What does the suffix -osis indicate in medical terminology?

The suffix -osis in medical terminology signifies an abnormal condition or process. It is commonly used to describe a disease or abnormal increase in a particular type of cell or tissue. For instance, terms like "neurosis" or "sclerosis" utilize this suffix to reflect a variant state away from normal physiological conditions. Understanding this suffix is crucial in clinical practice as it helps in identifying and categorizing various medical conditions, leading to appropriate diagnosis and treatment plans.