Inflammation Flashcards
What is inflammation?
A protective response to tissue damage by a wide range of stimuli. Aims to remove or contain the cause, initiate repair and reinstate useful function.
What are the triggers of inflammation?
Foreign body, infection, ischaemia/infection, physical/chemical injury, immune reactions
What is the point of inflammation as a vascular reaction?
To maximise movement of plasma proteins and circulating cells to the site of injury. It causes changes in flow and vessel calibre, and increases vascular permeability.
Results in hyperaemia, stasis and fluid exudation
How is phagocytosis involved in inflammation?
Phagocytosis and enzyme release by neutrophils are the main benefit of accumulation of leucocytes at inflammatory sites
What are the signs and symptoms of inflammation?
Fever, increased HR and BP, raised WCC, raised CRP, anorexia, general malaise, weigh loss.
Can also causes sepsis as large amounts of toxins
What is acute inflammation?
Rapid response that is short lived. Neutrophils predominate in the aim of complete resolution
What are the outcomes of acute inflammation
Complete resolution, healing by fibrosis (scar), abscess formation, chronic inflammation
What is chronic inflammation?
Prolonged response, can develop from acute but predominantly doesn’t. usually as a result of persistent infection, prolonged exposure to toxins, autoimmune reactions. Lymphocytes and macrophages predominate
