fibrózishoz

Fibrosis refers to the development of excessive fibrous connective tissue in an organ or body part. This process, known as desmoplasia, is a wound healing response that can occur in various tissues following injury, inflammation, or chronic irritation. The excessive deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins leads to thickening and scarring of the affected tissue. While fibrosis is a normal part of healing in some instances, when it becomes pathological, it can impair organ function.

The causes of fibrosis are diverse and include infections, autoimmune diseases, exposure to toxins, and genetic predispositions. For example, viral hepatitis can lead to liver fibrosis, while certain lung diseases can cause pulmonary fibrosis. Fibrotic tissue is generally less functional than the original tissue, and in severe cases, it can lead to organ failure. The progression of fibrosis is often gradual and can be asymptomatic in its early stages.

Diagnosis typically involves medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, and may be confirmed by a biopsy of the affected tissue. Treatment strategies aim to address the underlying cause of the fibrosis, reduce inflammation, and slow down or reverse the fibrotic process where possible. Research is ongoing to develop more effective therapies for various fibrotic conditions, focusing on modulating the cellular mechanisms involved in extracellular matrix production and degradation.