Concept Map: Etiology and Pathogenesis of Disease

Central Theme: Disease

Etiologic Factors: (branches radiating outwards from central theme)

• Genetic:
  • Mutations in genes coding for essential proteins
  • Chromosomal abnormalities
• Infectious:
  • Viruses (e.g., HIV)
  • Bacteria (e.g., E. coli)
  • Parasites (e.g., Malaria)
  • Fungi (e.g., Candidiasis)
• Environmental:
  • Toxins (e.g., lead poisoning)
  • Radiation exposure
  • Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin D deficiency)
• Immunologic:
  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Lupus)
  • Allergic reactions
• Lifestyle:
  • Smoking
  • Poor diet
  • Physical inactivity

Connecting Lines: (linking Etiologic Factors to Pathogenesis)

• Each etiologic factor can initiate a chain of events at the cellular or molecular level.
• Genetic mutations can lead to abnormal protein function or production, disrupting cellular processes.
• Infectious agents can invade and damage host cells, or disrupt normal body functions.
• Environmental toxins can directly damage cells or interfere with cellular processes.
• Immunologic factors can lead to the body attacking its own tissues or an overreaction to harmless substances.
• Lifestyle choices can create chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, or other imbalances that contribute to disease development.

Pathogenesis: (concept following the connecting lines from Etiologic Factors)

• Cellular and molecular changes triggered by the initial etiologic factor.
• Examples:
  • Abnormal protein function
  • Cell death
  • Tissue damage
  • Altered gene expression
  • Disruption of biochemical pathways

Disease Manifestations: (concept following Pathogenesis)

• The signs and symptoms experienced by the patient, resulting from the underlying cellular and molecular changes.
• Examples:
  • Pain
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Organ dysfunction