What term is defined as the destruction of pathogenic organisms on living tissue?

The term that is defined as the destruction of pathogenic organisms on living tissue is antisepsis. This process specifically involves using antiseptic agents, which are substances that can be safely applied to skin and mucous membranes to reduce the risk of infection. Antisepsis is crucial in healthcare settings, especially before surgical procedures or when treating wounds, as it helps to minimize the presence of harmful microorganisms that can lead to infections.

Sanitization generally refers to the process of reducing the number of bacteria on surfaces to a safe level, as established by public health standards. This term is more commonly used in the context of cleaning and disinfecting environments rather than direct application on living tissue.

Disinfection applies to the destruction of pathogenic organisms on inanimate surfaces rather than living tissue. It involves stronger chemical agents to eliminate germs but is not safe for direct use on skin.

Degermination involves the physical removal of microorganisms from the skin's surface, which typically includes scrubbing or washing techniques, but it does not necessarily involve the use of agents designed to destroy the pathogens in the same way that antiseptics do.

Thus, the focus on destroying pathogenic organisms specifically on living tissue aligns with the definition of antisepsis.