Chronic inflammation

Question 1

What occurs in chronic inflammation

Answer 1

Tissue damage, inflammation and healing going on at the same time

Question 2

What are the factors promoting resolution of acute inflammation

Answer 2

• Minimal cell death and tissue loss
• An organ with good regenerative capacity
• Rapid destruction of the causative agent
• Rapid removal of fluid and debris by good blood supply
• Good nutrition and immune function

Question 3

What is granulation tissue

Answer 3

As part of resolution of acute inflammation the damaged/dead tissue is “organised” into granulation tissue
- Macrophages digest debris
- Fibroblasts to provide scaffolding for repair
- New blood vessels to allow nutrients for regeneration of tissues
- End result - healing, often with scarring

Question 4

What are the causes of chronic inflammation

Answer 4

• Primary - no acute inflammation stage first-leprosy, TB, asbestosis
• Progressing from acute inflammation - foreign body
• Progressing from recurrent episodes of acute inflammation - gall bladder (cholecystitis)

Question 5

What are the systemic consequences of chronic inflammation

Answer 5

• Fever, weight loss, malaise
• Fibrosis and hence distortion of tissues
• Anaemia of chronic disease