Dictionary

pathogen An agent of disease. For example, Bacillus anthracis is the pathogen that causes anthrax.

pathogenesis The development of a disease and the chain of events leading to that disease.

pathogenetic Pertaining to genetic cause of a disease or condition. For example, BRCA 1 and BRCA2 are genes that, when mutated, are responsible for many cases of cancer of the breast. Therefore, these genes are pathogenetic.

pathogenic Capable of causing disease. For example, pathogenic E. coli are Eschericia coli bacteria that can make a person ill.

pathognomonic A sign or symptom that is so characteristic of a disease that it can be used to make a diagnosis. For example, Koplik spots in the mouth opposite the first and second upper molars are pathognomonic of measles.

pathologist A physician who identifies diseases and conditions by studying abnormal cells and tissues.

pathology 1 The study of disease. 2 Incorrectly (but commonly), disease. For example, “The physician found no pathology” would mean the physician found no evidence of disease.

pathophysiology Deranged function in an individual or an organ due to a disease. For example, a pathophysiologic alteration is a change in function as distinguished from a structural defect.

-pathy Suffix indicating suffering or disease, as in neuropathy (disease of the nervous system).

parenteral nutrition Intravenous feeding. Also known as parenteral alimentation.

paresis Incomplete paralysis or slight paralysis.

paresthesia An abnormal sensation of the body, such as numbness, tingling, or burning.