Acute Phase Reactants

Acute phase reactants

Proteins synthesized by liver during acute phase of inflammation
Triggered by IL-6, IL-1, and TNF-alpha
Enhances inflammation by making soluble mediators and fibrinogen

APRs

Fibrinogen (coagulation), C3 (complement) CRP (complement activation and opsonization)

Transudates/Exudates

Fluid that accumulates in/on tissues or cavities during inflammation
Composition helps determine etiology and severity

Transudates

Caused by fluid movement through leaky vessels
Clear appearance, low protein
ex. Blisters and tear like fluids

Fibrinous exudate

High protein content (esp fibrinogen)
Occurs on mucous membranes and in cavities
ex. Anterior uveitis, pseudomembrane in Steven-Johnson syndrome

Purulent exudate

Contains WBCs, bacteria, and dead cells
Caused by staph and strep
ex. Abscess, cellulitis, bact conjunctivitis, hypopyon

Flare

Light scattering