Inflammation and Infection Overview

Inflammation and Infection

• Inflammation is the body's protective response to injury or irritants.
• Infections are caused by microorganisms harming cells and tissues.
• Inflammation often precedes or accompanies infection.
• The suffix "-itis" indicates inflammation (e.g., appendicitis).

Signs of Inflammation

• Redness: Increased blood flow to the area.
• Heat: Increased blood flow and metabolic activity.
• Swelling: Fluid accumulation due to increased blood vessel permeability.
• Pain: Caused by inflammatory mediators and pressure.

Inflammatory Mediators

• Histamine, prostaglandins, and kinins are key inflammatory mediators.
• These cause blood vessel dilation, increasing blood volume (redness and heat).
• They also promote white blood cell migration and induce edema (swelling) and pain.

Types of Inflammation

• Inflammation can be local (confined to an area) or systemic (throughout the body).
• Inflammation can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
• Chronic inflammation can be damaging to tissues and can lead to diseases.

This quiz explores the concepts of inflammation and infection, explaining their definitions and interrelation. It covers signs of inflammation, the role of inflammatory mediators, and types of inflammation. Test your understanding of these essential biological processes.