Massage & Bodywork Licensing Practice Examination (MBLEx)

Heat, redness, edema, and pain are classic signs of acute inflammation. This physiological response occurs when the body is responding to injury or infection. During acute inflammation, blood vessels in the affected area dilate, leading to increased blood flow, which causes the heat and redness. The increased permeability of the blood vessels allows fluid and immune cells to move into the tissue, resulting in edema or swelling. Pain arises from the release of inflammatory mediators that sensitize nerve endings in the injured area. This combination of symptoms reflects the body's attempt to protect itself, isolate the injured area, and initiate the healing process.

In contrast, chronic psoriasis is associated with long-term skin changes rather than the acute symptoms mentioned. Hypertrophic adhesions refer to a thickening of the tissue often related to scarring, and Raynaud's disease involves episodes of reduced blood flow to the fingers and toes, characterized by color changes, but not necessarily heat, redness, or edema.