Which of the following choices describes an immunodeficiency disorder?
One of several types of bacteria that are now resistant to most antibiotics.
An inherited condition in which abnormalities in the immune system cause an increased susceptibility to infection and failure to thrive as a result of infections.
A cancer that causes patches of abnormal tissue to grow under the skin; in the mouth, nose, and throat; or in other organs.
Occurs when the immune response is compromised.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: An inherited condition in which abnormalities in the immune system cause an increased susceptibility to infection and failure to thrive as a result of infections.
Explanation:
An immunodeficiency disorder refers to a condition in which the immune system is either absent or does not function properly, leading to an increased susceptibility to infections. This can occur due to genetic mutations, environmental factors, or other diseases. In immunodeficiency disorders, the body’s ability to defend itself against pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi is compromised.
There are two types of immunodeficiency disorders:
- Primary (or congenital): These are inherited disorders caused by genetic mutations that affect the immune system. For example, Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) is a well-known primary immunodeficiency disorder where individuals are born with a severely weakened immune system. They are more vulnerable to infections and fail to thrive due to repeated illnesses.
- Secondary (or acquired): These are disorders that occur due to external factors or other diseases that compromise the immune system. For example, HIV/AIDS weakens the immune system, making it more difficult to fight infections.
The other choices listed are not immunodeficiency disorders:
- Antibiotic resistance refers to bacteria evolving mechanisms to resist the effects of antibiotics, but it is not related to a defect or malfunction of the immune system.
- Cancer causing abnormal tissue growth is typically related to conditions like sarcomas or other cancers, which involve uncontrolled cell growth, not an issue with the immune system’s function.
- Compromised immune response can occur in various conditions (like immunodeficiencies or autoimmune diseases), but the description “an inherited condition” specifically defines an immunodeficiency disorder.
In summary, immunodeficiency disorders, especially inherited ones, cause the immune system to be unable to effectively fight infections, leading to recurring infections and difficulty thriving.