Inflammation

fundamental pathologic process consisting of a dynamic complex of cytologic and chemical reactions that occur in the affected blood vessels and adjacent tissues in response to an injury or abnormal stimulation caused by a physical, chemical, or biologic agent, including
 * 1) the local reactions and resulting morphologic changes
 * 2) the destruction or removal of the injurious material
 * 3) the responses that lead to repair and healing

Description
The so-called “cardinal signs” of inflammation are: rubor, redness; calor, heat (or warmth); tumor, swelling; and dolor, pain; a fifth sign, functio laesa, inhibited or lost function, is sometimes added. All of the signs may be observed in certain instances, but no one of them is necessarily always present.