What is a hallmark characteristic of chronic inflammation?

• A. Rapid resolution of tissue damage
• B. Presence of neutrophils
• C. Formation of fibrous scar tissue
• D. Absence of macrophages

Answer: (C)

Chronic inflammation is characterized by a prolonged inflammatory response, which is distinct from acute inflammation. One hallmark of this type of inflammation is the formation of fibrous scar tissue, also known as fibrosis. This occurs as a result of the ongoing tissue damage and the body’s subsequent attempt to heal itself. In chronic inflammation, the persistence of inflammatory stimuli leads to continuous inflammation and repair processes, which invoke fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition, ultimately resulting in fibrous tissue formation.

In contrast, rapid resolution of tissue damage is more typical of acute inflammation, where the body efficiently compartmentalizes and repairs injury. The presence of neutrophils is also characteristic of acute inflammation, as these cells are the first responders to sites of infection or injury. In chronic inflammation, other immune cells, particularly macrophages, play leading roles in sustaining the inflammatory response and facilitating tissue repair. Therefore, the absence of macrophages would not be indicative of chronic inflammation, as they are integral to its process.