Acute inflammation
Definition
Acute inflammation is the immediate and early response of the body to harmful stimuli like pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It aims to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues, and establish a repair process.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Acute inflammation involves vascular changes, such as increased blood flow and permeability.
- The main cellular components of acute inflammation are neutrophils.
- Key signs of acute inflammation include redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function.
- Chemical mediators like histamine, prostaglandins, and cytokines play crucial roles in the inflammatory response.
- Acute inflammation typically resolves within a few days but can lead to chronic inflammation if not adequately controlled.
Review Questions
- What are the primary signs of acute inflammation?
- Which type of white blood cell is most involved in acute inflammation?
- Name two chemical mediators that are essential in the process of acute inflammation.
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Related terms
Chronic Inflammation: A prolonged inflammatory response lasting for weeks or months due to persistent irritants.
Histamine: A chemical mediator released by mast cells that increases vascular permeability during inflammation.
Neutrophils: A type of white blood cell that is one of the first responders to sites of infection or injury.
