What is the meaning of the suffix "-scopic"?

The suffix "-scopic" derives from the Greek word "skopein," which means "to look" or "to examine." When used in medical terminology, it refers specifically to visual examination or observation. For example, in terms like "endoscopic" or "microscopic," the suffix indicates the method of examining internal structures or objects that are not visible to the naked eye.

In the context of medical practice, visual examination is crucial for diagnosing conditions, as many illnesses require direct observation of tissues or organs to assess their health or disease state. Hence, the meaning of the suffix embodies the fundamental role of sight in medical diagnostics and treatment.

Other choices relate to different aspects of medicine: "pertaining to sound" would connect more with auditory examination methods (as seen in terms like "auscultation"), "pertaining to the study of diseases" pertains to pathology, and "pertaining to the flow of blood" is related to hemodynamics. These do not align with the definition of "-scopic," which specifically emphasizes visual assessment.