Which of the following describes weakness in medical terminology?

• A. -emia
• B. -asthenia
• C. -algia
• D. -itis

Answer: (B)

In medical terminology, the suffix that specifically describes weakness is -asthenia. This term comes from the Greek word "astheneia," meaning lack of strength. It is commonly used in various medical conditions to indicate weakness or reduced strength in a specific body part or system, such as in "myasthenia" (muscle weakness) or "asthenopia" (eyestrain or visual fatigue).

The other terms have different meanings: -emia refers to a condition of the blood, often used to indicate the presence of a substance in the blood (such as in "anemia," which means a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin). -algia means pain, often used in terms like "neuralgia" (nerve pain) or "myalgia" (muscle pain). -itis denotes inflammation, as seen in conditions such as "appendicitis" (inflammation of the appendix) and "arthritis" (inflammation of the joints). Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the medical field for accurate diagnosis and treatment.