What is the term for an increase in the number of white blood cells, often as a result of infection or inflammation?

Rationale:

A. Keloids are raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound. They result from excessive collagen deposition during the healing process and can cause cosmetic concerns, itching, and discomfort.

B. Adhesions are bands of fibrous scar tissue that can form between internal organs or tissues following surgery, injury, or severe burns. They can restrict organ movement, cause pain, or lead to complications such as bowel obstruction, depending on their location.

C. Contractures occur when scar tissue tightens during healing, limiting joint mobility. This is a common complication of deep partial-thickness or full-thickness burns and can lead to functional impairment if not managed with physical therapy, splinting, or surgical intervention.

D. Excessive scar formation does not cause increased hair growth. In fact, scar tissue often lacks hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands, resulting in areas that may be hairless and less functional.

E. Scar tissue is generally less elastic than normal skin due to dense collagen deposition and abnormal alignment of fibers. Excessive scarring can lead to stiffness and limited flexibility rather than enhanced elasticity.

Rationale:

A. In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the kidneys lose the ability to produce sufficient erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. Without adequate EPO, erythropoiesis is impaired, leading to a reduced number of circulating red blood cells and anemia. This anemia is typically normocytic and normochromic, meaning the red blood cells are of normal size and color but decreased in number.

B. ESRD does not reduce red blood cell destruction. In fact, uremic toxins in ESRD may actually shorten the lifespan of red blood cells, contributing further to anemia rather than preventing it.

C. Increased erythropoietin production is incorrect. In ESRD, erythropoietin production is diminished, not increased. The lack of EPO is the primary reason for decreased red blood cell production in these patients.

D. Elevated hemoglobin levels is incorrect. Hemoglobin levels are typically decreased in ESRD due to the reduced erythropoiesis and shortened red blood cell lifespan. Elevated hemoglobin is not a feature of anemia associated with kidney disease.