What characterizes the maturation (remodeling) phase?

What characterizes the maturation (remodeling) phase?

• A. Collagen remodeling continues, wound contracts, becomes stronger, and discoloration may happen
• B. Epithelialization begins
• C. Inflammation increases
• D. Melanogenesis increases

Answer: (A)

During the maturation (remodeling) phase, collagen is reorganized and the wound becomes stronger as the tissue contracts and the edges are pulled together. This phase may also show discoloration as pigment changes occur while the scar matures. Inflammation has largely subsided by this point, and epithelialization is already complete from the earlier proliferative phase. So the defining features—ongoing collagen remodeling, wound contraction, increased tensile strength, and possible discoloration—best describe this stage. The other options reflect processes from earlier healing phases (epithelialization, inflammation) or less characteristic pigment changes.

During the maturation (remodeling) phase, collagen is reorganized and the wound becomes stronger as the tissue contracts and the edges are pulled together. This phase may also show discoloration as pigment changes occur while the scar matures. Inflammation has largely subsided by this point, and epithelialization is already complete from the earlier proliferative phase. So the defining features—ongoing collagen remodeling, wound contraction, increased tensile strength, and possible discoloration—best describe this stage. The other options reflect processes from earlier healing phases (epithelialization, inflammation) or less characteristic pigment changes.