Which one of the listed statements is the best histologic definition of an abscess?: (A) A circumscribed collection of neutrophils with necrotic cellular debris, (B) A localized defect that results from the sloughing of necrotic inflammatory tissue from the surface of an organ, (C) A localized proliferation of fibroblasts and small blood vessels, (D) An aggregate of two or more activated macrophages
Answer is A. An abscess is a localized collection of neutrophils and necrotic debris. It is basically a localized form of suppurative (purulent) inflammation, which is associated with pyogenic bacteria and is characterized by edema fluid admixed with neutrophils and necrotic cells (liquefactive necrosis or pus).