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Arthritis Research & Therapy
Published in: Arthritis Research & Therapy 1/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Review

The inflammatory response in the regression of lumbar disc herniation

Authors: Carla Cunha, Ana J. Silva, Paulo Pereira, Rui Vaz, Raquel M. Gonçalves, Mário A. Barbosa

Published in: Arthritis Research & Therapy | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is highly associated with inflammation in the context of low back pain. Currently, inflammation is associated with adverse symptoms related to the stimulation of nerve fibers that may lead to pain. However, inflammation has also been indicated as the main factor responsible for LDH regression. This apparent controversy places inflammation as a good prognostic indicator of spontaneous regression of LDH. This review addresses the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in LDH regression, including matrix remodeling and neovascularization, in the scope of the clinical decision on conservative versus surgical intervention. Based on the evidence, a special focus on the inflammatory response in the LDH context is given, particularly in the monocyte/macrophage role. The phenomenon of spontaneous regression of LDH, extensively reported in the literature, is therefore analyzed here under the perspective of the modulatory role of inflammation.
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Metadata
Title
The inflammatory response in the regression of lumbar disc herniation
Authors
Carla Cunha
Ana J. Silva
Paulo Pereira
Rui Vaz
Raquel M. Gonçalves
Mário A. Barbosa
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Arthritis Research & Therapy / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1478-6362
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-018-1743-4

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