Bólguviðbragð

Bólguviðbragð is an Icelandic term that translates to inflammatory response in English. It refers to the body's complex biological reaction to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. This process is a crucial part of the immune system's defense mechanism, aiming to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues damaged from the original insult and the acute response, and initiate tissue repair.

The inflammatory response is characterized by several cardinal signs: redness (rubor), heat (calor), swelling (tumor), pain (dolor), and loss of function (functio laesa). These signs are a direct result of physiological changes occurring at the site of injury. Blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow to the area, which causes redness and heat. Increased vascular permeability allows fluid and immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, to move from the bloodstream into the affected tissue, leading to swelling. These immune cells then work to neutralize and remove the harmful stimuli. Pain can be caused by the pressure of swelling, as well as by the release of chemical mediators that sensitize nerve endings.

Acute inflammation is a short-term process that resolves once the stimulus is removed. However, if the inflammatory process is prolonged or does not resolve, it can lead to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to various diseases and tissue damage. Understanding the bólguviðbragð is fundamental to comprehending many medical conditions and developing therapeutic strategies.