etiològic

Etiològic is a Catalan adjective derived from the Greek word "aitia," meaning cause, and "logos," meaning study or discourse. It refers to anything pertaining to or concerned with the cause or causes of a phenomenon, especially a disease or condition. In a medical context, etiològic factors are the underlying reasons that lead to the development of a particular illness. Identifying the etiològic agent is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. For example, the etiològic agent of malaria is the Plasmodium parasite, transmitted by mosquitoes.

Beyond medicine, the term can be applied in other fields to describe the investigation of origins or causes. An etiològic study might examine the historical or environmental factors that contributed to a social trend or a geological event. Understanding the etiològic basis of a problem allows for targeted interventions and preventative measures. The adjective emphasizes the direct relationship between a cause and its resulting effect, highlighting the foundational elements that initiate a process or condition.