Lack of Leucocyte adhesion molecules (LAM) is associated with –
**Core Concept**
Leucocyte adhesion molecules (LAM) are a family of glycoproteins that facilitate the interaction between leucocytes and the endothelium, enabling their migration through the blood vessel wall to sites of inflammation. These molecules play a crucial role in the recruitment of leucocytes to sites of infection or injury.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, delayed closure of the umbilical cord, is a consequence of the lack of LAM. Normally, the umbilical cord contains a rich supply of leucocytes, which express LAM on their surface. These molecules enable the leucocytes to adhere to the endothelium and migrate into the placenta. In the absence of LAM, this process is impaired, leading to delayed closure of the umbilical cord. This is because the leucocytes are unable to migrate effectively, resulting in a persistent inflammatory response in the umbilical cord.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Normal chemotaxis is not directly related to LAM. Chemotaxis refers to the movement of leucocytes towards a chemical stimulus, which is mediated by chemokine receptors, not LAM.
* **Option C:** Complement opsonization is the process by which complement proteins mark pathogens for destruction by phagocytic cells. While LAM do play a role in the inflammatory response, they are not directly involved in complement opsonization.
* **Option D:** Neutropenia refers to a decrease in the number of neutrophils in the blood. While LAM do play a role in the recruitment of neutrophils to sites of inflammation, a lack of LAM would not directly result in neutropenia.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that LAM play a critical role in the inflammatory response, and their dysfunction can lead to impaired recruitment of leucocytes to sites of infection or injury. This can result in delayed wound healing, increased susceptibility to infection, and other complications.
**✓ Correct Answer:** A. Delayed closure of umblical cord