Fibrosis refers to the thickening and scarring of tissue due to an overgrowth of fibrous connective tissue. This process is often a response to injury, inflammation, or chronic disease. The resulting scar tissue is denser and less flexible than normal tissue, impacting the organ or system's function.
Understanding Fibrosis: A Deeper Look
Several sources define fibrosis as the formation of excessive fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue. This excessive tissue is typically a result of a reparative process following injury or damage. However, the underlying causes can vary significantly.
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Mechanism: Fibrosis occurs when the body attempts to repair damaged tissue. Instead of replacing the damaged tissue with healthy tissue, it produces an excess of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, leading to the formation of scar tissue. This scar tissue is stiffer and less functional than the original tissue.
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Impact: The consequences of fibrosis depend on the location and extent of the scarring. Fibrosis in vital organs like the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis), liver (hepatic fibrosis), or kidneys (renal fibrosis) can severely impair organ function, potentially leading to organ failure.
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Examples: Various conditions exhibit fibrosis, including:
- Pulmonary fibrosis: Scarring of lung tissue, making breathing difficult. See Mayo Clinic's information on Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, including lungs and pancreas, characterized by thick, sticky mucus due to fibrosis. Learn more about cystic fibrosis from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
- Submucosal fibrosis: Scarring in the submucosal layer of tissues, as seen in certain gastrointestinal conditions. See research on submucosal fibrosis in colorectal surgery
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Types: Fibrosis isn't a single disease but a process that can occur in various organs and tissues, manifesting differently depending on the location and cause.
The term "fibrosis" itself doesn't specify a disease but rather describes a pathological process. For example, pulmonary fibrosis is a specific disease characterized by lung fibrosis.
