – Difficulty swallowing, which can result from conditions affecting the esophagus or nervous system.

Surgical repair Example:

Pyloroplasty – Surgical repair or widening of the pyloric sphincter to improve the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine.

 Prolapse, drooping Example:

Gastroptosis – Prolapse or downward displacement of the stomach, often caused by weakened abdominal muscles.

Suturing, repairing Example:

Herniorrhaphy – Surgical repair of a hernia, often performed to reinforce the abdominal wall.

Flow, discharge Example:

Diarrhea – Frequent, watery bowel movements, often caused by infections, medications, or food intolerances.

Instrument used for visualization Example:

Colonoscope – An instrument used to visualize the interior of the colon during a colonoscopy.

Process of viewing, visualization Example:

Endoscopy – The process of visualizing the digestive tract using a flexible tube with a camera.

Creation of an artificial opening Example:

Colostomy – A surgical procedure to create an opening from the colon to the abdominal surface for waste elimination.

Incision, cut into Example:

Laparotomy – A surgical incision into the abdominal cavity, often performed to diagnose or treat abdominal conditions.

Digestive System Word Roots (In Combining Form)

A word root is the core part of a medical term that provides its primary meaning, usually referring to a body part or system. It forms the foundation to which prefixes and suffixes are added.

Abdomen, abdominal Example:

Abdominoplasty – Surgical repair or reconstruction of the abdomen, often referred to as a "tummy tuck."

Anus Example:

Anoplasty – Surgical repair of the anus, often performed to treat congenital defects or damage caused by trauma.

Antrum Example:

Antrectomy – Surgical removal of the antrum, a part of the stomach, often done to treat ulcers or cancer.

Appendix Example:

Appendectomy – Surgical removal of the appendix, typically performed in cases of appendicitis.

Appendix Example:

Appendicitis – Inflammation of the appendix, often causing abdominal pain and requiring surgical intervention.

Cecum Example:

Cecopexy – Surgical fixation of the cecum, often performed to correct volvulus (twisting of the bowel).

Abdomen, abdominal cavity Example:

Celiotomy – Surgical incision into the abdominal cavity, often performed to explore or treat abdominal conditions.

 Lip Example:

Cheilitis – Inflammation of the lips, often caused by irritation, infection, or nutritional deficiencies.

Gall, bile Example:

Cholecystitis – Inflammation of the gallbladder, commonly caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts.

Common bile duct Example:

Choledocholithiasis – The presence of stones in the common bile duct, often requiring removal to restore bile flow.

Colon Example:

Colitis – Inflammation of the colon, which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramping.

Intestine Example:

Enteritis – Inflammation of the intestines, often caused by infection or irritants.

Esophagus Example:

Esophagitis – Inflammation of the esophagus, often resulting from acid reflux or infections.

Stomach Example:

Gastrectomy – Surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, typically to treat ulcers, cancer, or severe obesity.

Gum Example:

Gingivitis – Inflammation of the gums, often caused by poor oral hygiene or bacterial infection.

Tongue Example:

Glossitis is inflammation of the tongue that can cause swelling, redness, and pain. It is often caused by infections or nutritional deficiencies.

Digestive System Word Roots (In Combining Form) Continued

Digestive System Word Roots (In Combining Form) Continued

 Liver Example:

Hepatomegaly – Enlargement of the liver, often caused by infections, fatty liver disease, or cancer.

Hernia, protrusion of an organ through a membrane or cavity wall Example:

Herniorrhaphy – Surgical repair of a hernia to reposition the protruding organ and strengthen the surrounding tissue.

 Abdomen, abdominal cavity Example:

Laparoscopy – A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to view and treat abdominal or pelvic conditions.

 Tongue Example:

Sublingual – Situated under the tongue, often referring to the administration of medications for rapid absorption.

 Mouth Example:

Oral – Pertaining to the mouth, such as in oral hygiene practices.

Palate Example:

Palatoplasty – Surgical repair of the palate, often performed to correct cleft palate deformities.

Pancreas Example:

Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption.

Peritoneum Example:

Peritonitis – Inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity, often caused by infection or perforation.

Polyp, small growth Example:

Polypectomy – Surgical removal of a polyp, often performed during a colonoscopy to prevent cancer development.

Rectum Example:

Proctitis – Inflammation of the rectum, which can cause discomfort, bleeding, and urgency.

Pylorus, pyloric sphincter Example:

Pyloroplasty – Surgical repair of the pyloric sphincter to improve food passage from the stomach to the small intestine.

Rectum Example:

Rectocele – A bulging of the rectum into the vaginal wall, often caused by weakening of pelvic floor muscles.

Saliva, salivary gland Example:

Sialadenitis – Inflammation of a salivary gland, often caused by bacterial infections or blockages.

Fat Example:

Steatorrhea – Excess fat in stool, often a sign of malabsorption disorders like celiac disease or chronic pancreatitis.

Mouth Example:

Stomatitis – Inflammation of the mouth, which can result from infections, irritants, or systemic diseases.

Uvula Example:

Uvulectomy – Surgical removal of the uvula, often performed to treat snoring or sleep apnea.

Dryness Example:

Xerostomia – Dryness of the mouth caused by reduced saliva production, often associated with certain medications or medical conditions.

Digestive System Abbreviations,

Acronyms and Eponyms

An abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase used for convenience, often consisting of initial letters or a shortened version of the full term (e.g., "BP" for blood pressure).

An acronym is a specific type of abbreviation formed from the initial letters of a series of words and pronounced as a single word (e.g., "LASIK" for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis).

An eponym is a medical term derived from the name of a person—often a researcher, physician, or patient—associated with a condition, discovery, or procedure (e.g., "Alzheimer’s disease").

BMI = Body Mass Index

• A measurement of body fat based on height and weight, used to assess whether an individual is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

EGD = Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

• A diagnostic procedure in which a flexible endoscope is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum).

FTT = Failure to Thrive

• A condition in infants or children characterized by insufficient weight gain or growth, often caused by inadequate nutrition or underlying medical conditions.

GERD = Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

• A chronic condition in which stomach acid or bile flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

GI = Gastrointestinal

• Referring to the digestive system, which includes the stomach, intestines, and associated organs involved in digestion and nutrient absorption.

IH = Inguinal Hernia

• A condition in which a portion of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, causing a bulge in the groin.

IBD = Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• A group of chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, primarily including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

IBS = Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• A common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or both).

NG Tube = Nasogastric Tube

• A tube inserted through the nose into the stomach, used for feeding, administering medications, or draining stomach contents.

NAFLD = Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

• A condition characterized by excess fat accumulation in the liver not caused by alcohol consumption, often associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

PUD = Peptic Ulcer Disease

• A condition characterized by open sores or ulcers in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, often caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or the use of NSAIDs.

PN = Parenteral Nutrition

• A method of providing nutrition intravenously, bypassing the digestive tract, often used in patients with severe gastrointestinal conditions or after surgery.

UC = Ulcerative Colitis

• A form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

Brunner’s Glands

• Named After:Johann Conrad Brunner, a Swiss anatomist. Glands in the duodenum that secrete alkaline mucus to protect the intestinal lining. These glands help neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine, playing a key role in preventing damage to the intestinal mucosa.

Crohn’s Disease

• Named After: Burrill Crohn, an American gastroenterologist.
• A chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, often affecting the ileum and colon. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Gilbert’s Syndrome

• Named After: Augustin Nicolas Gilbert, a French physician.
• A hereditary liver disorder resulting in mildly elevated bilirubin levels, typically without significant symptoms. It is often detected incidentally during routine blood tests and is usually benign.

Whipple Procedure

• Named After: Allen Whipple, an American surgeon.

A complex surgical procedure that involves removing the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, the gallbladder, and the bile duct. It is performed primarily to treat pancreatic cancer or other diseases affecting the pancreas and nearby organs. The full name of this procedure is pancreaticoduodenectomy (pancreatic/o = pancreas, duoden/o = duodenum (first part of the small intestine), -ectomy = surgical removal).

Urinary System Prefixes

Without, lack of Example:

Anuria – The absence of urine production, often indicating kidney failure or severe dehydration, requiring immediate medical evaluation and treatment.

Through, complete Example:

Dialysis is a medical procedure that removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer function properly.

Difficult, painful, or abnormal Example:

Dysuria – Painful or difficult urination, often caused by urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, or other underlying conditions.

Excessive, above normal Example:

Hyperuricemia – Excessive levels of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to conditions such as gout or kidney stones if untreated.

Below normal, deficient Example:

Hyposthenuria – The excretion of excessively dilute urine due to the kidneys' inability to concentrate it properly, often associated with conditions like diabetes insipidus or chronic kidney disease.

Many, excessive Example:

Polyuria – Excessive urine output, commonly associated with conditions like diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus, often leading to dehydration if untreated.

Night Example:

Nocturia – Frequent urination at night, which can disrupt sleep and may result from conditions like overactive bladder, urinary tract infections, or heart failure.

 Few or scanty Example:

Oliguria – Scanty urine output, often a sign of kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or shock, requiring urgent medical attention.

Urinary System Suffixes

Pertaining to Example:

Renal – Pertaining to the kidneys, as in renal function, which refers to how well the kidneys filter waste from the blood.

Pertaining to Example:

Urinary – Pertaining to urine or the urinary system, such as in urinary tract infection (UTI), which affects the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra.

Hernia, protrusion Example:

Cystocele – A herniation of the bladder into the vaginal wall, often caused by weakened pelvic muscles.

In the blood Example:

Uremia – A buildup of urea and other waste products in the blood due to kidney dysfunction, often requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.

 Condition Example:

Diuresis – A condition of increased or excessive production of urine, often induced by medications like diuretics.

The recorded radiographic image Example:

Urogram – A radiographic image of the urinary tract, used to identify blockages, stones, or other abnormalities.

Instrument used to record Example:

Cystograph – An instrument used to record images of the bladder, often during a cystography procedure.

Process of recording, radiographic imaging Example:

Pyelography – The process of obtaining X-ray images of the renal pelvis and ureters, often using contrast dye.

 Condition Example:

Nephrolithiasis – A condition characterized by the presence of kidney stones, which can cause pain and urinary obstruction.

Inflammation Example:

Cystitis – Inflammation of the bladder, often caused by bacterial infections and characterized by pain and frequent urination.

Stone Example:

Urolith – A stone in the urinary tract, which may form in the kidneys, bladder, or ureters.

Loosening, dissolution, separating Example:

Hemodialysis – A procedure that separates waste products from the blood when the kidneys are unable to perform this function.

Enlarged, enlargement Example:

Nephromegaly – Enlargement of the kidneys, which may occur due to hydronephrosis or other conditions affecting the renal system.

Tumor, swelling Example:

Nephroma – A tumor of the kidney, which may be benign or malignant.

Abnormal condition Example:

Hydronephrosis – An abnormal condition characterized by the swelling of the kidney due to a buildup of urine.

Surgical fixation, suspension Example:

Nephropexy – Surgical fixation of a floating or mobile kidney to its normal anatomical position

Drooping, sagging, prolapse Example:

Nephroptosis – Drooping or displacement of the kidney, which may cause urinary obstruction or pain.

Suturing, repairing Example:

Cystorrhaphy – Surgical suturing of the bladder, often performed to repair tears or injuries.

Instrument used for visual examination Example:

Cystoscope – An instrument used to visually examine the bladder and urethra during a cystoscopy.

Pertaining to visual examination Example:

Urethroscopic – Pertaining to the visual examination of the urethra, often to diagnose strictures or obstructions.

Visual examination Example:

Cystoscopy – The visual examination of the bladder and urethra using a cystoscope to identify abnormalities or perform treatments.

Creation of an artificial opening Example:

Urostomy – A surgical procedure creating an artificial opening in the abdominal wall to divert urine from the bladder.

Cut into, incision Example:

Nephrotomy – A surgical incision into the kidney, often performed to remove kidney stones or treat other abnormalities.

Surgical crushing Example:

Lithotripsy – A procedure that uses shock waves to crush kidney stones into smaller pieces for easier passage through the urinary tract.

Urine, urination Example:

Hematuria – The presence of blood in the urine, often indicating infections, stones, or more serious conditions like bladder cancer.

Urinary System Word Roots (In Combining Form)

Albumin Example:

Albuminuria – The presence of albumin (a type of protein) in the urine, often a sign of kidney damage or disease, such as nephrotic syndrome.

Urea, nitrogen Example:

Azotemia – An elevated level of urea and other nitrogenous waste products in the blood, typically resulting from kidney dysfunction.

Developing cell, germ cell Example:

Nephroblastoma – A cancerous tumor of the kidney that arises from immature kidney cells, also known as Wilms tumor, commonly found in children.

Bladder, sac Example:

Cystitis – Inflammation of the urinary bladder, often caused by bacterial infection, leading to frequent and painful urination.

Glomerulus Example:

Glomerulonephritis – Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney dysfunction or failure.

Sugar Example:

Hyperglycosuria – Excess sugar in the urine, commonly associated with uncontrolled diabetes or kidney filtration issues.

Water Example:

Hydronephrosis – The swelling of a kidney due to a buildup of urine caused by obstruction in the urinary tract.

Stone, calculus Example:

Nephrolithiasis – The formation or presence of kidney stones, often causing severe pain and urinary obstruction.

Kidney Example:

Nephrectomy – Surgical removal of a kidney, often performed due to cancer, trauma, or severe infection.

Night Example:

Nocturnal Enuresis – Involuntary urination during sleep, commonly known as bedwetting. This condition is most often seen in children, but it can also occur in adults due to medical issues such as diabetes, bladder dysfunction, or neurological disorders.

Pus Example:

Pyuria – The presence of pus in the urine, indicating a urinary tract infection or kidney infection.

Renal pelvis Example:

Pyelitis – Inflammation of the renal pelvis, often caused by bacterial infections ascending from the bladder.

Kidney Example:

Renal failure – The inability of the kidneys to filter waste products and balance fluids and electrolytes in the body.

Urine, urinary tract Example:

Urology – The branch of medicine focused on the study and treatment of urinary tract diseases and disorders.

Ureter Example:

Ureteroplasty – Surgical repair of a ureter to correct blockages or structural abnormalities.

 Urethra Example:

Urethritis – Inflammation of the urethra, often caused by bacterial infection or sexually transmitted infections.

Bladder, sac Example:

Vesicoureteral reflux – A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters, increasing the risk of kidney infections and damage.

• A sudden loss of kidney function, leading to the accumulation of waste products in the blood and an imbalance of electrolytes. It is often reversible with prompt treatment.
•  BPH = Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Bowman’s Capsule

• Named After: Sir William Bowman, an English surgeon.

• Henle’s Loop
• Named After: Friedrich Gustav Jakob Henle, a German anatomist.

• The U-shaped portion of the nephron, crucial for concentrating urine by creating a gradient in the kidney's medulla. It plays a key role in water and salt reabsorption, maintaining the body’s electrolyte balance.

Common Musculoskeletal System Prefixes

Absence of, without

Example: Atrophy – Wasting away or reduction in muscle size due to lack of use, often resulting from prolonged immobility, nerve damage, or muscle disease.

Away from

Example: Abduction – Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body, such as raising the arm or leg to the side, common in physical therapy and exercise routines.

Toward

Example: Adduction – Movement of a limb toward the midline of the body, such as bringing the arm or leg back to its resting position after abduction.

Slow

Example: Bradykinesia – Slowness of movement, often a symptom of neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, affecting motor function and coordination.

Painful, difficult, abnormal, labored

Example: Dystonia – A condition characterized by abnormal muscle tone or involuntary muscle contractions, which can lead to repetitive movements, abnormal postures, and impaired function.

Above, excessive

Example: Hypertonia – Excessive muscle tone, resulting in stiffness or rigidity, commonly seen in conditions like cerebral palsy or stroke.

Between

Example: Intervertebral disc – A fibrocartilaginous structure located between the vertebrae of the spine, providing cushioning and flexibility

Within, in

Example: Intramuscular injection – An injection administered directly into a muscle, commonly used for vaccines or medication delivery.

Many, much

Example: Polydactyly – A congenital condition characterized by having more than the normal number of fingers or toes, which may require surgical correction for functional or cosmetic reasons.

Below, under

Example: Subscapularis muscle – A muscle located below the scapula (shoulder blade), playing a key role in shoulder rotation and stabilization.

Above

Example: Suprapatellar – Refers to the area above the patella (kneecap), commonly associated with the suprapatellar bursa, which reduces friction and allows smooth movement of the quadriceps tendon over the femur.

Together, joined

Example: Symphysis pubis – A cartilaginous joint where the two pubic bones meet in the pelvis, allowing slight movement for childbirth and pelvic flexibility.

Together, joined

Example: Synarthrosis – A type of immovable joint where bones are joined together, such as in the skull, providing stability and protection to vital organs.

Suffixes for the Musculoskeletal System

Pertaining to

Example:

Femoral – Pertaining to the femur, the largest bone in the body, located in the thigh.

Pain

Example:

Myalgia – Pain in a muscle, often caused by overuse, injury, or systemic conditions like fibromyalgia.

Pertaining to

Example:

Patellar – Pertaining to the kneecap (patella), a small bone that protects the knee joint and assists in movement.

Weakness

Example:

Myasthenia – Muscle weakness, commonly associated with conditions like myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disorder affecting neuromuscular function.

Surgical puncture to aspirate fluid

Example:

Arthrocentesis – Surgical puncture of a joint to remove fluid for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, often used to relieve swelling or analyze joint conditions.

Break

Example:

Osteoclasia – Surgical breaking of bone tissue to correct deformities or aid in the healing process in severe cases.

Break

Example:

Osteoclast – A specialized bone cell that breaks down bone tissue during bone remodeling and repair.

Surgical fixation, fusion

Example:

Arthrodesis – Surgical fusion of a joint to provide stability and reduce pain, often used for severe arthritis.

Excision, surgical removal, cutting out

Example:

Tenectomy – Surgical removal of part of a tendon, often performed to treat chronic tendon inflammation or injury.

The record, radiographic image

Example:

Myogram – A record of muscle contraction activity, often used to diagnose neuromuscular disorders.

Process of recording, radiographic imaging

Example:

Arthrography – Imaging of a joint using contrast dye to assess joint structures such as cartilage, ligaments, and bones.

Pertaining to

Example:

Thoracic – Pertaining to the thorax (chest), which houses the lungs, heart, and other vital structures.

Inflammation

Example:

Myositis – Inflammation of muscle tissue, which infections, autoimmune disorders, or trauma can cause.

Loosening, separating, dissolution

Example:

Osteolysis – Destruction or dissolution of bone tissue, often seen in conditions like bone metastasis or infection.

Softening

Example:

Chondromalacia – Softening of cartilage, particularly in the knee, leading to pain and difficulty with movement.

Resembling

Example:

Myeloid – Resembling bone marrow, often used to describe cells or tissues related to hematopoiesis.

Tumor

Example:

Rhabdomyoma – A benign tumor of muscle tissue, typically found in the heart or skeletal muscles.

Abnormal condition

Example:

Scoliosis – Abnormal curvature of the spine, which can cause back pain, reduced mobility, and postural issues.

Abnormal reduction

Example:

Sarcopenia – Loss of muscle mass and strength, often associated with aging, inactivity, or poor nutrition.

Growth

Example:

Epiphysis – The growth end of a long bone, critical during childhood and adolescence for bone elongation.

Surgical repair

Example:

Myoplasty – Surgical repair or reconstruction of damaged or weakened muscle tissue.

Suturing, repairing

Example:

Tenorrhaphy – Suturing of a torn or severed tendon to restore function and stability.

Malignant tumor

Example:

Osteosarcoma – A malignant bone tumor commonly affecting children and young adults, requiring surgical and medical treatment.

Process of viewing, visual examination

Example:

Arthroscopy – Visual examination of a joint using a specialized instrument to diagnose and treat joint conditions.

Incision, cut into

Example:

Myotomy – Surgical incision into a muscle, often performed to relieve tightness or treat muscle disorders.

Nourishment, development

Example:

Hypertrophy – Excessive development of tissue or an organ, commonly referring to increased muscle size due to exercise or compensatory growth.

Musculoskeletal System Word Roots

Stiff, bent

Example:

Ankylosis - Abnormal stiffening and immobility of a joint due to fusion of the bones, often caused by injury or disease.

Joint

Example:

Arthritis – Inflammation of a joint, often resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can be caused by aging, autoimmune disorders, or injury.

Carpals, wrist

Example:

Carpectomy - Surgical removal of a carpal bone, typically performed to relieve pain or improve wrist function.

Cartilage

Example:

Chondromalacia - Softening of cartilage, commonly affecting the knee and leading to pain and swelling during movement.

Clavicle, collarbone

Example:

Clavicectomy - Excision of the clavicle, usually performed to treat severe fractures or chronic pain.

Ribs

Example:

Costochondritis – Inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum, causing localized chest pain that can mimic heart-related conditions.

Cranium

Example:

Craniotomy - Surgical incision into the cranium to access the brain for procedures such as tumor removal or trauma management.

Electricity; electrical activity

Example:

Electromyography - A diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of muscles to detect neuromuscular disorders.

Fascia

Example:

Fasciotomy - A surgical incision into fascia to relieve tension or pressure, often used to treat compartment syndrome.

Fibrous connective tissue

Example:

Fibromyalgia - A condition characterized by widespread pain in fibrous tissues and muscles, often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances.

Movement, motion

Example:

Kinesiology - The study of movement and how the body’s muscles, bones, and joints work together to produce motion.

Increased convexity of the spine

Example:

Kyphosis - Excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunched posture, commonly seen in older adults.

Lamina (thin, flat plate or layer)

Example:

Laminectomy - Surgical removal of a portion of the vertebral lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Smooth (visceral) muscle that lines the walls of internal organs

Example:

Leiomyoma - A benign tumor of smooth muscle, often found in the uterus, where it is commonly referred to as a fibroid.

Bent forward, increased concavity of the spine

Example:

Lordosis - Excessive inward curvature of the spine, commonly affecting the lower back and sometimes leading to pain.

Loin, lumbar region of the spine

Example:

Lumbodynia - Pain in the lumbar region, often caused by muscle strain, injury, or degenerative conditions.

Mandible, lower jaw bone

Example:

Mandibular - Pertaining to the mandible, the largest and strongest bone of the face that holds the lower teeth.

Maxilla, upper jaw bone

Example:

Maxillofacial - Pertaining to the maxilla and face, often referring to surgeries or treatments involving the upper jaw and facial structures.

Meniscus, crescent

Example:

Meniscectomy - Surgical removal of a meniscus, typically done to repair damage from injury or degeneration in the knee joint.

Musculoskeletal System Word Roots Continued

Muscle

Example:

Myopathy – Any disease of the muscle, often resulting in weakness, pain, or dysfunction, such as in muscular dystrophy or inflammatory myopathies.

Marrow (bone), spinal cord

Example:

Myelitis – Inflammation of the spinal cord or bone marrow, which can cause neurological symptoms, weakness, or immune system dysfunction.

Bone

Example:

Osteoporosis – A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, leading to brittle bones and an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.

Patella, kneecap

Example:

Patellar – Pertaining to the kneecap, a small bone that protects the knee joint and facilitates leg extension.

Pelvis, pelvic bone

Example:

Pelvimetry – Measurement of the dimensions of the pelvis, often used in obstetrics to assess the feasibility of vaginal childbirth.

Pelvis, pelvic bone

Example:

Pelvectomy – Surgical removal of part or all of the pelvis, typically performed to treat advanced cancers or severe trauma.

Stone

Example:

Petrous – Resembling stone or pertaining to the petrous part of the temporal bone, which houses the inner ear structures.

Bones of the fingers and toes

Example:

Phalangeal – Pertaining to the bones of the fingers or toes, essential for dexterity and movement.

Sole of the foot

Example:

Plantar fasciitis – Inflammation of the fascia on the sole of the foot, causing heel pain and discomfort, often due to overuse or improper footwear.

Pubis (hipbone)

Example:

Pubofemoral – Pertaining to the pubis and femur, such as the pubofemoral ligament, which supports the hip joint.

Vertebral spine, vertebral column

Example:

Rachialgia – Pain in the vertebral column, often caused by conditions like arthritis, herniated discs, or muscular strain.

Rod-shaped, striated

Example:

Rhabdomyolysis – A condition involving the breakdown of striated muscle fibers, leading to the release of muscle contents into the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney damage.

Flesh, connective tissue

Example:

Sarcoma – A malignant tumor of connective tissue such as bone, muscle, or fat, often requiring surgical and medical treatment.

Crooked, curved

Example:

Scoliosis – Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can cause back pain, posture issues, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties.

Vertebra, spine, vertebral column

Example:

Spondylitis – Inflammation of the vertebrae, often seen in conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, causing stiffness and pain in the spine.

Tarsals, ankle bones

Example:

Tarsalgia – Pain in the ankle bones, often caused by arthritis, injury, or overuse.

tendin/o, tend/o: Tendon

Example:

Tenosynovitis – Inflammation of a tendon and its surrounding synovial sheath, often caused by repetitive movement or injury.

Vertebra, spine, vertebral column

Example:

Vertebral – Pertaining to a vertebra, one of the interlocking bones that make up the spinal column, providing support and protection for the spinal cord.

Musculoskeletal System Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Eponyms

BDT = Bone Density Testing

• A diagnostic test used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and determine the strength of bones. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis and assess fracture risk. Techniques include dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

CTS = Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• A condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers, often associated with repetitive motions like typing or assembly work.

EMG = Electromyography

• A diagnostic procedure that measures the electrical activity of muscles in response to nerve stimulation. EMG is used to evaluate muscle weakness, nerve dysfunction, or neuromuscular disorders.

MD = Muscular Dystrophy

• A group of genetic disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Types of muscular dystrophy include Duchenne muscular dystrophy (most common) and Becker muscular dystrophy, among others.

MG = Myasthenia Gravis

• A chronic autoimmune disorder that disrupts communication between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness. Symptoms often include drooping eyelids (ptosis), difficulty swallowing, and fatigue with activity.

OA = Osteoarthritis

• A degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage within joints. Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA primarily affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine.

OP = Osteoporosis

• A condition characterized by a decrease in bone density, making bones weak, brittle, and more prone to fractures. It often affects older adults, especially postmenopausal women, due to reduced levels of estrogen.

OT = Occupational Therapy

• A therapeutic approach focused on enabling individuals to perform meaningful daily activities and tasks despite injury, illness, or disability. OT helps patients regain independence in activities of daily living and adapt to physical or cognitive limitations.

PKR = Partial Knee Replacement

• A surgical procedure in which only the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis. PKR is an alternative to total knee replacement for patients with localized arthritis in one compartment of the knee.

PMR = Polymyalgia Rheumatica

• An inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and hips. PMR is more common in older adults and is often associated with systemic inflammation, such as in giant cell arteritis.

RA = Rheumatoid Arthritis

• A chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformities. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA often affects smaller joints and can involve systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever.

ROM = Range of Motion

• The extent of movement a joint or muscle can achieve in various directions. It is often assessed in physical therapy, injury evaluation, or post-surgery rehabilitation to determine joint health or progress of recovery

RSD = Repetitive Stress Disorder

• Definition: A condition caused by repetitive motion or overuse of muscles, tendons, or nerves, leading to pain, inflammation, or injury. Common examples include tennis elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome.

THR = Total Hip Replacement

• Definition: A surgical procedure in which the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. THR is often performed for severe arthritis or hip fractures, restoring function and relieving pain.

TKR = Total Knee Replacement

• Definition: A surgical procedure in which the entire knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis. TKR is used to treat severe arthritis or joint damage that significantly impacts mobility and quality of life.

Achilles Tendon

• Named After: Achilles, a hero of Greek mythology.

The tendon that connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus). It plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping. Frequently injured in sports, leading to conditions such as Achilles tendinitis or ruptures.

Paget's Disease of Bone

• Named After: Sir James Paget, a British surgeon.

A chronic bone disorder causing abnormal bone remodeling, leading to weakened, enlarged, and deformed bones. It commonly affects the pelvis, skull, spine, and legs. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent fractures and manage symptoms.

Baker's Cyst

• Named After: William Morrant Baker, a British surgeon.

A fluid-filled sac located behind the knee, often resulting from joint inflammation or conditions like arthritis. A Baker’s cyst is common in patients with osteoarthritis or knee injuries. It can cause swelling, discomfort, and limited knee movement.

Erb’s Palsy

• Named After: Wilhelm Heinrich Erb, a German neurologist.

A condition caused by injury to the brachial plexus, often during birth or trauma. It leads to weakness or paralysis in the shoulder and elbow muscles. Early diagnosis and intervention through physical therapy are essential for improving outcomes in affected individuals.