CPB Certified Professional Biller Certification Practice Exam

What does the prefix 'ab-' indicate in medical terminology?

1. Against

2. Around

3. Away from

4. Without

The correct answer is: Away from

In medical terminology, the prefix 'ab-' signifies the meaning of "away from." This is commonly seen in various terms where it denotes a direction of movement or position relative to a reference point. For example, the term "abduction" refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body. Similarly, "abnormal" can imply straying away from the norm or typical standard. Understanding this concept is essential in medical billing and coding, as it helps in accurately interpreting terminology that describes medical procedures, diagnoses, and anatomy. Recognizing the prefixes aids in decoding complex terms and ensures precise documentation and billing of medical services.