CHPT 6

Mechanisms of Disease

The processes and factors that contribute to disease development.

Pathogenesis

The pattern of a disease’s development.

Epidemiology

The study of the occurrence, distribution, and transmission of diseases in human populations.

Endemic Diseases

Diseases that are native to a local region.

Epidemics

Occurrences when a disease affects many people at the same time.

Pandemics

Widespread, perhaps global, epidemics.

Etiology

The study of the factors that cause a disease.

Idiopathic

Refers to a disease with an unknown cause.

Inflammatory Mechanisms

Processes that involve autoimmunity, inflammation, and degeneration.

Genetic Mechanisms

Disease processes linked to genetic factors.

Bacteria

Tiny cells without nuclei that can secrete toxins or parasitize host cells.

Viruses

Microscopic, intracellular parasites that invade host cells.

Prions

Pathogenic protein molecules that can convert normal proteins into abnormal ones.

Pathogenic Organisms

Microorganisms that can cause disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Tumors

Abnormal growths of cells that can be benign or malignant.

Metastasis

The process by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumor to form secondary tumors.

Cachexia

A syndrome characterized by appetite loss, weight loss, and general weakness, often seen in cancer.

Chronic Inflammation

A prolonged inflammatory response that can cause damage to tissues.

Benign tumors

Tumors that remain localized and do not spread.

Malignant tumors

Tumors that can spread and form secondary tumors.

Inflammation Mediators

Substances like histamine and prostaglandins that play roles in the inflammatory response.