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Endocrine and Reproductive prefixes
Endocrine and Reproductive prefixes
21
Medical
Not Applicable
10/12/2025

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Term
eu-: Good, normal
Definition

Example: Euthyroid:

A state in which the thyroid gland functions normally, producing the right levels of thyroid hormones necessary for metabolism and growth.

Term
hyper-: Above, excessive
Definition
Example: Hyperthyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and nervousness
Term
hypo-: Below, under, deficient
Definition
Example: Hypoglycemia: A condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, often causing symptoms such as dizziness, shakiness, and confusion.
Term
oxy-: Rapid, sharp, acid
Definition
Example: Oxytocin: A hormone released by the pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth and the release of milk during breastfeeding.
Term
pan-: All, total 
Definition
Example: Panhypopituitarism: A condition in which the pituitary gland fails to produce or secretes all of its hormones, leading to a wide range of endocrine dysfunctions.
Term
para-: Around, beside, beyond, abnormal 
Definition
Example: Parathyroid: Small glands located beside the thyroid gland, responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism.
Term
poly-: Many or much 
Definition
Example: Polyuria: Excessive urination, a common symptom of diabetes mellitus due to high blood sugar levels affecting kidney function.
Term
syn-: Joined, together
Definition
Example: Synergistic hormones: Hormones that work together to amplify their effects, such as insulin and growth hormone in promoting cell growth.
Term
tetr-: Four 
Definition
Example: Tetralogy of Fallot: A condition involving four congenital heart defects that may indirectly affect endocrine function due to oxygenation issues.
Term
tri-: Three
Definition
Example: Triiodothyronine (T3): A thyroid hormone that contains three iodine atoms and plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and energy levels.
Term

(REPRODUCTIVE)

a-: Absence of, without

Definition
Example Azoospermia: The absence of sperm in semen, which can cause male infertility and may result from blockages or testicular failure.
Term
an-: Absence of, without 
Definition
Example Anovulation: The absence of ovulation, often leading to infertility and irregular menstrual cycles, commonly caused by hormonal imbalances or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Term
dys-: Painful, difficult 
Definition
Example Dysmenorrhea – Painful menstrual cramps, often caused by uterine contractions or underlying conditions like endometriosis.
Term
endo-: Within 
Definition
Example Endometritis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), often caused by infection or retained tissue after childbirth or miscarriage.
Term
epi-: Above
Definition
Example Epidural: Pertaining to the area upon or above the dura mater of the spinal cord, commonly referring to a type of anesthesia used during childbirth to provide pain relief while allowing the patient to remain awake and alert.
Term
hyper-: Above, excessive
Definition
Example Hypergonadism: A condition characterized by excessive activity of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females), leading to overproduction of sex hormones, which can result in early puberty, menstrual irregularities, or fertility issues.
Term
hypo-: Below
Definition
Example Hypogonadism: Reduced function of the gonads (testes or ovaries), leading to decreased hormone production and issues like infertility or delayed puberty.
Term
oligo-: Small amount
Definition
Example Oligospermia: A condition characterized by a low sperm count in semen, often contributing to male infertility.
Term
par-: Near
Definition
Example Parovarian cyst: A fluid-filled cyst near the ovary, usually arising from the remnants of embryonic structures.
Term
peri-: Surrounding
Definition
Example: Perimetrium: The outermost layer of the uterus, surrounding the uterine wall and providing structural support.
Term
trans-: Through, across, beyond
Definition
Example Transvaginal ultrasound: An imaging procedure where a probe is inserted through the vaginal canal to obtain detailed images of reproductive organs like the uterus and ovaries.
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