fibriosi

Fibrosis refers to the abnormal thickening and scarring of connective tissue in an organ or tissue. This process typically occurs in response to injury, inflammation, or disease, where the body's repair mechanisms go into overdrive, leading to excessive deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins. While a certain degree of fibrosis is a normal part of healing, excessive or prolonged fibrosis can impair organ function and lead to serious health conditions.

The manifestations of fibrosis are diverse and depend on the affected organ. For instance, liver fibrosis can lead to cirrhosis, a condition characterized by irreversible scarring and loss of liver function. Lung fibrosis, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, results in stiffening and reduced capacity of the lungs, making breathing difficult. Cardiac fibrosis can contribute to heart failure by stiffening the heart muscle. Skin fibrosis can manifest as keloids or hypertrophic scars.

The underlying causes of fibrosis are numerous and include chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, genetic predispositions, exposure to toxins, and prolonged inflammation. Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI, and tissue biopsy. Treatment strategies aim to address the underlying cause, reduce inflammation, and, in some cases, slow down or reverse the fibrotic process. However, complete reversal of established fibrosis can be challenging, making early detection and intervention crucial.