Electrolysis Practice Exam

What are organisms that produce disease called?

1. Beneficial

2. Pathogenic

3. Commensal

4. Symbiotic

The correct answer is: Pathogenic

Organisms that produce disease are referred to as pathogenic. The term "pathogenic" specifically describes microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that can cause illness or disease in a host. Pathogens have mechanisms that allow them to invade host tissues, evade the immune response, and disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to various health issues. In contrast, beneficial organisms contribute positively to health, such as those that aid in digestion or provide nutrients. Commensal organisms live on or in the host without harming or benefiting them, and symbiotic organisms have a mutually beneficial relationship with their host. These terms clarify the different roles that various organisms can play in relation to human health, with pathogenic organisms being those specifically associated with causing disease.