Pathogen
Medical term · P
A tiny organism such as a virus, bacterium, or parasite that can invade the body and produce disease.
Word parts
pathogen = path/o + -gen
Related terms
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DiseaseAn abnormal condition in the body causing harm.
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VirusA micro-organism which invades living cells in order to grow or reproduce. Viruses cause many infections, from the common cold, chickenpox and measles to HIV.
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HostA person or other living organism that can be infected by a virus or other pathogen under natural conditions.
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ResistanceThe ability of a pathogen to withstand drugs previously effective against them. Usually the result of genetic mutation.