What does the suffix -itis refer to?

The suffix -itis specifically refers to inflammation. In medical terminology, this suffix is commonly used to indicate an inflammatory condition in various organs or tissues. For example, when discussing appendicitis, it denotes inflammation of the appendix. This understanding is critical in medical contexts, as it provides clarity about the nature of certain diseases and conditions, guiding diagnosis and treatment options.

The other options provide definitions that do not align with the specific meaning of -itis: 'condition of' suggests a state or quality but is too broad, 'study of' refers to scientific disciplines often ending in -ology, and 'tumor' relates to abnormal growths, which do not have the connotation of inflammation.