Which term refers to an infection that affects the entire body, not localized?

• A. Pediculosis
• B. Contagions
• C. Syphilis
• D. Immunity

Answer: (C)

A systemic infection affects the whole body rather than staying confined to one spot. Syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum and can involve multiple organ systems—skin, nervous system, cardiovascular system, and more—throughout the body if not treated. That broad, body-wide impact is what makes it the best example of an infection that is not localized.

Pediculosis is a localized infestation of lice on the scalp or hair. Contagions describes diseases that can be transmitted from person to person, but it isn’t a term for a specific infection. Immunity isn’t an infection at all; it’s the body's defense against disease.