Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are seen in –
**Core Concept**
Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are a type of multinucleated giant cell seen in certain viral infections, particularly measles and rubella. These cells are formed due to the fusion of infected cells and are a characteristic histopathological feature of these diseases.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are a result of the syncytium formation that occurs due to the measles virus. The measles virus encodes for a protein that causes the fusion of adjacent cells, leading to the formation of multinucleated giant cells. This phenomenon is a characteristic feature of measles infection and can be seen in the lymphoid tissues. The presence of Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells is a diagnostic clue for measles infection, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are not typically seen in viral infections other than measles and rubella. While other viral infections can cause multinucleated giant cells, the specific type and arrangement of these cells are characteristic of measles and rubella.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are not a feature of bacterial infections. While bacterial infections can cause various types of cellular reactions, the formation of multinucleated giant cells is not a characteristic feature.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are not a feature of fungal infections. While fungal infections can cause a range of histopathological changes, the formation of multinucleated giant cells is not a characteristic feature of these infections.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Warthin-Finkeldey giant cells are a classic example of a viral-induced syncytium formation. This phenomenon is a result of the measles virus's ability to cause cell fusion, leading to the formation of multinucleated giant cells. This characteristic histopathological feature is a diagnostic clue for measles infection.
**Correct Answer:** D.