What is a significant long-term possibility if a retained cactus spine fragment cannot be eliminated by the body?
Answer
The development of a granulomatous reaction, forming a small nodule or lump.
When the immune system recognizes a foreign body, such as a deeply lodged cactus spine fragment that it cannot eradicate through standard inflammatory processes, it may resort to a chronic defense strategy. This strategy involves isolating the irritant by forming a granuloma. A granulomatous reaction is essentially a localized walling-off process where immune cells cluster tightly around the persistent foreign material, creating a firm nodule or lump deep within the tissue. These formations can persist for weeks or months, often remaining tender and sometimes requiring medical procedures if they become problematic or do not resolve naturally.
Related Questions
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