Chapter 22, Problem 1CP

What is a pathogen?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The term pathogen.

Introduction:

A pathogen is an organism, such as bacteria, virus, or fungi, which is capable of producing a disease. The capacity of a pathogen to cause a disease is known as pathogenicity.

Explanation of Solution

Pathogens are mostly microscopic and are widespread organisms. They can be present in air, soil, and water, as well as on the body surface or inside the body of other organisms. They attack and live off their host organism. In vaccines, the pathogens are used to develop immunity and strengthen the immune response of an individual receiving it.

The pathogens can enter the body via cuts, infected food, wounds, water, or even while inhaling air. A pathogen can be a virus, bacterium, protozoan, fungi, or an insect. It can be virulent or nonvirulent on the basis of being able to penetrate the body and capability of causing the disease. Some examples of pathogenic diseases and syndromes are chicken pox, amoebic dysentery, candidiasis, and AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).

Conclusion

Thus, a pathogen is a biological causative agent that is capable of inducing an infection or a disease in another organism. Organism develops immunity against such foreign agents in order to maintain the homeostasis of the body.