Microbiology Basic and Clinical Principles Test Bank Related

Review Microbiology Basic and Clinical Principles Test Bank related questions and content

A 45 year old male died from disseminated tuberculosis. On autopsy the symptoms of tuberculosis were confirmed by both microscopical and histological analyses. What kind of hypersensitivity reaction underlies the process of granuloma development?

  • A. Delayed
  • B. Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity
  • C. Complement-dependent cytotoxicity
  • D. Anaphylactic
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Delayed hypersensitivity reaction. In granuloma development in tuberculosis, macrophages present antigen to T cells, leading to a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. This triggers the recruitment of more macrophages and formation of granulomas. Antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (B) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (C) involve antibodies and complement proteins in immediate hypersensitivity reactions, which are not the primary mechanisms in tuberculosis. Anaphylactic reaction (D) is an acute systemic allergic reaction mediated by IgE antibodies, not relevant to granuloma formation in tuberculosis.