Which of the following is NOT considered a cardinal symptom of inflammation?

The correct choice, which is considered NOT a cardinal symptom of inflammation, is Algor. The cardinal symptoms of inflammation are typically recognized as redness, heat, swelling, and pain. Each of these symptoms represents an integral aspect of the body's response to injury or infection.

Redness occurs due to increased blood flow to the affected area, mediated by vasodilation of blood vessels. Heat arises from the increased metabolic activity and blood flow, allowing the area to become warmer than normal. Pain results from the release of chemical mediators (like prostaglandins) that stimulate nerve endings, leading to an awareness of discomfort and distress.

Algor, corresponding to a decrease in temperature, is not recognized as a cardinal sign of inflammation. Instead, inflammation usually brings about localized warmth and redness, indicating an active physiological response rather than a cooling effect. Therefore, understanding the traditional signs of inflammation, which include redness, heat, swelling, and pain (without Algor), is fundamental for recognizing and diagnosing inflammatory processes in the body.