What are the Morphological Changes in Reversible Injury?
Histologically, reversible injury is identified by several structural alterations within the cell. These include:
Cellular Swelling: This is often the earliest sign of reversible injury, caused by the failure of ion pumps in the cell membrane, leading to an influx of water. Fatty Change: Accumulation of lipid droplets within the cytoplasm, commonly observed in cells involved in lipid metabolism, such as the liver. Plasma Membrane Blebbing: Formation of membrane protrusions due to cytoskeletal disruption. Mitochondrial Swelling: Alterations in mitochondrial structure, indicating impaired energy production. Dilation of the Endoplasmic Reticulum: Expansion of the ER, reflecting disturbances in protein synthesis and transport.
