ATI Hematologic System Test Related

Review ATI Hematologic System Test related questions and content

A 2-month-old infant is brought to your clinic with an extensive scaly rash on the scalp, which has been biopsied and shown to be Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). You want to determine whether this patient has skin-only LCH or involvement of any of the 'high-risk' organs. The child has a normal CBC; normal liver enzymes and bilirubin; and a normal skeletal survey, skull films, and chest X ray. What other screening test will be important for finding involvement of a high-risk organ?

  • A. Reticulocyte count
  • B. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
  • C. Alkaline phosphatase
  • D. Serum albumin and total protein
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Serum albumin and total protein. In Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), involvement of high-risk organs like the liver, spleen, and bone marrow can occur. Serum albumin and total protein levels can indicate liver involvement as hypoalbuminemia and hypoproteinemia can be seen in liver dysfunction. The other choices, A (Reticulocyte count), B (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and C (Alkaline phosphatase) are not specific for evaluating high-risk organ involvement in LCH. Reticulocyte count is related to red blood cell production, ESR is a nonspecific marker of inflammation, and alkaline phosphatase is commonly elevated in various conditions, not specific for high-risk organ involvement in LCH.