Question

One month after an appendectomy, a 25-year-old woman palpates a small nodule beneath the skin at the site of the healed right lower quadrant incision. The nodule is excised, and microscopic examination shows macrophages, collagen, a few small lymphocytes, and multinucleated giant cells. Polarizable, refractile material is seen in the nodule. Which of the following complications of the surgery best accounts for these findings? a. Scar • b. Abscess formation C. Chronic inflammation d. Ulceration • e. Edema

Answer 1

The best explanation for the findings described is scar tissue formed after the appendectomy incision heals. Therefore, the correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best explanation for the findings described in the question is scar tissue.After an appendectomy, the incision site heals by the formation of scar tissue. Scar tissue is composed of collagen and is usually paler in color compared to surrounding tissue. It may also contain macrophages and multinucleated giant cells, which are involved in the removal of cellular debris and foreign material. The polarizable, refractile material seen in the nodule could be indicative of collagen fibers present in scar tissue. Therefore, the correct option is A.