What does the suffix "-toxic" indicate?

The suffix "-toxic" specifically indicates a relationship to poison or toxins. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "toxikon," which means poison. In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe substances or conditions that are harmful or poisonous to living organisms. For example, "hepatotoxic" refers to something that is toxic to the liver, while "nephrotoxic" refers to agents that are toxic to the kidneys. Understanding this suffix is essential in medical contexts where the effects of toxic substances on the body are being discussed.

Although other suffixes related to medical conditions might imply different meanings, none encapsulate the specific notion of poison as clearly as "-toxic." This makes it an important term in fields like pharmacology, toxicology, and pathology, where the harmful effects of various substances can have significant implications for patient care and treatment options.