Pathophysiology Practice Exam Related

Review Pathophysiology Practice Exam related questions and content

A patient suffers from an autoimmune disorder. Which of the following represents a potential result of a viral infection in a patient with an autoimmune disorder?

  • A. Lymphocytes recognize the host's tissue as foreign.
  • B. Erythrocytes destroy the T cells of the host.
  • C. The involution of the thymus gland increases the risk of infection.
  • D. The differential decreases the sedimentation rate.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a patient with an autoimmune disorder, a viral infection can trigger an immune response where lymphocytes mistakenly recognize the host's tissue as foreign. This can lead to an exacerbation of the autoimmune condition. Choice B is incorrect because erythrocytes are not responsible for destroying T cells. Choice C is incorrect as thymus involution weakens the immune response, making the patient more susceptible to infections rather than increasing the infection risk. Choice D is unrelated to the potential effects of a viral infection in a patient with an autoimmune disorder.