Final answer:
A combining form is used to link a suffix that begins with a consonant in medical word building.
Step-by-step explanation:
In medical word building, a combining form is used to link a suffix that begins with a consonant.
For example, in the term 'cardiomyopathy,' the combining form 'cardio-' links the suffix '-myopathy.' This creates a word that describes a disease of the heart muscle.
Similarly, in the term 'dermatologist,' the combining form 'dermato-' links the suffix '-logist,' creating a word that refers to a medical professional specializing in the study of the skin.