New York Tattoo License Practice Test

What term is used to describe microorganisms that can cause disease?

1. Enzymes

2. Pathogens

3. Antigens

4. Vectors

The correct answer is: Pathogens

The term used to describe microorganisms that can cause disease is pathogens. Pathogens include a variety of harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These microorganisms invade hosts and can disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to illness. Understanding what constitutes a pathogen is crucial for those in health-related fields, such as tattoo artistry, where maintaining hygiene and preventing infections is essential. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body but do not directly cause disease. Antigens are substances that can provoke an immune response, but they may not necessarily be harmful themselves; they can be part of the pathogens. Vectors are organisms, often insects, that transmit pathogens from one host to another, but they are not the disease-causing microorganisms themselves. By knowing the role of pathogens, individuals can better grasp the importance of sanitation and safety practices in environments where infections could occur.