What does the term "-genic" refer to?

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Study for the Rutgers Medical Terminology Exam, featuring multiple choice questions and detailed explanations to boost your understanding. Prepare confidently to ace your exam!

The term "-genic" is derived from the Greek word "genes," meaning "born of" or "produced by." In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe something that produces or causes a particular effect or condition. For example, "carcinogenic" refers to substances that can lead to cancer, indicating that they produce or generate cancerous cells. This suffix helps in categorizing causes of diseases or conditions in the medical field, emphasizing the productive aspect of the term it is attached to.

The other options represent entirely different concepts. "Blood condition" typically refers to terms that use the suffix "-emia," swelling is indicated by "-edema," and vomit is associated with "-emesis." Each of those suffixes conveys specific information about conditions, but they do not reflect the productive aspect inherent in "-genic."

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