Which process associated with cellular injury is most likely to be reversible?

• A. Karyolysis
• B. Cellular swelling (hydropic change)
• C. Apoptosis
• D. Necrosis

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of cellular injury. Cellular injury occurs when cells are exposed to stress or damage that disrupts their normal function. Some processes associated with cellular injury are reversible, while others are irreversible.
2. Step 2: Define the terms provided in the question. For example: Karyolysis refers to the dissolution of the nucleus during cell death, which is irreversible. Apoptosis is programmed cell death, a controlled and irreversible process. Necrosis is uncontrolled cell death, also irreversible. Cellular swelling (hydropic change) occurs due to the accumulation of water in the cell, often caused by dysfunction in ion pumps, and is typically reversible if the stressor is removed.
3. Step 3: Compare the reversibility of these processes. Cellular swelling (hydropic change) is reversible because it is an early response to injury and can be resolved if the underlying cause is addressed. The other processes (karyolysis, apoptosis, necrosis) involve irreversible damage to the cell structure or function.
4. Step 4: Relate cellular swelling to its mechanism. Cellular swelling occurs due to the failure of the sodium-potassium pump, leading to an influx of sodium ions and water into the cell. This process can be reversed if the pump function is restored and the stressor is eliminated.
5. Step 5: Conclude that cellular swelling (hydropic change) is the most likely reversible process associated with cellular injury, as it represents an early stage of damage that can be mitigated before progressing to irreversible injury.