Cute Inflammation

Question 1

What 3 phases is acute inflammation divided into?

Answer 1

Fluidic
Cellular
Reparative

Question 2

Describe the sequence of events that occurs following the presence of the irritant

Answer 2

• Momentary vasoconstriction (neural reflex that last seconds, prevents blood loss)
• Dilation of blood vessels (caused by release of chemical mediators)
  -Exudation of fluid (following slowing of blood flow and altered capillary permeability, rich protein fluid exudated)
• Margination of leukocytes ( circulating WBC, specially neutrophils, adherance to altered endothelial surfaces)
• Emigration of leukocytes (mostly neutrophils, migrate by diapedesis)
  Potential induction of a systemic increase in temperature (fever, hyperthermia, pyrexia)- often sign of infection

Question 3

Why does exudate form?

Answer 3

It forms during inflammation because of the increase vascular permeability due to the increased interendothelial spaces

Question 4

Describe differences between exudate and transudate

Answer 4

• Exudate is rich in proteins (fibrinogen) and/ or cells whereas transudate has little protein and few or no nucleated cells.
• Transudate iss mainly clear and weatery but exudate is often cloudy/ viscous.

Question 5

Why types of exudate can you get?

Answer 5

• Purulent
• Fibrinous
• Serous
• Combinations

Question 6

Where are the chemical mediators of inflammation derived from?

Answer 6

Either plasma (e.g. complement proteins) or cells (e.g.histamine)

Question 7

Which markers should you check for inflammation?

Answer 7

Renal and hepatic

Question 8

Describe the role of the complement system in acute inflammation

Answer 8

Activation of the cascade by different pathways leads to cleavage of C3. The products formed from the breakdown of C3 and other proteins induce further inflammation and further activation of the immune system. 
The MAC (membrane attack complex) kills cells.

Question 9

Which prostoglandin is responsible for pyrexia?

Answer 9

PG2- go via hypothalamus to the brain causing an increase in core temp.
(endogenous pyrogens e.g. IL-1, IL-6 and TNFa lead to accummulation of PG2)

Question 10

What is the function of pyrexia?

Answer 10

• helps leukocytes go through the area of inflammation and also creates unfavourable conditions for the virus/ bacteria.

Question 11

Which drugs can you use to reduce a fever?

Answer 11

COX 1 and COX 2 inhibitors.

Question 12

What is catarrhal inflammation?

Answer 12

Serous inflammation of the mucous membranes.