Pathophysiology In-Depth Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts in pathophysiology such as ischemia, necrosis, apoptosis, and cancer development.

Ischemia

A reduction in blood flow to tissues, leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery.

Anaerobic Metabolism

Metabolic process that occurs when oxygen supply drops, resulting in lactic acid buildup and decreased energy production.

Necrosis

Uncontrolled cell death caused by severe injury such as prolonged ischemia, trauma, infection, toxins, or radiation.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs normally to maintain tissue health and remove damaged cells.

Atrophy

A decrease in cell size and sometimes number, leading to tissue shrinkage.

Anaphylactic Shock

A severe allergic reaction triggered by allergens that can lead to symptoms like vasodilation, airway swelling, and hypotension.

Cancer Development

A process that develops through stages including initiation (DNA mutation), promotion (abnormal cell multiplication), and progression (malignant transformation and spread).

Cancer Staging

The classification of cancer spread: Stage 0 (localized in situ), Stage I (small localized tumor), Stage II (larger with limited spread), Stage III (lymph node involvement), and Stage IV (metastasis to distant organs).