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.