During the inflammatory phase of wound healing, which events occur?

• A. Mast cells released and a blood clot forms
• B. Scab forms and basal cells migrate to replace missing cells
• C. Deeper part of clot disappears
• D. Scab is shed and scar tissue elevates epidermis

Answer: (A)

In the inflammatory phase, the body focuses on stopping bleeding and defending the tissue. Mast cells release histamine and other mediators, which increase blood vessel permeability and attract immune cells. At the same time, platelets form a blood clot that seals the wound and provides a temporary matrix for repair. A scab forms as this clot dries, but the critical early events are mast cell degranulation and clot formation. The other described events are typically associated with later phases: re‑epithelialization by basal cells happens during the proliferative phase, and scab shedding with scar tissue formation occurs during remodeling.