What is the term for the return of a disease after recovery?

The term that accurately describes the return of a disease after recovery is "recurrence." Recurrence refers specifically to the re-emergence of a disease following a period during which it was thought to be gone or under control. This term is commonly used in the context of diseases such as cancer, where a patient may initially respond well to treatment but then experience a return of the disease later on.

In contrast, a relapse generally indicates a return of symptoms or a worsening of a condition that had previously improved, but it may not necessarily mean that the underlying disease itself has reappeared. Remission refers to a state where the signs and symptoms of a disease are reduced or not present, but it doesn't imply that the disease is cured or that it might not come back. Exacerbation indicates a worsening of symptoms in a chronic illness rather than the return of the disease itself.

Understanding these terms is essential for clear communication in medical contexts, as they each describe different aspects of disease progression and management.