Inflammatory Response

Local damage or irritants cause inflammation at a wound site. Inflammation is characterised by redness and swelling.Mast cells produce histamines and cytokines. This dilates blood vessels causing heat and redness.Histamines also cause capillaries to become more leaky than usual. Blood plasma is forced out through the gaps in the capillary walls under hydrostatic pressure. This causes oedema and pain.Cytokines recruit phagocytes to the area to engulf pathogens by phagocytosis.Widespread inflammation can cause a whole body rash.