Inflammation in horses

After inflammation is initialed by detection of antigen, plasma components and activated leukocytes are concentrated at the inflammatory site. Cellula r and chemical effecters of inflammation are focused on the offending antig en, usually resulting in its destruction and elimination. Activation of end ogenous counterregulatory systems damps down the inflammatory process and i s the first stage of repair. In addition to local effects, the inflammatory focus may initiate a continuum of systemic acute phase responses ranging f rom the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) to generalized immun osuppression.