Arizona Esthetics State Board Practice Exam

How is the growth of a parasitic organism within the body referred to?

1. Infection

2. Infestation

3. Incubation

4. Contamination

The correct answer is: Infection

The term that describes the growth of a parasitic organism within the body is "infection." When a parasite enters the body and begins to multiply or establish itself within the tissues, it can lead to various health problems, which is the hallmark of an infection. This is significant in the field of esthetics as certain skin conditions can arise from microbial infections, necessitating proper hygienic practices and knowledge of pathogen interactions with human skin. The other terms represent distinct concepts: "infestation" specifically pertains to the colonization of the skin or the body with parasites that live on the outside of the host, like lice or mites, rather than within. "Incubation" refers to the period between exposure to an infectious agent and the appearance of the first symptoms of the disease. "Contamination" typically describes the presence of harmful microorganisms on surfaces or skin, which does not necessarily imply growth or establishment. Understanding these differences is crucial in esthetics, especially when managing skin health and hygiene.