What term describes bacteria that cause disease?

The term that describes bacteria that cause disease is pathogenic bacteria. This type of bacteria is specifically known for their ability to invade host organisms and disrupt normal bodily functions, often leading to illness or infections. Pathogenic bacteria can enter the body through various means, such as cuts, contaminated food or water, or inhalation.

In contrast, non-pathogenic bacteria do not cause disease and often play beneficial roles, such as aiding digestion or protecting against harmful bacteria. Bacterial spores refer to a dormant form of bacteria that can be resistant to harsh conditions but do not inherently describe a disease-causing ability. Symbiotic bacteria live in close association with a host organism and typically provide mutual benefits, rather than causing harm. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in fields like esthetics, where knowledge of bacteria is important for maintaining hygiene and preventing infections.