Which suffix describes a condition characterized by the breakdown or destruction of a substance?

The suffix that indicates a condition characterized by the breakdown or destruction of a substance is "-lysis." This term is derived from the Greek word "lysis," meaning "to loosen" or "to dissolve." It is frequently used in medical terminology to describe processes such as the breakdown of cells, tissues, or other biological materials, highlighting the involvement of degradation or disintegration in various health conditions.

For example, conditions like hemolysis refer to the breakdown of red blood cells, while lipolysis indicates the breakdown of lipids or fats. In both cases, the use of "-lysis" effectively conveys the essence of destruction or decomposition within the biological context. In contrast, the other suffixes provided pertain to different concepts; for instance, "-iasis" typically indicates a pathological condition or disease, "-tomy" refers to the process of cutting or incising, and "-ectomy" signifies surgical removal of a body part, none of which denote breakdown or destruction in the way "-lysis" does.