Hypohalous acid refers to a group of acids which contain a halogen atom bonded to an oxygen and hydrogen atom. These acids are important disinfectants and are used in various industrial and medical applications. Some common synonyms for hypohalous acid include halogen acid, halous acid, and oxyhalide. The type of hypohalous acid is dependent on the halogen atom present, with the most common being hypochlorous acid (chlorine), hypobromous acid (bromine), and hypoiodous acid (iodine). In addition to their disinfecting properties, hypohalous acids have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, making them of interest in the medical field.