**Core Concept**
The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in filtering the blood and storing lymphocytes. After splenectomy, patients are at an increased risk of infections, especially those caused by encapsulated bacteria. Therefore, vaccination is essential to prevent such infections.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) is recommended for patients after splenectomy. This vaccine protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common cause of encapsulated bacterial infections. The spleen is responsible for filtering out encapsulated bacteria, and its removal increases the risk of infections. PCV stimulates the production of antibodies that can help prevent pneumococcal infections.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Meningococcal vaccine is also important, but it is not the primary vaccine recommended after splenectomy.
**Option B:** Influenza vaccine is crucial for all patients, especially those with chronic medical conditions, but it is not the most critical vaccine after splenectomy.
**Option C:** Hepatitis B vaccine is essential for patients at risk of hepatitis B infection, but it is not directly related to the increased risk of infections after splenectomy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to remember that patients after splenectomy require lifelong vaccination against encapsulated bacteria, including pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b.
**Correct Answer: C. Influenza vaccine is also important but pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is the primary vaccine recommended after splenectomy.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.