Systemic effects of acute inflammation Systemic effects of acute inflammation Apart from the local features of acute and chronic inflammation described above, an inflammatory focus produces systemic effects. Pyrexia Polymorphs and macrophages produce compounds known as endogenous pyrogens which act on the hypothalamus to set the thermoregulatory mechanisms at a higher temperature. Release of endogenous pyrogen is stimulated by phagocytosis, endotoxins and immune complexes. Constitutional symptoms Constitutional symptoms include malaise, anorexia and nausea.
Weight loss is common when there is extensive chronic inflammation.
For this reason, tuberculosis used to be called 'consumption'. Haematological changes Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate. An increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific finding in many types of inflammation.