Immunological and immunopathological mechanisms of inflammation

Inflammation - the response of tissues to the presence of micro-organisms o r to injury is a vital protective mechanism that eliminates and/or neutrali zes pathological agents, enhances tissue defenses and initiates repair of d amaged cells and tissues. The dynamic balance at the site of micro-bacteria l invasion of tissue is realized by close cooperation of the structural ele ments of blood vessels, phagocytes, antibodies and complementary components . Self-regulation mechanisms play a key role in processes that localize and eliminate invaders and help initiate repair of tissue damage. Nervous, end ocrine and immune systems effectively control mechanisms activating and res training inflammation. Both primary and secondary disturbances of mechanism s regulating the course and intensity of inflammation may lead to disease.