Which pathophysiologic process will cause primary immunodeficiency?
Immune system is unable to distinguish self from non-self antigens.
Loss of one or more of the immune system components.
Hypersensitivity reaction to an antigen.
Excessive immune response to an antigen.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. This describes autoimmune disorders, where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Autoimmunity is not the cause of primary immunodeficiency, although some immune deficiencies can increase the risk of autoimmune disease.
B. Primary immunodeficiency results from genetic defects or congenital abnormalities that lead to loss or dysfunction of one or more components of the immune system, such as B cells, T cells, phagocytes, or complement proteins. Examples include severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), X-linked agammaglobulinemia, and DiGeorge syndrome. These deficiencies predispose individuals to recurrent infections, often starting in infancy or childhood.
C. Hypersensitivity reactions are exaggerated immune responses to antigens, classified as types I–IV, and are not the underlying cause of primary immunodeficiency.
D. An excessive immune response can result in allergies, hypersensitivity, or autoimmunity, but primary immunodeficiency is caused by loss of immune function, not overactivity.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This describes pathogenesis, which is the development and progression of disease at the cellular and tissue levels. Pathogenesis focuses on how a disease originates and evolves, not on prevention.
B. This describes the subclinical or latent stage of disease, where damage is occurring but the individual shows no observable symptoms. This is not related to prophylactic measures.
C. Prophylaxis refers to actions or interventions taken to prevent disease or reduce the risk of spreading infection. Examples include vaccinations, taking antibiotics before surgery, practicing hand hygiene, or using protective equipment. Prophylactic measures are an essential component of public health and preventive medicine.
D. This describes predisposing factors, which are risk factors that increase susceptibility to a disease but are not preventative measures.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The term "natural immunity" is sometimes used ambiguously. In immunology, it can refer to innate immunity, but in this context, the person is experiencing an immediate reaction to allergens (animal dander), which is not the development of long-term immunity.
B. Acquired (or adaptive) immunity develops after exposure to a specific pathogen and involves antigen-specific responses, such as the production of antibodies by B cells or activation of T cells. The runny nose and watery eyes are symptoms of an allergic reaction, not adaptive immune protection.
C. Passive immunity occurs when preformed antibodies are transferred from another individual or source, such as mother to fetus via placenta or via immunoglobulin therapy. The person in this scenario did not receive antibodies; they are reacting to environmental allergens.
D. Innate immunity is the body’s nonspecific first line of defense. It includes physical barriers (skin, mucosa), chemical defenses, and immune cells that respond immediately to foreign substances. In this case, the runny nose and watery eyes reflect an immediate hypersensitivity reaction, which is mediated by the innate and early immune response, particularly mast cells releasing histamine upon allergen exposure. This response is nonspecific and occurs upon first contact, fitting within the innate immune framework.
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