Answer:
inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The suffix "-itis" is commonly used in medical terminology to denote **inflammation**. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, irritation, or infection. When a medical term ends with "-itis," it typically indicates that a particular part of the body is experiencing inflammation.
For example:
- "Arthritis" refers to the inflammation of joints.
- "Gastritis" signifies inflammation in the stomach lining.
- "Bronchitis" is inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the respiratory system.
In medical terminology, the use of "-itis" as a suffix helps healthcare professionals quickly identify the specific condition or issue involving inflammation in various parts of the body, which is essential for diagnosis and treatment.