What term describes a disease caused by infection with bacteria, fungi, or viruses?

The term that accurately describes a disease caused by infection with bacteria, fungi, or viruses is "infection." An infection occurs when pathogenic microorganisms invade the body, multiply, and often cause damage to tissues or organs. The term encompasses a broad range of diseases, including those caused by viruses like influenza, bacteria like strep throat, and fungi such as those responsible for athlete's foot.

In contrast, inflammation refers to the body's immune response to infection or injury, manifesting as redness, swelling, heat, and pain. While inflammation can be a part of the infection process, it is not synonymous with infection itself.

Contamination refers to the presence of harmful microorganisms or substances in a given environment, which does not necessarily imply an active disease state. It focuses more on the presence of pathogens rather than the disease caused by those pathogens.

An allergy describes an immune response to a substance that is normally harmless, which is unrelated to infections caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral pathogens. Allergies are typically associated with a hypersensitive reaction to allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods.

Thus, the usage of the term "infection" is the most precise and appropriate descriptor for diseases caused by these pathogens.