Inflammation - Introduction

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Introduction

  • Inflammation is the process by which cells and exudate accumulate in irritated tissues and usually tend to protect them from further injury.

Cardinal Signs

  • The classical gross signs of inflammation have been recognised since the time of Celsus (25BC-AD50).
    • These are known as the cardinal signs of inflammation.
  1. Reddening
    • Caused by increased blood flow (hyperaemia) to the area, due to dilation of previously inconspicuous capillaries..
  2. Swelling
    • The inflamed area appears swollen due to exudation of fluid from the dilated blood vessels into the inflamed tissue.
  3. Heat
    • There is increased heat in the affected tissue due to increased blood flow.
    • The temperature of the inflamed portion approximates to internal body temperature.
  4. Pain
    • Chemical mediators of pain are release by damaged tissue. in the affected tissue caused by #* Inflammatory exudate puts local pressure on nerve endings.
  5. Loss of function
    • The pain and damage to the tissue result in a reluctance to use the inflamed portion.

Causes

  • Inflammation has many causes:
    • Microorganisms and helminths (parasites).
    • Trauma
    • Mechanical, thermal, and chemical agents.
    • Some immune reactions
      • Hypersensitivity/ allergy.
    • Malignant neoplasms.