What is the term for the cause of a disease, particularly in infectious diseases?

The term for the cause of a disease, particularly in infectious diseases, is etiology. Etiology refers to the study of causation and the factors that lead to the development of a disease. In the context of infectious diseases, etiology typically involves identifying the specific pathogens—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—that cause the illness. Understanding the etiology of a disease is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventive measures.

Pathogen is closely related but refers specifically to the microorganism that causes disease, rather than the broader concept of causation. Syndrome refers to a set of signs and symptoms that occur together and characterize a particular abnormality or condition but does not directly identify the cause. Diagnosis is the process of identifying a disease based on symptoms and tests, rather than the underlying cause of that disease. Thus, etiology encompasses a wider scope of understanding regarding the origins of diseases, while the other terms have more specific meanings.