Sickness behavior
Sickness behavior
Sickness behavior is a coordinated set of adaptive behavioral changes that develop in ill individuals during the course of an infection[1].
Pronunciation
/sɪknɪs biːheɪvjər/
Etymology
The term "sickness behavior" is derived from the English words "sickness" and "behavior". "Sickness" comes from the Old English "sēocnes" meaning illness, and "behavior" comes from the late 15th century English "behave", which means to conduct oneself in a certain manner.
Description
Sickness behavior is a motivational state that reorganizes the organism's priorities to cope with infectious pathogens[2]. It is characterized by lethargy, depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, sleepiness, and reduced interest in social and sexual activities. These changes in behavior and physiology are triggered by pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor.
Related Terms
- Inflammation: A protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators to remove harmful stimuli.
- Cytokines: A broad and loose category of small proteins that are important in cell signaling.
- Interleukin-1: A type of cytokine that plays an important role in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses.
- Interleukin-6: A cytokine that has both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions.
- Tumor Necrosis Factor: A cell signaling protein involved in systemic inflammation.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sickness behavior
- Wikipedia's article - Sickness behavior
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