What does the suffix "-sclerosis" refer to in medical terminology?

The suffix "-sclerosis" in medical terminology specifically refers to the hardening of body tissue. It derives from the Greek word "skleros," meaning hard. This term is often used in a variety of medical conditions to describe pathological hardening that may occur in organs or tissues. For instance, in multiple sclerosis, the hardening of nerve tissue disrupts normal neural function.

Understanding the meanings of medical suffixes like "-sclerosis" is crucial for interpreting various medical diagnoses and conditions, as they provide important insight into the nature of the disease or condition being referred to. Suffixes help in characterizing diseases based on their physical or pathological characteristics, which is essential for effective communication in medical contexts.