Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026

Controlled Cortical Impact Model for Traumatic Brain Injury
Published on: August 5, 2014
The inflammatory reaction in human traumatic oedematous cerebral cortex
O J Castejón1, A Castellano, G J Arismendi
1Institute of Biological Investigations, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela. ocastejo@cantv.net
Abstract:
The inflammatory reaction surrounding hemorrhagic and perihematomal brain parenchyma has been studied by means of light and transmission electron microscopy in 12 patients with severe traumatic head injuries complicated with subdural or extradural hematoma or hygroma. Perivascular cells, ameboid phagocytic microglial cells, and infiltrated macrophage/monocyte system were observed surrounding perivascular and intraparenchymal hemorrhagic foci. They showed phagocytic activity of degenerated nerve cell processes, and organized proteinaceous edema fluid present in the enlarged extracellular space. Endocytosis by means of clathrin coated vesicles also was observed. Facultative and professional phagocytes exhibited a full repertoire of lysosomes, phagosomes containing nerve cell debris, lipid droplets, and lipofucsin granules. Phagocytic pericytes remaining within the capillary basement membrane were also observed around perivascular hemorrhages. The inflammatory reaction was examined in young and old patients with an evolution time of brain injury ranging from 1 day to 2 years. The inflammatory process developed according to the intensity of traumatic insult, patient age, associated hematoma or hygroma, severity of vasogenic and cytotoxic oedema, and anoxic-ischemic conditions of brain parenchyma.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Response I: Vascular and Cellular
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema l: Introduction
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology
Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology

