Lymphatic Prefixes

ana-

Up, upward or back, backward

Example: Anastomosis –a surgical connection between two structures, such as lymphatic vessels, often performed to restore fluid flow.

Against

Example: Antgenic –relating to or characteristic of an antigen, a substance that triggers an immune response.

macro-

Large

Example: Macrophage –a large white blood cell that engulfs and digests pathogens and debris.

One, single

Example: Mononucleosis –a viral infection that increases certain types of white blood cells (monocytes) and often affects lymph nodes.

New

Example: Neoplasm –a new and abnormal growth of tissue, often a tumor.

Distant

Example: Teletherapy –a form of external radiation therapy where the radiation source is distant from the body.

Lymphatic System Suffixes

-ac

Pertaining to

Example: Hypochondriac –Pertaining to the upper abdomen beneath the ribs. The hypochondriac regions are located near lymph nodes that assist in draining parts of the abdominal cavity.

Pertaining to

Example: Inguinal –pertaining to the groin, where many lymph nodes are located.

Pertaining to

Example: Axillary –pertaining to the armpit.

Removal

Example: Plasmapheresis –removal of plasma from the blood, often used to treat autoimmune disorders affecting the lymphatic system.

Killing

Example: Bactericide –a substance that kills bacteria, sometimes used to prevent infections in lymphatic tissues

Swelling

Example: Lymphedema –swelling that generally occurs in one of the arms or legs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system.

Creation, formation

Example: Lymphangiogenesis –the formation of new lymphatic vessels, a process that plays a vital role in tissue repair, immune responses, and conditions such as cancer, by providing additional pathways for fluid and cell transport

Pertaining to

Example: Cytotoxic –pertaining to the destruction of cells, often used in cancer treatments affecting lymphatic cells.

Specialist in the study of

Example: Oncologist –a doctor who specializes in the study and treatment of cancer, including cancers affecting the lymphatic system.

Study of

Example: Immunology –the study of the immune system, including diseases that affect the lymphatic system, such as lymphoma, lymphedema, and autoimmune conditions

Destruction

Example: Hemolytic –pertaining to the destruction of red blood cells, which can affect immune and lymphatic function.

View of

Example: Biopsy –the removal of tissue for examination, often used to diagnose lymphatic cancers.

Formation, growth

Example: Cytoplasm –the gel-like material within cells, including lymphatic cells, where cellular processes occur.

Formation or production

Example: Hematopoiesis –the formation of blood cells, which are essential to immune and lymphatic function.

Inhibiting

Example: Bacteriostatic –an agent that inhibits bacterial growth, helping prevent infections in the lymphatic system.

Treatment

Example: Radiotherapy –treatment using radiation, often used for cancers that affect the lymphatic system.

Lymphatic System Word Roots/Combining Forms

aden/o

Gland

Example: Adenopathy –disease of the glands, especially the lymph nodes.

Adenoids

Example: Adenoidectomy –surgical removal of the adenoids, which are part of the lymphatic system.

Cancer

Example: Carcinoma –a type of cancer that begins in epithelial tissues and can spread to the lymphatic system.

Neck

Example: cervicodynia –pain in the neck, which can be associated with swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) or infections in the lymphatic system.

Cell

Example: Cytology –the study of cells, often used to diagnose diseases affecting lymphatic cells.

 Fungus

Example: Fungicide –an agent that kills fungi, often used to prevent fungal infections in the lymphatic system.

Meaning: immune, immunity

Example: Immunogenic –something that can provoke an immune response, such as an antigen or vaccine component.

Lymph

Example: Lymphoma –a type of cancer that begins in lymphatic tissues.

Lymph node

Example: Lymphadenopathy –disease of the lymph nodes, often seen in infections or cancers.

Lymph vessel

Example: Lymphangiography –imaging of the lymphatic vessels.

Lymphocyte

Example: Lymphocytopenia –a deficiency of lymphocytes, which are vital to immune function.

Breast

Example: Mammogram –an image of the breast, used to screen for breast cancer, which can spread to lymph nodes; Mastectomy – surgical removal of the breast.

Tumor

Example: Oncology –the study of cancer, including cancers of the lymphatic system.

Eat, swallow

Example: Phagocyte –cell that engulfs and digests foreign substances, including bacteria, dead cells, and debris, which is crucial to the immune response.

Formation, development

Example: Neoplastic –pertaining to the growth of a tumor, often in lymphatic tissues.

Spleen

Example: Splenectomy –surgical removal of the spleen.

Thymus gland

Example: Thymoma –a tumor originating from the thymus gland, part of the lymphatic system.

 Tonsil

Example: Tonsillectomy –surgical removal of the tonsils.

Virus

Example: Viremia –the presence of viruses in the blood, often affecting the lymphatic and immune systems.

Common Abbreviations Used in Medical Terminology for the Lymphatic System

Ab

(Antibody)

Definition: An antibody is a protein produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances (antigens) like bacteria, viruses, or toxins. Antibodies help neutralize these invaders

(Antigen)

Definition: An antigen is any substance that triggers an immune response in the body, such as bacteria, viruses, or other foreign particles. Antigens stimulate the production of antibodies.

(Cancer)

Definition: Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. It can develop in any organ or tissue.

(Carcinoma In Situ)

Definition: Carcinoma in situ is a term used to describe cancer cells that are in the place where they first formed and have not spread to surrounding tissues. It is an early-stage cancer.

(Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)

Definition: DCIS is a non-invasive type of breast cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but have not spread beyond the duct. It is an early form of breast cancer.

(Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)

Definition: ELISA is a laboratory test used to detect antibodies in the blood, commonly used to diagnose infections, such as HIV, or monitor immune responses.

(Hodgkin Lymphoma)

Definition: Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system and is characterized by the presence of abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells. It affects the immune system's ability to fight infection.

(Herpes Zoster)

Definition: Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. It results in a painful rash.

(Immunoglobulin A)

Definition: IgA is an antibody that plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity, providing protection to body surfaces such as the respiratory and digestive tracts.

(Immunoglobulin D)

Definition: IgD is a type of antibody that is present in small amounts in the blood and is involved in the activation of immune responses, particularly in the development of B cells

(Immunoglobulin G)

Definition: IgG is the most common type of antibody in the blood and body fluids, providing long-term protection against bacteria and viruses. It plays a critical role in the immune response.

 (Immunoglobulin M)

Definition: IgM is the first antibody produced in response to an infection. It provides early defense while the body prepares to produce more specific antibodies like IgG.

(Immunoglobulin)

Definition: Immunoglobulin is a type of antibody produced by the immune system to help fight infections. There are different types of immunoglobulins, each playing a unique role in the immune response.

(Lupus Erythematosus)

Definition: Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation, pain, and damage to various parts of the body, including skin, joints, and organs.

(Metastasis)

Definition: Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the original (primary) site to other parts of the body. This process makes cancer more difficult to treat and more dangerous.

(Metastatic)

Definition: Metastatic refers to cancer that has spread from the primary site to other parts of the body, typically through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

(Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

Definition: MMR is a vaccine that protects against three viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella. These diseases can cause serious health complications, but vaccination can prevent them.

 (Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma)

Definition: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, NHL does not involve Reed-Sternberg cells and includes various subtypes.

 (Varicella Zoster Virus)

Definition: Varicella zoster virus is the virus responsible for causing chickenpox and shingles. After initial infection, it remains dormant in the body and can reactivate as shingles later in life.

Respiratory System Prefixes

A, An-

Without, not

Example: Anoxia –the absence of oxygen in tissues.

Slow

Example: Bradypnea –abnormally slow breathing.

 Blue

Example: Cyanoderma –a bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen, also referred to as cyanosis.

 Difficult, painful, abnormal

Example: Dysphonia –a condition involving difficulty speaking or having an abnormal voice, often caused by issues in the larynx or vocal cords.

Within, inside

Example: Endotracheal intubation –the insertion of a tube through the mouth into the trachea to maintain an open airway.

Good, normal

Example: Eucapnia –a normal level of carbon dioxide in the blood, essential for maintaining pH balance and respiratory health.

Excessive, above

Example: hyperresonance –an increased echo heard during percussion of the chest, often indicating air trapping in conditions like pneumothorax or emphysema.

Below, deficient

Example: Hypoxemia –low levels of oxygen in the blood, which can impair the delivery of oxygen to tissues and organs. It is often caused by respiratory disorders such as asthma, pneumonia, COPD, or pulmonary embolism.

Beside, near

Example: Paranasal –beside the nose.

Many, excessive

Example: Polysomnography –a test to study multiple aspects of sleep, often used to diagnosis sleep disorders.

Fast

Example: Tachypnea –rapid breathing.

Respiratory System Word Roots/Combining Forms

Alveol/o

Alveolus, air sac

Example: Alveolitis – Inflammation of the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for gas exchange. This condition can result from infections, autoimmune diseases, or inhalation of harmful substances, leading to difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen absorption.

Bronchus

Example: Bronchostenosis – a narrowing of the bronchial passages, which can develop due to scarring, inflammation, tumors, or chronic infections. The reduced airway size can make breathing difficult and may cause wheezing or recurring respiratory problems.

Carbon dioxide

Example: Hypercapnia – A condition marked by excessive carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, often caused by hypoventilation or lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms include confusion, shortness of breath, and headaches, requiring ventilation support in severe cases.

Bladder, sac

Example: Cystic fibrosis – A genetic disorder that leads to thick, sticky mucus buildup in the lungs and digestive system. It causes difficulty breathing, chronic lung infections, and malnutrition due to pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. Treatment involves mucus-thinning drugs and airway clearance techniques.

 Diaphragm

Example: Diaphragmatocele – A hernia in the diaphragm, where abdominal organs push into the chest cavity. This condition may lead to breathing difficulties, chest pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Surgical repair is often necessary to correct the defect.

Epiglottis

Example: Epiglottitis – Severe inflammation of the epiglottis, which is the flap covering the windpipe during swallowing. Often caused by bacterial infections, it can obstruct airflow and lead to a life-threatening emergency. Immediate medical attention is required, often involving antibiotics and airway management.

Fiber

Example: Pulmonary fibrosis – A condition characterized by scarring and thickening of lung tissue, which reduces oxygen transfer. Causes may include long-term exposure to toxins, radiation therapy, or autoimmune diseases. Symptoms include chronic dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue, often treated with medications or lung transplants.

Blood

Example: Hemothoractomy– A surgical procedure involving an incision into the thorax, or chest cavity, to drain blood that has accumulated in the pleural space.

Larynx (voice box)

Example: Laryngomalacia – A condition where the soft tissues of the larynx are abnormally flexible, causing them to collapse inward during breathing. This can result in noisy breathing (stridor), especially in infants.

Lobe

Example: Lobectomy – Surgical removal of a lobe of the lung, often performed to treat lung cancer, tuberculosis, or severe infections. Recovery may involve pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing exercises to improve lung function.

Mucus

Example: Mucolytic – A medication that helps break down and thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways. Mucolytics are commonly used in treating chronic respiratory conditions like cystic fibrosis and COPD.

Nose

Example: Nasopharyngitis – Inflammation of the nasal passages and pharynx, commonly referred to as the common cold. Symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat, and sneezing. Treatments focus on symptom relief with decongestants and hydration.

Oxygen

Example: Hypoxia – A condition characterized by low oxygen levels in body tissues, which can result from respiratory failure, high altitudes, or anemia. Symptoms include shortness of breath, confusion, and cyanosis. Treatment may involve supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation.

Pharynx (throat)

Example: Pharyngitis –Inflammation of the throat, usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Treatments depend on the cause and may include antibiotics or throat lozenges.

Voice

Example: Aphonia –Loss of voice due to laryngeal damage, vocal cord paralysis, or psychological factors. Treatment may involve speech therapy, rest, or surgery in severe cases.

Diaphragm

Example: Phrenospasm –an involuntary spasm or contraction of the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a key role in breathing.

Pleura (membrane surrounding the lungs)

Example: Pleurisy –Inflammation of the pleura, often caused by infections, injuries, or autoimmune diseases. It causes sharp chest pain when breathing. Treatment targets the underlying cause and may include anti-inflammatory drugs.

Lung, air

Example: Pneumonia –An infection causing inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs, leading to fluid buildup, fever, cough, and chest pain. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, antivirals, or oxygen therapy.

 Lung

Example: Pulmonologist –A physician specializing in diseases of the respiratory system, such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. They perform diagnostic tests and create treatment plans to manage lung conditions.

X-rays, radiation

Example: Radiology –The medical field focused on imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to diagnose and treat conditions. Radiologists interpret these images to identify abnormalities like tumors, fractures, or infections.

Breathing

Example: Cheyne-Stokes respiration –An abnormal breathing pattern seen in patients with heart failure or neurological disorders, characterized by alternating periods of rapid and shallow breathing followed by apnea.

Nose

Example: Rhinoplasty –A condition involving excessive mucus discharge from the nose, often caused by allergies, infections, or irritants.

Septum

Example: Septoplasty –Surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum, improving airflow and relieving nasal congestion.

Sinus

Example: Sinusitis –Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, leading to congestion, facial pain, and pressure.

Sleep

Example: Hypersomnia –A condition marked by excessive daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleep that may occur even after receiving sufficient rest.

To cut, section

Example: Tomography –Imaging technique that captures cross-sectional views of the body, such as CT scans, to visualize internal structures.

Common Abbreviations Used in Medical Terminology for the Respiratory System

ARDS 

 (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)

Definition: ARDS is a severe lung condition that occurs when fluid builds up in the alveoli, leading to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. It often results from trauma, infection, or other serious conditions.

(Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure)

Definition: BiPAP is a non-invasive ventilator therapy used to help maintain airflow into the lungs by delivering different levels of air pressure during inhalation and exhalation. It is often used to treat sleep apnea and respiratory failure.

(Cystic Fibrosis)

Definition: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system, causing thick, sticky mucus to build up, leading to respiratory and digestive problems.

(Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Definition: COPD is a chronic lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

(Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

Definition: CPAP is a treatment that uses mild air pressure to keep the airways open, commonly used in patients with obstructive sleep apnea to prevent airway collapse during sleep.

(Chest X-Ray)

Definition: A CXR is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to create pictures of the chest, including the lungs, heart, and bones. It is often used to diagnose conditions like pneumonia or tuberculosis.

(Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)

Definition: FESS is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to restore normal drainage and function to the sinuses by removing blockages, typically used to treat chronic sinusitis.

(Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy)

Definition: HBOT is a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or chamber. It is used to treat conditions such as decompression sickness, serious infections, and wounds that won’t heal.

(Metered-Dose Inhaler)

Definition: An MDI is a device that delivers a specific amount of medication to the lungs in the form of a mist, commonly used to treat conditions like asthma and COPD

 (Obstructive Sleep Apnea)

Definition: OSA is a condition in which the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing repeated blockages of the airway and interruptions in breathing.

(Pneumonia)

Definition: Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus, causing symptoms like cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.

(Pulmonary Function Test)

Definition: A PFT is a group of tests that measure how well the lungs are working, including how much air they can hold, how quickly air can be exhaled, and how well the lungs deliver oxygen to the blood.

(Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

Definition: SIDS is the unexplained death of a healthy infant, typically during sleep. It is sometimes referred to as "crib death" and often occurs in infants under 1 year old.

(Tuberculosis)

Definition: TB is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It is highly contagious and spread through airborne droplets.

 (Upper Respiratory Infection)

Definition: A URI is an infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. It is commonly known as the common cold and often caused by viruses.

 (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery)

Definition: VATS is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine and treat conditions in the chest. A small camera (thoracoscope) and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions to access the lungs or other thoracic organs.