Final answer:
Pus is comprised of dead pathogens, neutrophils, tissue fluid, and other cells killed by phagocytes at an infection site. Neutrophils are key components of pus as they are the first to respond to infection and help recruit other immune cells, leading to the formation of pus as part of the healing process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pus contains an accumulation of dead pathogens, neutrophils, tissue fluid, and other bystander cells that may have been killed by phagocytes at the site of an infection. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell and are often referred to as the first responders at the site of infection or trauma due to their role as abundant phagocytic cells, representing 50-60 percent of all leukocytes. Neutrophils release toxins to kill or inhibit bacteria and fungi and recruit other immune cells to the site of infection. As neutrophils fight off the infection by phagocytosing the pathogens, they eventually die, and their remains, along with those of the pathogens and dead tissue cells, form the visible substance known as pus. This biological process is part of the immune system's response to infection and is critical for eliminating the infection and starting the healing process.