Michigan Esthetician State Board Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

The term that specifically refers to the invasion of body tissues by disease-causing pathogens is infection. An infection occurs when harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, enter the body, multiply, and begin to harm tissues. This process can lead to various symptoms and illnesses, depending on the type of pathogen and the area of the body affected.

Contamination refers to the presence of harmful substances or microorganisms on surfaces, instruments, or skin, but it does not imply that these pathogens have invaded body tissues. Infestation typically refers to the invasion of the body by larger parasites, such as insects or worms, rather than the microscopic pathogens that cause infections. Transmission is the process through which a pathogen is spread from one host to another but does not specifically denote the invasion of tissues. Therefore, infection is the most accurate term to indicate the harmful process of pathogen invasion within the body.