Cellular swelling and Calcification

Cellular Swelling

The plasma membrane forms a barrier against excessive amounts of Na+ within the extracellular fluid from entering the cell. However, the plasma membrane is slightly “leaky” to Na+, allowing minimal amounts of Na+ to gradually move into the cell. To compensate this, there is a perpetually active Na+/K+ATPase pump, which move Na+ out of the cell constantly, in exchange for K+ into the cell. The normal functioning of these pumps is hampered due to depletion of ATP which leads to accumulation of Na+ intracellularly creating osmotic pressure which causes cellular swelling. 

Fatty Change (Steatosis): This steatosis is caused in hypoxic, toxic and metabolic injuries and is related to a dysfunction in the cell’s regulation of synthesis and elimination of triglycerides. Excess lipids accumulate within the cells, usually parenchymal cells that form numerous vacuoles that displace the cytoplasm. If these vesicles are large enough to displace and distort the nucleus, it is referred to as macrovesicular steatosis. 

Calcification- It occurs when calcium builds up in body tissue, blood vessels or organs. This buildup can harden and disrupt body’s normal processes. Types of Calcification: Calcifications can form in many places throughout body, including:

-Small and large arteries

-Heart valves

 -Brain, where it is known as cranial calcification

-Joints and tendons, such as knee joints and rotator cuff tendons 

– Soft tissues like breasts, muscles, and fat 

-Kidney, bladder and gallbladder

Causes of Calcification: Many factors have been found to play a role in calcification. These include: infections, calcium metabolism disorders that cause hyperkalaemia, genetic or autoimmune disorders affecting skeletal system and connective tissues, persistent inflammation. 

Written & Verified by Diksha Bhatla

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Diksha Bhatla is a Pharmacy graduate and a passionate academic content creator currently pursuing higher studies in Pharmacy. She contributes to SoloTutes by creating educational content, practice tests, and study resources for students preparing for NEET and Pharmacy examinations. With a strong understanding of **Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy**, Diksha focuses on developing clear, exam-oriented content that helps students strengthen their concepts and improve their preparation. At SoloTutes, she writes educational articles and develops practice questions and tests designed to support students in their learning and competitive exam preparation.

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