Question

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome?

a) X-linked immunodeficiency affecting B cell development
b) Autosomal dominant immunodeficiency affecting T cell function
c) Autosomal recessive immunodeficiency affecting phagocyte function
d) X-linked immunodeficiency affecting platelet function

Answer 1

Wescott-Aldrich syndrome is an X-linked immunodeficiency primarily affecting platelet function, though it also impacts B cell and T cell function, leading to a combination of thrombocytopenia, eczema, and recurrent infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

Wescott-Aldrich syndrome is an X-linked immunodeficiency that affects platelet function and is also associated with defects in B cell and T cell function. This syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms: thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), eczema, and recurrent infections due to the inability to mount an effective adaptive immune response. Patients with Wescott-Aldrich syndrome experience both a deficiency in antibody production, mainly due to B cell dysfunction, and impaired cell-mediated immunity, which is attributed to abnormalities in T cells.\

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 'd) X-linked immunodeficiency affecting platelet function', as it encapsulates the primary characteristic of the syndrome which is a defect in platelet function, leading to thrombocytopenia. This condition is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern, which means it often presents in males who have inherited the defective gene from their mother.