What does the suffix "-itis" signify in medical terms?

The suffix "-itis" is commonly used in medical terminology to denote inflammation of a particular organ or tissue. This can refer to a variety of conditions, such as arthritis (inflammation of the joints), gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines), or dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). Understanding this suffix is essential for interpreting many medical conditions, as it provides immediate insight into the nature of the pathology involved—the underlying characteristic of inflammation.

In contrast, the other options denote different medical concepts. Growth is usually associated with prefixes or other suffixes like "-oma," which indicates a tumor. Surgical removal is typically represented by suffixes such as "-ectomy." Lastly, the term for a tumor is often associated with "-oma" rather than "-itis." Thus, the presence of "-itis" clearly communicates an inflammatory process, making it a crucial part of many medical diagnoses.