Latent Infection

Definition

A state where a pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria, establishes an infection within a host but does not cause noticeable symptoms. The pathogen remains dormant or inactive within the host, potentially capable of reactivating and causing disease later.

Etymology

From Latin 'latens', meaning 'hidden' or 'concealed'.

Example

Herpes simplex virus can remain as a latent infection in the nervous system, periodically reactivating to cause outbreaks.

Related Terms

• Dormant
• Viral latency
• Chronic infection

Usage Notes

Latent infections can be difficult to diagnose and may not always be detectable. Some pathogens exhibit periods of latency where they are inactive but capable of resuming active replication upon certain triggers.