What is the pathophysiology of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?
The virus stimulates nerve cells, causing neurological dysfunction.
The virus destroys T-helper cells, leading to a lack of immunity.
The virus destroys red blood cells, leading to severe anemia.
The virus stimulates the bone marrow, causing blood cell production.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. While HIV can eventually lead to neurologic complications (HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders) due to indirect effects, its primary pathophysiology is not direct stimulation or infection of nerve cells.
B. HIV primarily targets CD4+ T-helper lymphocytes, which play a central role in coordinating the immune response. The virus binds to the CD4 receptor and a co-receptor (CCR5 or CXCR4), enters the cell, and replicates, eventually leading to cell death. The progressive loss of CD4+ cells results in immunodeficiency, leaving the person vulnerable to opportunistic infections, cancers, and systemic complications. This mechanism defines the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
C. HIV does not directly target red blood cells. Anemia in HIV patients may occur secondarily due to chronic disease, opportunistic infections, or medications, but it is not part of the primary pathophysiologic mechanism.
D. HIV does not stimulate bone marrow activity. In fact, HIV and its treatments can suppress bone marrow function, contributing to cytopenias.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The convalescence stage is the recovery phase of infection. During this stage, the host’s immune system has controlled the pathogen, symptoms decline, and the body begins to repair damaged tissues. Pathogen multiplication has largely ceased, making this stage incorrect.
B. The incubation stage is the period between the entry of the pathogen into the body and the appearance of the first symptoms. During this stage, the pathogen is actively multiplying within the host, but the host does not yet show signs of illness. The duration of the incubation period varies depending on the type of pathogen, the virulence of the organism, and the host’s immune system. This stage is critical because the person may be contagious even before symptoms appear.
C. The prodromal stage is when early, nonspecific symptoms begin to appear, such as malaise, fatigue, or mild fever. The pathogen continues to multiply, but the focus of this stage is the emergence of initial symptoms, not the start of replication.
D. The acute stage is characterized by full-blown, specific symptoms of the infection. Pathogen levels are typically at their peak, and the immune response is fully activated. This stage follows the incubation and prodromal periods.Top of FormBottom of Form
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A cytotoxic hypersensitivity reaction, also called type II hypersensitivity, occurs when the immune system produces antibodies that target antigens on the surface of the body’s own cells or foreign cells, leading to cell destruction. In the case of a mismatched blood transfusion, the recipient’s antibodies recognize the donor red blood cells as foreign and trigger their destruction through complement activation and phagocytosis. This can result in hemolysis, fever, chills, and in severe cases, kidney failure or shock.
B. This situation is associated with a type I hypersensitivity reaction (immediate, IgE-mediated), which can cause anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals. It is not cytotoxic because it involves allergic reaction mechanisms rather than direct destruction of cells.
C. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is primarily associated with type III hypersensitivity reactions, where immune complexes deposit in tissues, causing inflammation and tissue damage. It is not primarily cytotoxic (type II).
D. A tuberculin skin test elicits a type IV hypersensitivity reaction (delayed-type, cell-mediated). This reaction involves T lymphocytes responding to antigens, causing localized skin induration, rather than antibody-mediated cytotoxicity.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.