Cutaneous inflammation

Abstract

Inflammation is a protective response of the host to harmful stimuli, such as microorganisms, damaged cells, chemical and physical irritants. A cascade of biochemical events propagates and matures the inflammatory response, involving the local vascular system, the immune system, and various cells within the injured tissue. Inflammation can be classified as either acute or chronic. Acute inflammation is the initial response of the body to harmful stimuli and is achieved by the increased movement of plasma and leukocytes. The classical signs of acute inflammation are pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. Prolonged inflammation, known as chronic inflammation, leads to a progressive shift in the type of cells present at the site of inflammation and is characterized by simultaneous destruction and hearing of the tissue. Characteristics of the tissue and the injurious agent determine the outcome of inflammation, such as healing, fibrosis and leading to chronic inflammation. Inappropriate inflammation can lead to destruction of tissues in chronic inflammatory disorders.