Hydropic change is the earliest morphological manifestation of reversible cell injury. A hepatocyte shows cytoplasmic vacuolation and swelling on light microscopy. Which mechanism is primarily responsible for this change?
- A Accumulation of triglycerides in the cytoplasm
- B Failure of the Na+/K+ ATPase membrane pump causing sodium and water influx ✓
- C Direct disruption of the plasma membrane by free radicals
- D Deposition of denatured proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum
Correct answer: B. Failure of the Na+/K+ ATPase membrane pump causing sodium and water influx
Explanation
Hydropic change results from failure of the Na+/K+ ATPase pump due to ATP depletion, causing intracellular accumulation of sodium and water. This is the earliest reversible injury. Triglyceride accumulation causes fatty change, not hydropic swelling. Free radical membrane disruption causes irreversible injury. Protein deposition is seen in hyaline change.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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