Ace the California Medical Assistant Exam 2026 – Boost Your Career with CCBMA Success!

The prefix that suggests a reduced quantity or rate is "hypo-." This prefix is derived from the Greek word "hypo," meaning "under," "below," or "beneath." In medical terminology, "hypo-" is often used to describe conditions where there is a decrease in the normal level of a substance or function. For example, "hypoglycemia" refers to lower than normal blood sugar levels, while "hypotension" indicates lower than normal blood pressure.

This is distinct from other prefixes: "hyper-" signifies an increased quantity or rate, as in "hyperglycemia," which means elevated blood sugar levels. "Oligo-" refers to scarcity or a small amount, often seen in contexts like "oliguria," which indicates reduced urine output. Meanwhile, "ophthalmo-" pertains to the eye and does not imply any quantity or rate. Understanding these prefixes is crucial for accurately interpreting medical terms and their associated conditions.