An Overview of Medical Prefixes and Combining Forms
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Cardiovascular Terminology
The medical prefix term dextr(o)- means “right”. Consider the following example word: dextr(o)/cardi/a. In this word breakdown: Dextr(o)- means “right”, cardi is a word root for “heart”, and -a is a noun ending suffix with no specific meaning. By definition: Dextrocardia is a congenital condition characterized by the abnormal position of the heart on the right side of the chest.
The Nervous System: Word Roots
In medical terminology, dur/o is a combining form that refers to “dura mater”. The dura mater is often called simply the dura. It is one of three layers of connective tissue that make up the meninges of the brain (pia, arachnoid, and dura). This layer surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord, and it is the outermost of the three meninges.
Muscular and Skeletal System Roots
Regarding the muscular system, in/o or fibr/o is a combining form that refers to “fiber”. In the body, fiber pertains to tissue composed of strands of long cells, for example, the fibers of muscles and nerves.
For the skeletal system, lord/o is a combining form that refers to “curve; swayback”. Known also as “swayback,” lordosis occurs when the spine bends inward too much.
Summary of Medical Terms
- dextr(o)-: means “right” (e.g., Dextrocardia).
- dur/o: refers to “dura mater” (the outermost of the three meninges).
- in/o or fibr/o: refers to “fiber” (tissue composed of strands of long cells).
- lord/o: refers to “curve; swayback” (e.g., Lordosis).