Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

In the inflammation stage of healing, which cells are responsible for angiogenesis and collagen formation?

1. True

2. Fibroblasts

3. Basophils

4. Eosinophils

The correct answer is: Fibroblasts

During the inflammation stage of healing, fibroblasts play a critical role in both angiogenesis and collagen formation. These cells are essential for the repair process as they help to create new connective tissue and facilitate the formation of new blood vessels, which is vital for providing oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissue. Fibroblasts synthesize collagen and extracellular matrix components that are crucial for tissue strength and structure. Their activity is a response to various growth factors released during inflammation, promoting healing and recovery from injury. While other cells such as basophils and eosinophils have functions in the immune system, they are not primarily involved in the processes of angiogenesis and collagen formation during the inflammation stage. Basophils are mainly involved in allergic responses and may release histamine, while eosinophils are primarily associated with parasitic infections and allergic reactions. Thus, fibroblasts are uniquely positioned to drive the healing process through their ability to promote blood vessel formation and produce collagen, making them key players in wound healing.