Which prefix means 'above' in medical terminology?

The prefix "hyper-" translates to 'above' or 'excessive' in medical terminology. It is commonly used in various medical contexts to indicate an increase, exaggeration, or elevation in a condition, measurement, or process. For instance, "hypertension" describes elevated blood pressure, emphasizing the concept of excess or being above the normal range.

The other prefixes do not convey the same meaning. "Hypo-" refers to a condition that is beneath or below normal, "xer-" relates to dryness (as in xerosis), and "steat-" pertains to fat or greasy substances. Understanding the meanings of prefixes is essential in medical terminology, as they form the foundation of many complex medical terms.