During the proliferation phase (Day 2 to 3 weeks), which processes occur?

During the proliferation phase (Day 2 to 3 weeks), which processes occur?

• A. Inflammation dominates
• B. Wound contraction is the primary event
• C. Epithelialization begins and collagen synthesis and ECM reorganization happen
• D. Melanin production increases

Answer: (C)

In the proliferation phase, new tissue forms to fill and cover the wound. Epithelial cells begin to migrate across the wound bed and re‑epithelialize the surface, creating a protective barrier. At the same time, fibroblasts produce collagen and other extracellular matrix components, reorganizing the ECM to give the tissue strength and integrity. Blood vessels also grow to supply the healing tissue. Wound contraction can occur as myofibroblasts pull the edges inward, but the defining activities are epithelialization along with collagen synthesis and ECM remodeling. That’s why the option describing epithelialization begins and collagen synthesis and ECM reorganization happen best matches what occurs during this phase. Inflammation is more characteristic of the earlier phase, and melanin production is not a wound-healing process.

In the proliferation phase, new tissue forms to fill and cover the wound. Epithelial cells begin to migrate across the wound bed and re‑epithelialize the surface, creating a protective barrier. At the same time, fibroblasts produce collagen and other extracellular matrix components, reorganizing the ECM to give the tissue strength and integrity. Blood vessels also grow to supply the healing tissue. Wound contraction can occur as myofibroblasts pull the edges inward, but the defining activities are epithelialization along with collagen synthesis and ECM remodeling. That’s why the option describing epithelialization begins and collagen synthesis and ECM reorganization happen best matches what occurs during this phase. Inflammation is more characteristic of the earlier phase, and melanin production is not a wound-healing process.