What does the suffix "-itis" commonly signify in medical terminology?

The suffix "-itis" in medical terminology is used to denote inflammation of a specific organ or body part. For instance, "appendicitis" refers to inflammation of the appendix, while "tendinitis" indicates inflammation of a tendon. This suffix provides crucial information about the condition being described, as inflammation is often a response to injury, infection, or autoimmune processes. The recognition of "-itis" as indicative of inflammation is essential for medical professionals and students, as it helps in diagnosing and understanding various health conditions.