What does the suffix "-osis" signify in medical terminology?

The suffix "-osis" in medical terminology is used to denote a condition or process, particularly one that suggests a pathological state or abnormality. When this suffix is attached to root words, it often signifies a disease, disorder, or an increase in a particular function or element in the system. For example, "fibrosis" refers to the condition of having fibrous tissue, while "nephrosis" indicates a kidney condition. This makes the suffix an important part of understanding various medical conditions and their implications for health care decisions and patient management.