Which suffix indicates inflammation or infection in medical terminology?

The suffix that indicates inflammation or infection in medical terminology is commonly recognized as -itis. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "itis," which denotes a condition characterized by inflammation. It is used in the names of a variety of inflammatory conditions affecting different parts of the body, such as arthritis (inflammation of the joints), bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes), and appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix).

This clarity in the use of -itis helps in naming and diagnosing diseases, highlighting the inflammatory nature of the condition, which is essential for effective treatment planning and communication in the medical field. Understanding this suffix also assists healthcare professionals in recognizing patterns of diseases and their likely presentations, which is key when evaluating patients. The other suffixes given, while they denote various medical conditions and procedures, do not specifically indicate inflammation or infection, making -itis the most accurate choice for this question.