Inflammation mnemonic

Cardinal signs of acute inflammation

The mnemonic

Rubor, Calor, Tumor, Dolor, Functio laesa

What each word stands for

  • RuborRedness, from vasodilatation
  • CalorHeat, from increased blood flow
  • TumorSwelling, from exudation
  • DolorPain, from mediators such as bradykinin and prostaglandins
  • Functio laesaLoss of function (added by Virchow)

Why it matters clinically

Useful to describe any acute inflammatory process, such as an abscess or cellulitis.

Where it stops being reliable

Describes the gross appearance only. It says nothing about the cellular events, mediators or chronic inflammation.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Inflammation mnemonic?

Rubor, Calor, Tumor, Dolor, Functio laesa. It helps you recall: Cardinal signs of acute inflammation.

What does "Rubor" stand for?

Redness, from vasodilatation

What does "Calor" stand for?

Heat, from increased blood flow

What does "Tumor" stand for?

Swelling, from exudation

What are all the parts of the Rubor, Calor, Tumor, Dolor, Functio laesa mnemonic?

Rubor: Redness, from vasodilatation; Calor: Heat, from increased blood flow; Tumor: Swelling, from exudation; Dolor: Pain, from mediators such as bradykinin and prostaglandins; Functio laesa: Loss of function (added by Virchow).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Inflammation in Pathology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Describes the gross appearance only. It says nothing about the cellular events, mediators or chronic inflammation.

How is this useful clinically?

Useful to describe any acute inflammatory process, such as an abscess or cellulitis.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pathology question about Inflammation.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.