Which stage of inflammation is characterized by increased blood flow and capillary permeability?

The stage of inflammation characterized by increased blood flow and capillary permeability is the vascular response. This initial phase of inflammation occurs immediately after tissue injury and is crucial for initiating the inflammatory process.

During the vascular response, the body's blood vessels dilate (a process known as vasodilation), leading to an increase in blood flow to the affected area. This increased blood flow is responsible for the redness and warmth often observed in inflamed tissues. Additionally, the permeability of the capillaries increases, which allows proteins, fluids, and immune cells to exit the bloodstream and enter the damaged tissue. This accumulation of fluids and immune components is essential for containing the injury, starting the healing process, and facilitating the arrival of leukocytes to combat any pathogens.

Understanding the vascular response is fundamental in pathology, as it sets the stage for subsequent responses in the inflammatory process, including the cellular response. In contrast, the cellular response focuses more on the activities of white blood cells and the specific immune reactions that follow the vascular changes. The resolution phase pertains to the processes that lead to the conclusion of inflammation, while the repair phase involves tissue healing and regeneration. Each of these stages follows the vascular response, which lays the groundwork for effective healing and recovery.