Cell Injury & Adaptations: A Complete Guide for Dental Students
Understanding cell injury and adaptation is fundamental for comprehending the pathogenesis of many oral and systemic diseases. This guide provides a detailed and exam-oriented overview of the mechanisms, types, and morphological features of cellular responses to stress, specifically tailored for dental students preparing for NEET MDS, NBDE, INI-CET, ORE, ADC, and BDS/DDS exams.
INTRODUCTION TO CELL STRESS
Cells are constantly exposed to various physical, chemical, and biological stresses. When stress exceeds their adaptive capacity, they undergo injury, which can be reversible or irreversible. Recognizing these processes helps in early diagnosis and effective management of oral diseases and informs our understanding of tissue responses in dental practice.
📌Reversible Cell Injury
Reversible injury occurs when cells experience mild stress, leading to temporary functional and morphological changes, such as cellular swelling and fatty change. These alterations can revert to normal once the stressor is removed. Key features include:
Cellular swelling due to ionic and water imbalance
Fatty change (steatosis) in liver or other tissues
Preservation of membrane integrity and organelle function.
📌Irreversible Cell Injury
Irreversible injury results in cell death, characterized by profound structural damage. Once membranes lose integrity or mitochondria are severely damaged, necrosis or apoptosis ensues, leading to tissue necrosis or programmed cell death, respectively.
🔹Necrosis: Types and Morphology
