Why does liquefactive necrosis occur in a myocardial infarction if it is complicated by a secondary bacterial infection?
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Correct answer: The bacteria attract neutrophils which release hydrolytic enzymes
While an uncomplicated myocardial infarction leads to coagulative necrosis, a secondary bacterial infection (septic infarction) brings in neutrophils. These inflammatory cells release potent hydrolytic enzymes that digest the tissue, shifting the pattern toward liquefactive necrosis.
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