Pathophysiology Exam 1: Cellular Pathology, Homeostasis & Adaptation

Vocabulary flashcards covering Module 1: Homeostasis, Allostasis, Sequelae vs. Complications, and Cellular Adaptations from the Pathophysiology Exam 1 Study Guide.

Homeostasis

The dynamic equilibrium maintained within the body's internal environment within narrow baseline variables such as blood pressure, $O_2$, temperature, and pH.

Allostasis

The body's active process of achieving stability through physiological change by establishing new set points tailored to ongoing environmental demands.

Allostatic Load

The sustained cumulative wear and tear on the body from continuous adaptation, resulting in organ systemic decompensation or chronic disease conditions.

Sequelae

Expected, direct outcomes that predictably result from a primary disease process (e.g., muscle loss from long-term bed rest or leg casting).

Complication

Unintended, secondary adverse events or secondary conditions arising from a primary damage or disease process (e.g., surgical wound infection following leg surgery).

Atrophy

A cellular adaptation characterized by a decrease in cell size and function, caused by disuse, denervation, ischemia, or nutrient loss.

Hypertrophy

A cellular adaptation characterized by an increase in cell size/enlargement due to increased functional demand or hormonal stimulation.

Hyperplasia

A cellular adaptation characterized by an increase in cell number/count driven by increased growth factors or hormonal stimulation.

Metaplasia

A cellular adaptation involving the reversible replacement of one adult cell type with another cell type, caused by chronic irritation or inflammation.

Dysplasia

A cellular adaptation characterized by disordered cell growth with abnormal size, shape, and organization; precancerous and caused by severe chronic irritation.