Pathophysiology Basics

Front

What is a symptom in pathophysiology?

Back

A symptom is a subjective indication of a disease or condition, experienced and reported by the patient, such as a headache.

Front

What are the requirements for a pathogen to be effective?

Back

An effective pathogen must have a way to enter host cells, possess genetic material, and avoid the immune system of the host.

Front

What does 'acute' mean in medical terms?

Back

Acute refers to a condition that comes on suddenly and is typically severe in nature, such as a stomach cramp lasting for 30 minutes.

Front

What does 'chronic' mean in medical terms?

Back

Chronic refers to a condition that persists over a long period, such as cancer lasting for 5 years.

Front

What is the difference between exogenous and endogenous factors?

Back

Exogenous factors are external influences that can cause disease, while endogenous factors originate from within the body.

Front

Give an example of an exogenous factor that can cause disease.

Back

Being bitten by a dog that has rabies is an example of an exogenous factor.

Front

What is a common symptom of infection?

Back

A high fever, such as 102° F, is a common symptom of infection.

Front

What is the role of the immune system in relation to pathogens?

Back

The immune system protects the body by identifying and eliminating pathogens.

Front

What is the significance of genetic material in pathogens?

Back

Genetic material is essential for pathogens to replicate and propagate within a host.

Front

What is scurvy and what causes it?

Back

Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, which is an endogenous factor.