What do pathogenic bacteria primarily cause?

Pathogenic bacteria primarily cause disease in humans, animals, and plants. These microorganisms invade the host's tissues, leading to various health issues. The mechanisms by which they cause disease can include direct invasion, production of toxins that harm tissues or disrupt normal biological functions, and triggering immune responses that can result in inflammation and other symptoms associated with illness.

While it's true that pathogenic bacteria can also cause infections and produce toxins, the broader and more encompassing result of these interactions is the manifestation of disease. The term "disease" captures the spectrum of adverse health effects, ranging from mild discomfort to severe illness. It is important to recognize that infections serve as a pathway through which diseases occur, but the ultimate goal is to understand the impact of bacterial presence on overall health, which is characterized by the various diseases they can cause.