What type of granulomas are Aschoff bodies?

Aschoff bodies are a specific type of granulomatous nodules that are characteristic of rheumatic heart disease, particularly following rheumatic fever. These nodules are formed as a response to the inflammation caused by the immune system's reaction to streptococcal infection. The formation of granulomas, such as Aschoff bodies, involves a collection of macrophages that transform into multinucleated giant cells, alongside lymphocytes and multinucleated giant cells, which indicate a chronic inflammatory response.

The presence of Aschoff bodies is significant in the context of rheumatic fever as they reflect the tissue damage and immune-mediated injury to the heart. They typically develop in the myocardium and endocardium, leading to complications such as valvular damage over time. This is central to understanding the pathology of rheumatic fever and its long-term ramifications on cardiac health.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe Aschoff bodies. Lymphocytic infiltrates may be present in various types of inflammation but do not encapsulate the specific granulomatous formation seen in Aschoff bodies. Fibrinous exudates are associated more with acute inflammation rather than chronic granulomatous processes, and purulent abscesses represent localized