histology
Last reviewed 01/2018
The common histology of chronic inflammation is one of ongoing inflammation, tissue breakdown and repair. Attempts to re-establish the local host cell makeup, to lay down and remodel the extracellular matrix, are frustrated.
There is a far greater prepodonderance of macrophages, lymphocytes, plasma cells and fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are very active and fibrous connective tissue is laid down, often in a disorganised manner. Angiogenesis is prompted and new blood vessels may be seen. The products of macrophage death and turnover may themselves excite an inflammatory response resulting in local breakdown of host cells.
The basic histological pattern is modified by the surrounding tissue and disease process. Examples include:
- suppurative inflammation:
- chronic abscess
- chronic osteomyelitis
- fibrinous inflammation
- serous inflammation
- granulomatous inflammation with granulomata
- ulceration