Inflammation is a biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli such as pathogens (germs), damaged cells, or irritants. It is a part of the body's immune system reaction to injury, infection, or harmful agents, serving as a protective mechanism to eliminate the cause of cell injury, clear out damaged cells and tissues, and initiate tissue repair. There are two main types of inflammation:
- Acute Inflammation: This is the initial, short-term response to injury or infection. It involves increased movement of immune cells and plasma to the affected tissues. It typically has the five cardinal signs: heat, pain, redness, swelling, and loss of function. Acute inflammation helps contain and resolve damage or infection.
- Chronic Inflammation: When inflammation persists over a long period, it becomes chronic. This can lead to a simultaneous process of tissue destruction and healing. Chronic inflammation is associated with various diseases such as hay fever, atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, and autoimmune diseases.
Inflammation involves immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators like cytokines and hormones (e.g., histamine, bradykinin) that increase blood flow, cause swelling, and stimulate pain to protect the affected area. While inflammation is essential for healing and defense, excessive or uncontrolled inflammation can be harmful and contributes to many chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. In summary, inflammation is the body's natural and protective response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli, designed to heal and defend. However, it needs to be balanced, as too little or too much inflammation can both cause problems. This explanation captures the essence of inflammation from immune response and clinical perspectives.
