Which substances are important in limiting exudates and swelling?

The substances that play a crucial role in limiting exudates and swelling include histamine, leukotrienes, and cytokines.

Histamine, usually released from mast cells and basophils during an inflammatory response, helps regulate vascular permeability. While it initially causes vessels to become more permeable (leading to swelling), it also plays a part in the later stages of the inflammatory response by facilitating the arrival of other immune cells that help organize tissue repair and mitigate excessive exudate.

Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators that contribute to various stages of the inflammatory response, including bronchoconstriction and increased vascular permeability, but they also have roles in regulating the movement of immune cells to the site of injury or infection, which assists in healing and reducing swelling.

Cytokines, which are small signaling proteins released by cells, coordinate the immune response. Some cytokines help regulate inflammation and tissue repair processes, ensuring that while the initial response includes swelling to allow immune access, the overall process is controlled to prevent excessive inflammation and exudate formation.

Together, these substances work collaboratively to not only initiate an inflammatory response but also to control and limit it, ensuring that healing occurs effectively without leading to chronic inflammation or excessive swelling.