Overview
Clinical Meaning
Chronic inflammation occurs when the acute inflammatory response fails to resolve, driven by persistent infection, autoimmune reactions, or prolonged exposure to irritants.
WHNP
WHNP
Chronic inflammation occurs when the acute inflammatory response fails to resolve, driven by persistent infection, autoimmune reactions, or prolonged exposure to irritants. Unlike acute inflammation (neutrophil-mediated, resolves in days), chronic inflammation is characterized by simultaneous tissue destruction and repair involving macrophages, lymphocytes, and fibroblasts. Activated M1 macrophages release pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6), reactive oxygen species, and matrix metalloproteinases that cause ongoing tissue damage. Fibroblasts deposit collagen, leading to fibrosis and organ dysfunction. Chronic inflammation underlies atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
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