Question

Among these which is NOT considered as cardinal sign of inflammation?

• A. Pain
• B. Redness
• C. Opsonisation
• D. Heat

Hint:

Mnemonic for cardinal signs: PRISH
Pain, Redness, Immobility (Loss of function), Swelling, Heat.
Anything describing molecular immune pathways (like opsonisation or phagocytosis) is not a cardinal sign.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the term that does not belong to the classical "cardinal signs" of inflammation, which are the primary clinical observations made during an inflammatory response in animals.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Cardinal Signs of Inflammation: The four classical signs (first described by Celsus) are:
- Rubor (Redness): Caused by increased blood flow (hyperemia) to the area.
- Calor (Heat): Due to increased metabolic activity and blood flow.
- Tumor (Swelling): Caused by the accumulation of fluid (exudate) in the extravascular space.
- Dolor (Pain): Arising from the release of chemicals that stimulate nerve endings and physical pressure from swelling.
- A fifth sign, Functio laesa (Loss of function), was later added by Virchow.

• Analysis of Options: Options (A), (B), and (D) are classical cardinal signs.

• Opsonisation: This is a biological process in the immune system where a pathogen is marked for ingestion and destruction by a phagocyte. It involves the binding of opsonins (like antibodies or complement proteins) to the surface of the pathogen. While it occurs during the immune response associated with inflammation, it is a microscopic molecular mechanism and not a "cardinal sign" visible or palpable on clinical examination.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Opsonisation is the process that is NOT considered a cardinal sign of inflammation.