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

The suffix "-oma" is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a tumor or neoplasm. This term is derived from the Greek word "oma," which specifically indicates a swelling or mass. In various contexts, it is used to categorize both benign and malignant growths, such as "lipoma" for a fatty tumor or "carcinoma" for a type of cancer.

The understanding of "-oma" is essential in the medical field as it helps in identifying and classifying different types of tumors based on the tissue from which they arise or their characteristics. Recognizing this suffix allows healthcare professionals to communicate more effectively about specific conditions related to tumor pathology.