# pathogenesis

/ˌpæθəˈdʒɛnəsɪs/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pathogenesis
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the process by which a disease develops in the body. It describes how a harmful germ or virus causes illness and how the body reacts to it.

For teachers: the biological process by which a disease develops, including the mechanisms by which a pathogen causes cellular damage and triggers an immune response.

## Examples

- Scientists are studying the pathogenesis of the new virus.
- Understanding the pathogenesis of the infection helps doctors choose the most effective treatment for their patients.
- The textbook provides a detailed overview of the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, explaining how the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy tissue as a foreign invader.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.