What does the prefix iso- mean?

• A. equal
• B. abnormal
• C. large
• D. irregular

Answer: (A)

The prefix "iso-" means "equal." This term is derived from the Greek word "isos," which translates to "equal" or "same." In medical terminology, "iso-" is commonly used to denote equality or sameness in various contexts, such as in "isotonic," where it refers to solutions that have the same osmotic pressure, indicating equal concentrations of solutes.

Understanding the meaning of prefixes like "iso-" is essential for interpreting medical terms accurately, as they often provide critical information about the nature of the concepts being described. For instance, when examining conditions or treatments, recognizing that "iso-" refers to equality can help in understanding how certain interventions or comparisons are being made.