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Neuroendocrine Inflammation

Meaning

Neuroendocrine inflammation describes a pathological state characterized by the reciprocal, maladaptive interaction between the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system, leading to chronic, low-grade systemic inflammation. This is a crucial concept in chronic disease, where dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathetic nervous system contributes to the persistent activation of inflammatory pathways. This interplay results in a vicious cycle where inflammatory cytokines disrupt hormonal signaling, and altered hormone levels, such as high cortisol or low thyroid hormone, perpetuate the inflammatory state. Understanding this crosstalk is essential for addressing the root cause of many chronic hormonal and metabolic disorders.