Which term refers to a condition with no known cause?

The term "idiopathic" is used to describe a condition for which there is no known cause. This means that despite extensive investigation and testing, the specific origin or reason for the condition's occurrence remains unclear. This terminology is often employed in discussions of various medical conditions, where the underlying factors that lead to the disease cannot be pinpointed.

For instance, idiopathic conditions can include certain forms of hypertension or pulmonary fibrosis, where patients exhibit symptoms but the exact reason why they developed these issues is unknown. This concept is essential in the fields of medicine and research, as identifying the cause of a condition is crucial for effective treatment and management.

The other terms provided have different meanings: "symptomatic" refers to conditions that exhibit specific symptoms without delving into the cause; "pathogenic" relates to the way certain diseases are caused by pathogens or infectious agents; and "genetic" involves conditions that arise due to hereditary factors or mutations in DNA. Understanding these distinctions is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies.