What does the suffix '-itis' indicate in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, the suffix '-itis' signifies inflammation of a specific part of the body. When this suffix is attached to a root word, it indicates that there is a presence of inflammatory processes, which can often result in symptoms such as swelling, redness, pain, and heat in the affected area. For example, 'arthritis' refers to inflammation of the joints, while 'dermatitis' refers to inflammation of the skin. This understanding of '-itis' helps healthcare professionals diagnose and determine treatment plans for various conditions characterized by inflammation.

The other options reflect different medical concepts. For instance, 'infection' relates to the presence and multiplication of pathogenic organisms, which may or may not involve inflammation. 'Degeneration' refers to the decline in function or structure of cells or tissues, and 'excision' indicates the surgical removal of tissue. Each of these terms represents specific processes or actions that do not encapsulate the primary meaning of inflammation associated with '-itis'.