Endodontics · single question
A tooth has a chronic draining sinus tract that has been present for 1 year and comes and goes. Which cells PREDOMINATE in this lesion?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Macrophages
- A. ❌ Eosinophils predominate in parasitic infections and allergic/hypersensitivity conditions — not chronic dental abscesses.
- B. ❌ Lymphocytes are present in chronic inflammation but macrophages are the predominant characterizing cell.
- C. ❌ Neutrophils predominate in ACUTE inflammation (first 24-48 hours). After 1 year of chronic drainage, the acute phase has long passed.
- D. ✅ Correct. A chronic, intermittently draining sinus tract = CHRONIC INFLAMMATION. The hallmark cell of chronic inflammation is the MACROPHAGE (along with lymphocytes and plasma cells). Macrophages dominate in established chronic lesions.