CPB Certified Professional Biller Certification Practice Exam

The prefix "eti-" in a medical context is derived from the Greek word "aitia," meaning cause. Therefore, when used in medical terminology, it indicates the underlying cause of a disease or condition. For instance, the term "etiology" refers to the study of the causes or origins of diseases. Understanding this prefix is crucial for medical billing and coding professionals, as it helps clarify the nature of diagnoses and conditions that may affect billing processes and healthcare service categorization.

In contrast to other prefixes, such as those indicating treatment, diagnosis, or symptoms, "eti-" specifically relates to causation. Treatment would involve strategies or interventions applied to improve a patient's condition, while diagnosis refers to identifying the condition itself. Symptoms are the manifestations or signs of a disease. Recognizing the role of the "eti-" prefix enhances one’s comprehension of medical terminology, leading to more accurate billing and coding practices.