American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What does the prefix "ec-" or "ecto-" signify?

1. Inside

2. Outside

3. Right

4. Left

The correct answer is: Outside

The prefix "ec-" or "ecto-" signifies "outside." This prefix is derived from the Greek "ek," meaning "out of" or "out from." In medical terminology, it is commonly used to indicate something that is external or situated on the outer side of a structure. For example, "ectopic" refers to a location outside its usual place, such as an ectopic pregnancy where the embryo grows outside the uterus. Understanding this prefix helps in recognizing and interpreting various medical terms that pertain to external locations or conditions. In contrast, the options denoting "inside," "right," and "left" do not align with the meaning of "ec-" or "ecto-," as they refer to internal positions or lateral directions rather than external placements.