Acute phase (AP)

The acute phase refers to the initial stage of a condition or response, particularly in medicine and biology. During this phase, symptoms are often most severe, and the body's physiological reactions are heightened, as it tries to address an injury, infection, or illness. This phase is characterized by quick changes, like inflammation or fever, aimed at protecting the body and starting the healing process. Understanding the acute phase is essential in diagnosing and managing illnesses, as it helps healthcare professionals develop appropriate treatments based on how the body is reacting at that moment.