Betændelsesprocesser

Betændelsesprocesser, also known as inflammation, are a fundamental biological response of the body's immune system to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. This process is a protective mechanism designed to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues damaged from the original insult and the acute response, and to initiate tissue repair.

The classic signs of acute inflammation are redness (rubor), swelling (tumor), heat (calor), pain (dolor), and loss of function (functio laesa). These symptoms arise from a complex interplay of cellular and molecular events. Blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow to the affected area, which causes redness and heat. Permeability of the vessels increases, allowing fluid and plasma proteins to leak into the interstitial space, leading to swelling. Immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, are recruited to the site of injury to engulf and destroy pathogens or debris through phagocytosis. Pain is often caused by the release of chemical mediators that stimulate nerve endings, and loss of function can result from pain and swelling.

While acute inflammation is a crucial defense mechanism, chronic inflammation can occur if the initial cause is not removed or if the inflammatory response itself becomes dysregulated. Chronic inflammation is characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of active inflammation, tissue destruction, and attempts at repair. This prolonged inflammatory state can contribute to a wide range of chronic diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding betændelsesprocesser is key to comprehending many disease states and developing therapeutic strategies.