👉 Terminals, such as "infection," are key components in the context of biological processes and medical terminology. An infection refers to an invasion or colonization of a living organism by pathogenic microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—that disrupt normal cellular functions and can cause disease. When a pathogen enters the body, it can trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and other symptoms characteristic of infection. This process involves complex interactions between the invading agent and the host's immune system, where the body attempts to eliminate the pathogen while sometimes causing collateral damage to healthy tissues. Understanding infections is crucial for diagnosing and treating diseases, as they can range from mild (like a cold) to severe (such as sepsis or pneumonia), and managing them often requires antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, or other targeted therapies.