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Question 297
Physiology → Haematology
Classification
Question
SSBAOptions
Explanation
Neutrophils are present in high concentrations in pus. Consequently, little pus may be produced in neutropenia despite infection. Neutrophils also kill and digest bacteria using proteolytic enzymes and toxic oxygen metabolites.
Option Validity
A) Basophils contain histamine and heparin in their coarse granules, but they are not the principal cells in pus. Neutrophils are specifically associated with pus formation.
C) Eosinophils are particularly associated with parasitic infestation, allergy and mucosal immunity. They are not necessary for pus formation.
D) Lymphocytes are associated with cellular and humoral immunity rather than being the principal cellular basis of pus. Serotonin is a constituent of platelet dense granules.
E) Monocytes do not prevent neutrophil migration. Both mononuclear phagocytes and neutrophils participate in the host response to bacterial infection.
Further Reading
Saxena. Textbook for MRCOG-1. Physiology - Haematology - Neutrophils, p.69.