Colonization versus infection

Explanation or usage

Colonization is the presence, and often growth, of microbes at a body site without causing tissue damage or disease. Infection involves microbes establishing themselves and multiplying in the host, and may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Definitions can vary by organism and body site; detecting a microbe alone does not establish that it is causing illness.

Common misunderstandings

Detecting any bacterium proves a symptomatic disease.

In The Body

General context reviewed · book attribution and sources pending

This concept distinguishes microbes present on or in the body without causing tissue damage or disease (colonization) from infection. Infection can be asymptomatic, so detecting a microbe alone does not establish illness.