Inflammation And Tissue Healing

Question 1

Define inflammation

Answer 1

The immune systems response to harmful stimuli e.g pathogens, damaged cells or toxic compunds

Question 2

What are the five cardinal signs of inflammation

Answer 2

Pain
Redness
Heat
Loss of function
Swelling

Question 3

What are the four phases of tissue repair and describe them

Answer 3

1 - bleeding (4-6 hours), soft tissue is disrupted and blood vessels are severed releasing blood plasma and blood cells into wound site
2 - inflammation (2/3 hours-couple of weeks), mast cells detect injury and release histamine initiating inflammatory response
3 - proliferation (24/48 hours-2/3 weeks), fibroblast acts to repair connective tissue and new blood vessels are formed
4 - remodelling (1/2 weeks-1 year), refinement of collagen

Question 4

What is the difference between acute and chronic inflammation

Answer 4

Acute inflammation starts rapidly and symptoms may last a few days however chronic inflammation is slow, long term lasting for several months to years

Question 5

List the general and local factors that may affect tissue healing

Answer 5

General - age, protein deficiency, low vitamin C, steroids, low temperature
Local - poor blood supply, adhesion to bone, prolonged inflammation, drying of wound, excessive movement