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Cardiac Inflammation

Meaning

Cardiac inflammation refers to the activation of the innate and adaptive immune response within the heart muscle, pericardium, or endocardium, representing an underlying pathology. This process involves the infiltration of immune cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can lead to tissue damage and functional impairment of the cardiac structures. While acute inflammation is a protective response to injury or infection, chronic, low-grade cardiac inflammation is strongly implicated in the progression of various cardiovascular diseases. The systemic hormonal environment significantly influences the severity and persistence of this inflammatory state, impacting heart health.