Põletikuhaigused

Põletikuhaigused are a group of medical conditions characterized by inflammation. Inflammation is the body's complex biological response to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is a protective response intended to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues damaged as a result of the original insult and the acute response, and to initiate tissue repair. While acute inflammation is a vital defense mechanism, chronic inflammation can lead to a range of debilitating diseases.

Common causes of inflammation include infections (viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic), autoimmune disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, exposure to toxins or irritants, and physical injuries. The signs of acute inflammation are typically redness (rubor), heat (calor), swelling (tumor), pain (dolor), and loss of function (functio laesa). In chronic inflammation, these signs may be less pronounced or absent, but persistent tissue damage and fibrosis can occur.

Examples of põletikuhaigused include arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis), inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), asthma, dermatitis, and various forms of cardiovascular disease where inflammation plays a significant role. Diagnosis often involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, laboratory tests (such as blood tests for inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and imaging techniques. Treatment strategies aim to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and address the underlying cause. These can include medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and lifestyle modifications.