What suffix typically indicates a condition involving an excess?

The suffix that indicates a condition involving an excess is “-poly.” This suffix is derived from the Greek word “polus,” meaning many or excessive. It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to conditions where there is an abnormal increase or excess of a specific element or structure in the body. For example, "polyuria" describes a condition characterized by the production of an abnormally large volume of urine, while "polycythemia" refers to an increase in the number of red blood cells.

In contrast, the other suffixes have different meanings: “-itis” refers to inflammation, “-necrosis” denotes tissue death or necrosis, and “-oma” signifies a tumor or growth, which does not specifically imply excess but rather the presence of a mass. Understanding these suffixes and their meanings helps in the identification and comprehension of various medical conditions.