What is the term for a condition caused by contact with a harmful chemical substance?

The term for a condition caused by contact with a harmful chemical substance is poisoning. This situation arises when a toxic substance enters the body through various means, such as ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, and leads to adverse health effects.

Poisoning can result from a wide range of harmful chemicals, including drugs, household cleaners, pesticides, and other hazardous materials. The severity of poisoning can vary dramatically, depending on the nature of the chemical, the amount involved, and the individual’s specific health condition and response. Recognizing and treating poisoning promptly is vital, as it can potentially lead to serious health consequences or even be life-threatening.

In contrast, infection relates to invading pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or fungi, while allergies are immune system responses to typically harmless substances. Contamination generally refers to the presence of an unwanted substance but does not specifically imply that the substance is harmful or has caused adverse health effects.