Which suffix denotes break down; loosening; dissolving?

• A. -lysis
• B. -centesis
• C. -pexy
• D. -plasty

Answer: (A)

Breakdown, loosening, or dissolving is described by the suffix -lysis. It comes from Greek lysis meaning to loosen or dissolve, and it signals that a structure or substance is being broken down or separated. Examples include hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells, and dialysis, which involves separation of substances in solution. The other suffixes indicate different actions—centesis means puncturing to remove fluid, pexy means fixing an organ in place, and plasty means repairing or reconstructing by shaping tissue. So -lysis is the best fit for the idea of breaking down or dissolving.