Which type of inflammation is defined as being long-term?

Chronic inflammation is characterized by a prolonged duration, often lasting for weeks, months, or even years. It is a response that can occur when the body attempts to heal after an injury or infection but fails to resolve the issue effectively. This can lead to persistent inflammation, which can result in tissue damage and changes in the affected area.

Chronic inflammation typically involves a shift in the types of cells present in the inflammatory site, where mononuclear cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages become predominant, contrasting with acute inflammation, where neutrophils are the primary responders. The long-term nature of chronic inflammation is important in various medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases, chronic infections, and long-lasting irritants.

Understanding this definition is key as it helps distinguish it from other types of inflammation, which may be more transient or localized. For example, acute inflammation occurs as a quick response to an injury or infection, while localized inflammation refers to inflammation confined to a specific area. Exudative inflammation involves the presence of exudates like pus, typically associated with acute inflammatory processes.