What is the Origin of Adipose Inflammation?

The term is derived from adeps, the Latin root for fat, and inflammatio, meaning to set on fire, reflecting the tissue's immunological response. It originates from the clinical observation that obesity is often accompanied by elevated systemic inflammatory markers. The concept is central to understanding the pathology of cardiometabolic diseases.

What is the Mechanism of Adipose Inflammation?

Hypertrophied adipocytes, resulting from caloric excess, become stressed and release pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6. This chemical signaling recruits immune cells, initiating a local inflammatory cascade within the fat tissue. This process impairs insulin signaling in peripheral tissues, leading to insulin resistance and subsequent dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism.

Adipose Inflammation ∞ Area

Adipose Inflammation

Meaning

A chronic, low-grade inflammatory state within the body’s adipose tissue, or fat cells. This condition is characterized by the infiltration of immune cells, such as macrophages, into the fat tissue. Adipose inflammation represents a key physiological link between excess adiposity and the development of metabolic dysfunction. It disrupts the normal secretory function of adipokines, which are crucial for systemic hormonal balance.