Study GuideMicrobiology–The Host Parasite Relationship1. Infection and DiseaseAdelicate balanceexists between disease-causing microorganisms and the body’s defensesystems. When the body’s defensesare strong enough to control or destroy invading microbes, theperson remainshealthy. However, when the microorganisms overcome these defenses,diseasedevelops.Once disease occurs, the outcome can vary. An infected person may:•Recover completely•Suffer temporary damage•Experience permanent injury•In severe cases, dieThe final result depends on many factors, including the type of microorganism, the strength of thehost’s defenses, and how quickly treatment begins.1.1Pathology–The Study of DiseaseThe scientific study of disease is calledpathology. The word comes from the Greekpathos, meaningsuffering.Pathology focuses on several important aspects of disease:•Etiology–thecauseof diseaseoThe microorganism responsible is called theetiologic agent•Pathogenesis–theprocess by which disease develops•Structural and functional changes–how tissues and organs are altered during disease1.2Infection vs DiseaseThe termsinfectionanddiseasedonotmean the same thing.Preview Mode
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