A patient sustains a laceration that is primarily closed. Wound healing by primary intention proceeds through the proliferative phase. Which cell type is primarily responsible for collagen synthesis during this phase?
- A Macrophages
- B Neutrophils
- C Fibroblasts ✓
- D Mast cells
Correct answer: C. Fibroblasts
Explanation
Fibroblasts are the principal collagen-synthesising cells in wound healing. During the proliferative phase (days 4-21), fibroblasts migrate into the wound, produce Type III collagen initially (replaced by Type I collagen during remodelling), and form granulation tissue along with newly sprouted capillaries. Macrophages orchestrate the response by releasing growth factors (PDGF, TGF-beta) that recruit fibroblasts. Neutrophils dominate the inflammatory phase (days 1-3). Mast cells release histamine in the early inflammatory response.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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