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Systemic Compensatory Mechanisms

Meaning

Systemic Compensatory Mechanisms are the intricate, self-regulating physiological processes activated across multiple organ systems to maintain overall internal stability, or homeostasis, in response to a pathological challenge or stressor. These adaptive reactions, which often involve the neuroendocrine and autonomic nervous systems, initially restore balance but can become maladaptive or exhaust the system if the underlying stress is chronic. Clinicians must recognize these mechanisms, as they often mask the severity of the primary dysfunction.