What is the science of the causes and effects of diseases called?

Pathology is the correct term for the science that studies the causes and effects of diseases. It involves the examination of tissues, organs, body fluids, and autopsies in order to understand the nature of diseases and their mechanisms. Pathology is critical in diagnosing diseases, determining their severity, and studying disease progression.

In contrast, immunology focuses specifically on the immune system and its response to pathogens, while epidemiology deals with the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, including the study of outbreak patterns and prevention strategies. Clinical medicine is concerned with diagnosing and treating patients, rather than understanding the underlying causes of diseases themselves.