Emergence

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Emergence is a process where larger patterns, structures, and regularities arise through interactions among smaller or simpler entities that themselves do not exhibit such properties. In medicine, the concept of emergence is often used to describe the development of complex diseases or conditions from simpler biological interactions.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Emergence is a fundamental concept in fields such as philosophy, physics, and biology. It is often used to describe how complex systems and patterns arise out of a multiplicity of relatively simple interactions. In the context of medicine, emergence can refer to the development of diseases or conditions that are the result of complex interactions among various biological factors.

Emergence in Medicine[edit | edit source]

In the field of medicine, the concept of emergence is often used to describe the development of complex diseases or conditions. For example, cancer is often described as an emergent disease because it results from a complex interplay of genetic mutations, environmental factors, and cellular interactions. Similarly, mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can be seen as emergent phenomena, arising from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Examples of Emergence in Medicine[edit | edit source]

Cancer[edit | edit source]

Cancer is a prime example of an emergent disease. It arises from a complex interplay of genetic mutations, environmental factors, and cellular interactions. The development of cancer involves the accumulation of mutations in genes that control cell growth and division, as well as interactions with the surrounding microenvironment.

Mental Health Disorders[edit | edit source]

Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can also be seen as emergent phenomena. These conditions arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. The development of these disorders involves complex interactions among various brain regions, neurotransmitter systems, and psychological processes.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Emergence Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD