What condition does suppuration indicate?

Suppuration refers to the process of pus formation, which typically occurs in response to an infection. When the body encounters pathogens such as bacteria, the immune system responds by sending white blood cells to the affected area. These cells work to fight off the infection, and as they destroy pathogens, the accumulation of dead cells, bacteria, and immune cells leads to the formation of pus. Therefore, suppuration is a clear indicator of an infection, signaling that the body is actively fighting off pathogens and that there is an inflammatory response taking place.

The other options do not relate directly to the formation of pus: allergies are immune responses that do not involve pus, cancer involves abnormal cell growth rather than pus formation, and dehydration is a lack of adequate fluids and does not lead to suppuration. Thus, the correct association of suppuration with infection highlights its significance in medical contexts.