NAVTA Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The suffix -pathy in medical terminology is used to indicate an abnormal condition or disease related to a particular body part or system. It derives from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or disease. When this suffix is combined with a root word, it signifies a disorder or abnormal state associated with that root. For example, "neuropathy" refers to a disease or abnormal condition affecting the nerves.

This understanding of -pathy is fundamental in the medical field, as it helps in identifying and categorizing various conditions patients may experience.