What does the suffix '-megaly' refer to?

The suffix '-megaly' is derived from the Greek word 'megas,' which means large or great. In medical terminology, this suffix is used to indicate an enlargement of a specific organ or body part. For example, "hepatomegaly" refers to the enlargement of the liver, while "splenomegaly" refers to an enlarged spleen. Understanding the implications of this suffix is crucial in medical fields as it provides essential information about conditions affecting the size of various organs, helping in diagnosis and treatment planning. The other terms do not relate to size; for instance, terms related to hardening or softening describe different pathological states.