tulehduksella

Tulehdus is the Finnish word for inflammation. It is a fundamental biological response of the body's immune system to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. Inflammation is a protective response, designed 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 the process of tissue repair.

The cardinal signs of acute inflammation are redness (rubor), heat (calor), swelling (tumor), pain (dolor), and loss of function (functio laesa). These signs are caused by a complex series of physiological events, including vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and the migration of leukocytes (white blood cells) to the site of injury.

Inflammation can be classified as acute or chronic. Acute inflammation is a rapid response that develops over minutes to days and is characterized by the presence of neutrophils. Chronic inflammation develops more slowly, over days to weeks, and is characterized by the presence of lymphocytes and macrophages. Chronic inflammation can result from persistent infections, prolonged exposure to toxic agents, or autoimmune diseases.

While inflammation is a crucial defense mechanism, uncontrolled or prolonged inflammation can lead to tissue damage and contribute to the development of various diseases, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of inflammation is vital for developing effective treatments for these conditions.