Involution

Involution (medicine) is a process in which an organ in the body reduces in size as an initial effect of aging or during a more rapid transformation. The term is derived from the Latin word involutio, which means "a rolling up" or "folding in".

Overview[edit | edit source]

In the field of medicine, involution refers to the shrinking or return of an organ to a former size. This process can occur as a part of normal development or in response to a change in the body's needs or environment. For example, the thymus gland undergoes involution during adolescence, and the uterus undergoes involution after childbirth.

Involution in Different Organs[edit | edit source]

Thymus[edit | edit source]

The thymus gland is a lymphoid organ that plays a crucial role in the development of T cells, a type of white blood cell. The thymus undergoes involution starting at puberty, reducing in size and function over time. This process is thought to be a result of increased levels of sex hormones.

Uterus[edit | edit source]

After childbirth, the uterus undergoes a process of involution where it returns to its pre-pregnancy size. This process typically takes six to eight weeks and involves the shedding of the endometrial lining and the contraction of the uterine muscles.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Involution can have significant clinical implications. For example, the involution of the thymus with age is associated with a decrease in immune function, making older individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Similarly, problems with uterine involution can lead to postpartum complications such as postpartum hemorrhage and subinvolution.

References[edit | edit source]

Involution Resources
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