American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which prefix means "through" in a locational context?

1. Ad-

2. Dia-

3. Per-

4. Trans-

The correct answer is: Per-

The prefix that means "through" in a locational context is "Per-." This prefix is derived from Latin and is often used to indicate completion or thoroughness in various contexts, including physical movements or processes. For example, in medical terminology, "percutaneous" refers to a procedure performed through the skin. Thus, the usage of "per" signifies that something is happening through a specific area or structure. In contrast, while "dia-" can denote "through" as well, it often indicates going across or an extension in a broader sense, such as "diagnosis" meaning to distinguish through knowledge. "Trans-" is also relevant as it means "across," typically used in terms like "transfusion." "Ad-" generally refers to movement towards or addition, not specifically through. Each of these prefixes has its unique application, but "per-" distinctly emphasizes the concept of thoroughness or passage through a particular space.