Gewebeentzündungsgeschehen

Gewebeentzündungsgeschehen, also known as inflammation, is the body's complex biological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It 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 initiate tissue repair. This process is characterized by several cardinal signs: redness (rubor), heat (calor), swelling (tumor), pain (dolor), and loss of function (functio laesa).

The inflammatory response involves a coordinated series of events at the cellular and molecular level. Initially, there is vasodilation of local blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow and the characteristic redness and heat. This is followed by increased vascular permeability, allowing plasma proteins and leukocytes to leak from the bloodstream into the injured tissue, contributing to swelling. Leukocytes, particularly neutrophils and macrophages, then migrate to the site of injury to phagocytose (engulf) debris and pathogens. Various chemical mediators, such as histamine, prostaglandins, and cytokines, play crucial roles in orchestrating these events.

Inflammation can be broadly classified into acute and chronic forms. Acute inflammation is a rapid, short-term response that resolves once the offending agent is removed. Chronic inflammation, however, is a prolonged and often less intense response that can persist for months or years and may lead to significant tissue damage and fibrosis. Causes of chronic inflammation include persistent infections, prolonged exposure to toxins, and autoimmune diseases. While inflammation is a vital defense mechanism, uncontrolled or excessive inflammation can contribute to a wide range of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and cancer.