CPB Certified Professional Biller Certification Practice Exam

What does the prefix 'cyan-' signify in medical terms?

1. Cold

2. Blue

3. Pain

4. Darkness

The correct answer is: Blue

The prefix 'cyan-' in medical terminology signifies the color blue. This term is commonly used in various medical contexts, particularly to describe conditions associated with bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, known as cyanosis. Cyanosis occurs due to insufficient oxygen in the blood, leading to a bluish tint, particularly notable in areas with thin skin such as lips and fingertips. Understanding prefixes like 'cyan-' is crucial for medical billing professionals, as they often encounter terms that describe patient conditions in documentation and coding.