Antibody used in treatment of RSV infection
**Core Concept**
Palivizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the fusion protein of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), preventing the fusion of viral and host cell membranes, thereby inhibiting viral replication.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Palivizumab works by binding to the RSV fusion protein, which is essential for viral entry into host cells. This binding prevents the fusion protein from mediating the fusion of viral and host cell membranes, thereby inhibiting viral replication and the subsequent release of new viral particles. Palivizumab is administered intravenously or intramuscularly and has been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence and severity of RSV disease in high-risk populations, such as premature infants and those with underlying heart or lung disease.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention a specific antibody used in the treatment of RSV infection. While there are several treatments for RSV infection, Palivizumab is the only specific antibody used for this purpose.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of antiviral medication, not an antibody. Ribavirin is an antiviral medication that is used to treat RSV infection, but it is not an antibody.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of vaccine, not an antibody. RSV vaccines are currently being developed, but none have been approved for use in humans yet.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of antiviral medication, not an antibody. Oseltamivir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat influenza, not RSV infection.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody that is specifically designed to target the RSV fusion protein, making it a highly effective treatment for RSV infection in high-risk populations.
**Correct Answer: C. Palivizumab**