Biologic Function
virulence Audio
vir·u·lence [ vir-yuh-luhns, vir-uh- ]
Definitions related to virulence:
  • Degree of pathogenicity of a microorganism as indicated by the severity of the disease produced and its ability to invade the tissues of a host; the competence of any infectious agent to produce pathologic effects.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
  • The ability of a microorganism to cause damage to its host.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • The degree of pathogenicity within a group or species of microorganisms or viruses as indicated by case fatality rates and/or the ability of the organism to invade the tissues of the host. The pathogenic capacity of an organism is determined by its VIRULENCE FACTORS.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.