Which of the following is a hallmark of liquefactive necrosis?

Liquefactive necrosis is characterized by the transformation of tissue into a liquid viscous mass, often resulting in the formation of pus. This type of necrosis occurs when there is a high presence of inflammatory cells, particularly neutrophils, which release enzymes that degrade cellular structures. The liquefaction essentially occurs as a response to infection, especially with bacteria that cause significant tissue destruction, leading to the accumulation of dead cells, bacteria, and liquefied tissue debris, which is collectively recognized as pus.

In contrast, other forms of necrosis are associated with different characteristics. For instance, caseous necrosis, which resembles a “cheesy” consistency due to the accumulation of necrotic material, typically occurs with tuberculosis. The hardening of affected tissues is more indicative of coagulative necrosis, frequently seen in myocardial infarction. Increased blood flow is associated with inflammatory responses but does not specifically relate to the defining feature of liquefactive necrosis. Hence, the hallmark feature of liquefactive necrosis is indeed the formation of pus.