Sodium and water accumulation in an injured cell are a direct result of:

Choice A: Oncogene Activation

Oncogene activation refers to the process by which normal genes (proto-oncogenes) become oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and potentially cancer. This process involves mutations or overexpression of genes that regulate cell proliferation and survival. While oncogene activation is a critical factor in cancer development, it is not directly related to hydropic swelling, which is a form of cellular injury characterized by the accumulation of water within cells.

Choice B: Sodium/Potassium Pump Dysfunction

Hydropic swelling, also known as cellular swelling, results from the malfunction of the sodium/potassium (Na+/K+) pump. This pump is essential for maintaining the ionic balance within cells by actively transporting sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell. When the Na+/K+ pump fails, sodium accumulates inside the cell, leading to an influx of water to balance the osmotic pressure. This results in cellular swelling, which is a hallmark of reversible cell injury.

Choice C: Membrane Rupture

Membrane rupture refers to the breaking of the cell membrane, which can lead to cell death and the release of cellular contents into the surrounding tissue. This process is typically associated with irreversible cell injury and necrosis. While membrane rupture can result from severe cellular damage, it is not the primary cause of hydropic swelling, which occurs due to ionic imbalances rather than physical disruption of the cell membrane.

Choice D: ATP Accumulation

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency of the cell, used to power various cellular processes. Accumulation of ATP within the cell is not typically associated with cellular swelling. In fact, a decrease in ATP levels, rather than an accumulation, is more likely to contribute to cellular injury. Reduced ATP levels can impair the function of the Na+/K+ pump, leading to ionic imbalances and subsequent hydropic swelling.

Choice A: Decreased Respirations

Decreased respirations, or a slower breathing rate, are not typically associated with acute stress. In fact, acute stress often leads to an increase in respiratory rate as part of the body’s “fight or flight” response. This response is mediated by the autonomic nervous system, which prepares the body to respond to a perceived threat by increasing heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.

Choice B: Tachycardia

Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common indicator of acute stress. When an individual experiences acute stress, the body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones stimulate the heart to beat faster, providing more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and brain to prepare for a rapid response to the stressor. Tachycardia is a hallmark of the acute stress response and can be easily measured by checking the pulse.

Choice C: Hair Loss

Hair loss is generally associated with chronic stress rather than acute stress. Chronic stress can lead to conditions such as telogen effluvium, where hair follicles enter a resting phase and hair falls out more easily. However, this process takes time and is not an immediate response to acute stress. Therefore, hair loss is not a reliable indicator of acute stress.

Choice D: Pupil Constriction

Pupil constriction, or miosis, is not typically associated with acute stress. In fact, acute stress usually causes pupil dilation (mydriasis) as part of the “fight or flight” response. Dilated pupils allow more light to enter the eyes, improving vision and awareness of the surroundings. Pupil constriction is more commonly associated with relaxation or the body’s “rest and digest” state, mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system.