Abstract
Objective. Inflammation is the body’s natural defence mechanism against factors that damage its tissues. However, if it lasts chronically, it may adversely affect the body’s homeostasis. Inflammation is not only a long-known risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and its complications, but also develops brain tissue damage in the course of ischemic stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage, leading to even greater damage. In addition, the immune system functions are impaired, which increases the risk of infection.
Literature review. Drugs that can reduce the risk of stroke by inhibiting vascular damage and modifying the inflammatory process in the central nervous system, including counteracting the risk of infection, have become the subject of many experimental and clinical studies on strokes. Such drugs include canakinumab, human recombinant interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, colchicine, fingolimod, siponimod or natalizumab.
Conclusions. Considering all available research results, the therapeutic pathway using anti-inflammatory drugs has a high potential; however, the complications associated with evoked immunosuppression in patients should be kept in mind. The paper presents a review of the literature on the role of the inflammatory process in the pathogenesis of stroke as well as related therapeutic options.