In an evaluation of an 8-year-old boy who has had recurrent infections since the first year of life, findings include enlargement of the liver and spleen, lymph node inflammation, and a superficial dermatitis resembling eczema. Microscopic examination of a series of peripheral blood smears taken during the course of a staphylococcal infection indicates that the bactericidal capacity of the boy’s neutrophils is impaired or absent. What is the most likely cause of this child’s illness?
In an evaluation of an 8-year-old boy who has had recurrent infections since the first year of life, findings include enlargement of the liver and spleen, lymph node inflammation, and a superficial dermatitis resembling eczema. Microscopic examination of a series of peripheral blood smears taken during the course of a staphylococcal infection indicates that the bactericidal capacity of the boy’s neutrophils is impaired or absent. What is the most likely cause of this child’s illness?
💡 Explanation
In an evaluation of an 8-year-old boy who has had recurrent infections since the first year of life, findings include enlargement of the liver and spleen, lymph node inflammation, and a superficial dermatitis resembling eczema. Microscopic examination of a series of peripheral blood smears taken during the course of a staphylococcal infection indicates that the bactericidal capacity of the boy's neutrophils is impaired or absent. What is the most likely cause of this child's illness?
✓ Correct Answer: A. Defect in the enzyme NADPH oxidase
📤 Share this MCQ
Share Card Preview
👆 1080x1080 square card — fills the full width in WhatsApp and Telegram