Endodontics · single question
The exudate from a dental fistula (sinus tract) draining a chronic periapical abscess is primarily composed of which cells?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Neutrophils (PMNs)
- A. Eosinophils are elevated in allergic reactions and parasitic infections — not in typical bacterial abscess drainage.
- B. Plasma cells are terminally differentiated B cells that produce antibodies — they are present in chronic granulomas but not the dominant cell in draining pus.
- C. Lymphocytes predominate in CHRONIC granulomatous inflammation and chronic lesion cores (like periapical granulomas) — but not in the acute drainage exudate.
- D. Neutrophils (polymorphonuclear leukocytes) are the FIRST responders to bacterial infection and form pus. The exudate draining from a sinus tract/fistula is primarily composed of PMNs (neutrophils), bacteria, and cellular debris. ✓