The process by which microorganisms cause diseases is known as
A) pathogenesis.
B) virulence.
C) LD₅₀ (lethal dose₅₀).
D) infection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pathogenesis refers to the mechanisms by which microorganisms cause disease. This includes a range of processes and interactions between the microorganism and the host that lead to illness.

Answer: D
 Infection is the process by which microorganisms enter and multiply within a host organism, potentially causing disease. Infection is a critical step in pathogenesis, as it allows microorganisms to establish themselves within the host and interact with host tissues and immune systems in ways that can lead to illness.

Option B, virulence, refers to the ability of a microorganism to cause disease, but it is not synonymous with the process of pathogenesis itself. LD₅₀ refers to the dose of a substance (such as a toxin or drug) that is lethal for 50% of the test population, and is not directly related to the process of pathogenesis.

The Process by Which Microorganisms Cause Diseases Is Known as