Reversible and Irreversible Cell Injury · Pathology

What is the primary mechanism leading to cellular swelling in hypoxic cell injury?

  1. Increased intracellular protein synthesis
  2. Efflux of potassium into the extracellular space
  3. Activation of the Na+/K+ ATPase pump
  4. Failure of the ATP-dependent sodium pump
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Correct answer: Failure of the ATP-dependent sodium pump

Hypoxia leads to reduced ATP production. Without ATP, the Na+/K+ pump fails, causing sodium to accumulate inside the cell; this creates an osmotic gradient that draws water into the cell, causing swelling.

Difficulty: Medium Question 7 of 20

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