Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Systemic response to inflammation

SYSTEMIC RESPONSE TO INFLAMMATION


The inflammatory response is often confined to the site, causing only local s/Sx. However, systemic responses can also occur.

Fever is the most common sign of a systemic response to injury, and it most likely caused by endogenous pyrogens (internal substances that cause fever released from neutrophils and macrophages). These substances reset the hypothalamic thermostat, which controls body temperature, and produce fever. Leukocytosis, an increase in the synthesis and release of neutrophils from bone marrow, may occur to provide the body with greater ability to fight infection. general nonspecific symptoms develop, including malaise, loss of appetite, aching, and weakness.


Local effects:
  • erythema
  • warmth
  • edema
  • pain
  • impaired functioning

Systemic effects:

  • Fever
  • leukocytosis
  • malaise
  • anorexia
  • sepsis

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