Stages of pathogenesis

Definition

Stages of pathogenesis describe the sequence of events during the development of a disease caused by pathogens. These stages include entry, colonization, invasion, evasion of host defenses, and damage to the host.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pathogens must enter a host through portals like the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, or broken skin.
2. Colonization is when pathogens adhere to host tissues using specific molecules like adhesins.
3. Invasion involves the spread of pathogens into deeper tissues or cells, often facilitated by enzymes.
4. Evasion mechanisms include avoiding phagocytosis and immune responses through strategies like antigenic variation.
5. Damage to the host can be direct (e.g., toxins) or indirect (e.g., immune response damage).

Related terms

Adhesins:

Molecules on the surface of pathogens that facilitate attachment to host cells.

Toxins:

Substances produced by microorganisms that cause damage to the host.

Antigenic Variation:

The process by which pathogens alter their surface proteins to evade an immune response.