OBESIDADE: UMA DOENÇA INFLAMATÓRIA

Abstract

Introduction: Inflammation of adipose tissue in obesity has taken a new approach to this epidemic disease and seems to be related to the pathogenesis of their co-morbidities. Objective: To discuss about obesity and to show new insights of its inflammatory character. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was based on the collection of full text review articles in humans, published in English, contained in PubMed, in the last five years, with the keywords "obesity", "adipokines" and "inflammation". Results: A compilation of 180 articles were found and strengthens the proposition of obesity as an inflammatory disease, proven by increased pro-inflammatory adipokines in adipose tissue of human obese, like TNF-, IL-6, CRP, MCP-1, leptin and resistin. The scientific literature is also convincing regarding the association of inflammation with the appearance or worsening of obesity comorbidities, especially type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: Despite the advances, many mechanisms involved in adipose tissue inflammation and its effects need to be clarified. Thus, research in this field should be encouraged for better grounding of the measures of health promotion, prevention and treatment of obesity and its comorbidities.