CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Pathogens are capable of:

1. Always harmful

2. Sometimes harmful

3. Capable of producing disease

4. 1 and 3 only

The correct answer is: 1 and 3 only

The correct answer emphasizes that pathogens are indeed capable of producing disease and can be harmful to the host. Pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, have the potential to invade a host organism and disturb normal biological functions, leading to infections or diseases. It's important to note that while some pathogens are always harmful and can cause disease in all hosts they encounter, others may not cause any noticeable harm in hosts with strong immune defenses. Additionally, certain pathogens can exist in a state of balance with the host, where they do not cause disease but can become harmful under certain conditions, such as if the host's immune system is compromised. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the universal capability of pathogens to produce disease, acknowledging that while some can be consistently harmful, others may not always result in disease expression. This nuanced understanding helps frame the broader impact of pathogenic organisms in healthcare and biology.