What does the prefix "hypo-" indicate?

The prefix "hypo-" signifies a condition of deficiency or a lower-than-normal level of something. In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe situations or quantities that are insufficient or less than what is regarded as normal or standard. For instance, in the term "hypoglycemia," it refers to a lower than normal level of glucose in the blood.

In contrast, other prefixes denote different meanings. The alternative choices relate to different contexts: the first indicates a position of being after or behind, the second refers to an excess or above-normal level, and the last describes something that is surrounding or encompassing. Understanding these prefixes helps clarify medical terms and their implications in healthcare. Therefore, "hypo-" specifically relates to conditions of being "too little or below," making it the correct choice in this context.