The suffix -iasis denotes what kind of condition?

• A. Infection
• B. A condition, often abnormal or presence of something
• C. Inflammation
• D. Pain

Answer: (B)

The suffix -iasis signals a condition, usually abnormal, or the presence of something. It’s used to name states or diseases that arise from the presence, formation, or excessive presence of a substance, organism, or process. For example, nephrolithiasis refers to stones in the kidney, and candidiasis refers to a yeast infection caused by the presence of Candida. This is different from other suffixes: -itis denotes inflammation, -algia denotes pain, and -emia denotes a blood-related condition. So -iasis consistently points to a condition or state connected with the presence or formation of something, rather than inflammation or pain.