What does the suffix -itis indicate in medical terminology?

The suffix -itis is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate inflammation of a particular organ or tissue. For instance, when the term "appendicitis" is used, it refers to the inflammation of the appendix. Inflammation can be a response to infection, irritation, or injury and is characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain in the affected area. This inflammation is a fundamental part of the body's immune response and helps in healing; however, excessive or chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues.

The other options do not accurately convey the meaning of the suffix. Pain is typically described with terms like -algia or -dynia, tumor relates to growths which are often signified by the suffix -oma, and disease can be denoted by various terms depending on the context; -itis specifically highlights the inflammatory aspect of a condition. Understanding the significance of the suffix -itis aids in comprehending the nature of various medical conditions.