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Low-Grade Inflammation

Meaning

Low-grade inflammation, also clinically termed chronic systemic inflammation, is a persistent, subclinical elevation of circulating pro-inflammatory mediators, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and various cytokines, without the overt, localized signs of acute infection or injury. This subtle, continuous immune activation is a fundamental, non-infectious driver of numerous age-related chronic pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and neurodegenerative disorders. It represents a maladaptive, sustained activation of the innate immune system.