Question

A 2-year-old with recurrent infections involving multiple organ systems is diagnosed with chronic granulomatous disease of childhood. Which of the following most closely characterizes the abnormality in this individual's phagocytic cells?

Option 1: Impaired phagolysosome formation.
Option 2: Defective opsonization.
Option 3: Decreased antibody production.
Option 4: Abnormal T-cell function.

Answer 1

In chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), the phagocytic cell abnormality is characterized by impaired phagolysosome formation due to a defect in the NADPH oxidase system.

Step-by-step explanation:

The 2-year-old diagnosed with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) has an abnormality characterized by impaired phagolysosome formation. Specifically, the defect lies in the phagocytic cells' NADPH oxidase system.

This defect prevents the production of superoxide radicals in phagolysosomes, which are crucial for killing ingested bacteria. Without these radicals, the antibacterial activity of phagocytes such as neutrophils and macrophages is compromised, resulting in recurrent and persistent infections and the formation of granulomas. Therefore, among the options presented, Option 1: Impaired phagolysosome formation is the most accurate characterization of the abnormality in this individual's phagocytic cells.