In medical terminology, what does the suffix "-oid" typically mean?

The suffix "-oid" is commonly used in medical terminology to denote similarity or resemblance to something else. It comes from the Greek word "eidos," meaning "form" or "shape." Therefore, when a medical term includes "-oid," it indicates that the subject is similar to or has qualities of another object or condition.

For example, in the term "pyeloid," it describes a structure resembling the renal pelvis, while "cystoid" indicates a resemblance to a cyst. Understanding this suffix is vital for interpreting many medical terms as it helps depict relationships and characteristics in a concise manner.

Other choices represent different meanings that do not relate to resemblance. For instance, "deficiency" identifies a lack or shortage, "formation or production" indicates creating or generating something, and "excessive flow" pertains to an abundance or overflow, none of which align with the concept of resembling or being like something else. Thus, the choice indicating resemblance is the only accurate interpretation in this context.