Which term refers to a condition described directly by the patient?

The term that refers to a condition described directly by the patient is symptom. A symptom is a subjective experience reported by the individual, which may not be observable by others. This can include feelings of pain, dizziness, fatigue, or any other discomfort that the patient specifically identifies.

In contrast, the other terms used in the options describe different concepts. A sign refers to an objective indication of a medical condition, such as a rash or elevated temperature, which can be observed and measured by a healthcare provider. Pathogenesis involves the development and progression of a disease, detailing how the disease affects the body over time. The mechanism of injury describes the specific way in which an injury occurs. These distinctions are essential for understanding patient assessments and effective communication within healthcare settings.