What term refers to any abnormality of bodily function?

The term "disorder" specifically refers to any abnormality of bodily function, which can encompass a wide range of health issues affecting physical or mental processes. In a medical context, it is used to describe a state where normal physiological functions are disrupted, leading to potential health problems. This can include conditions like anxiety disorder, eating disorders, or neurological disorders, which illustrate how the term applies across various aspects of health.

While other terms might seem related, they do not encompass the full spectrum. "Condition" typically refers to a state of health that may or may not be abnormal, so it lacks the specificity regarding abnormal bodily function that "disorder" conveys. "Malfunction" generally relates to a failure of a specific function or system, often used in contexts outside of human health, such as machinery. "Affliction" refers to a cause of suffering, which is not limited to abnormalities of bodily function and might also include a broad range of issues, including social or emotional struggles. Hence, "disorder" is the most accurate term for describing an abnormality in bodily function.