What term refers to the deterioration or impairment of an organ?

The correct term that refers to the deterioration or impairment of an organ is infiltration. In the context of pathology, infiltration describes the process by which substances or cells invade or accumulate in an organ or tissue, causing damage or dysfunction. This can occur with various substances, including abnormal cells (as seen in cancer) or excessive fluids. When infiltration occurs, it typically leads to a decline in the organ's function, as it disrupts the normal architecture and functionality of the tissue.

While inflammation, neoplasm, and edema are all related to various conditions that can affect organs, they represent different processes. Inflammation is a response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain. Neoplasm refers specifically to an abnormal growth of tissue, which may or may not be cancerous. Edema involves the accumulation of fluid in tissues, which can cause swelling but does not directly denote impairment or deterioration of the organ itself. In contrast, infiltration emphasizes the idea of invasive processes leading to organ dysfunction, making it the most accurate term for describing the deterioration or impairment.