In medical terminology, what does the prefix 'hypo-' imply?

The prefix 'hypo-' in medical terminology signifies that something is below normal or deficient. It is frequently used to describe conditions or states related to a decreased level or lower than the expected amount of a substance or function in the body. For example, 'hypoglycemia' refers to lower than normal blood glucose levels. This prefix is derived from Greek, where 'hypo' means 'under' or 'below,' reinforcing the idea of below average or insufficient levels. In contrast, the other options suggest states of higher levels or equality, which do not align with the meaning of 'hypo-'.