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Ch. 12 - Adaptive Immunity
Norman-McKay- Microbiology: Basic and Clinical Principles 2nd Edition
Norman-McKay2nd EditionMicrobiology: Basic and Clinical PrinciplesISBN: 9780137661619Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksNorman-McKay 2nd EditionCh. 12 - Adaptive ImmunityProblem 2
Chapter 12, Problem 2

In which of the following scenarios would administering immunoglobulins be useful? Select all that apply.
a. To neutralize a toxin
b. To aid a patient who is immune compromised
c. After venom exposure
d. To block IgM from crossing the placenta
e. To protect a premature infant from respiratory syncytial virus

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand what immunoglobulins are. Immunoglobulins (antibodies) are proteins produced by the immune system that recognize and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Administering immunoglobulins provides passive immunity by supplying ready-made antibodies.
Step 2: Analyze option (a) 'To neutralize a toxin'. Immunoglobulins can be used to neutralize toxins, such as in cases of tetanus or botulism, by binding to the toxin and preventing it from causing harm. This is a classic use of immunoglobulin therapy.
Step 3: Analyze option (b) 'To aid a patient who is immune compromised'. Immunoglobulins can provide passive immunity to immune-compromised patients who cannot produce sufficient antibodies themselves, helping to protect them from infections.
Step 4: Analyze option (c) 'After venom exposure'. Immunoglobulins, specifically antivenoms, are used to neutralize venom from bites or stings by binding to venom components, preventing their toxic effects.
Step 5: Analyze options (d) and (e). Option (d) 'To block IgM from crossing the placenta' is not applicable because IgM does not cross the placenta; only IgG does. Option (e) 'To protect a premature infant from respiratory syncytial virus' is a valid use of immunoglobulins, as passive immunization can protect vulnerable infants from RSV infection.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Passive Immunization with Immunoglobulins

Passive immunization involves administering pre-formed antibodies (immunoglobulins) to provide immediate but temporary protection against specific pathogens or toxins. It is useful in situations where rapid immunity is needed, such as toxin neutralization or post-exposure prophylaxis, without waiting for the body to produce its own antibodies.
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Indications for Immunoglobulin Therapy

Immunoglobulin therapy is indicated for neutralizing toxins (e.g., tetanus), treating immune-compromised patients who cannot mount an adequate immune response, and providing protection after exposure to certain venoms or viruses. It is not used to block antibody transfer across the placenta or as a vaccine substitute.
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Limitations of Immunoglobulin Use

Immunoglobulins do not prevent the transfer of maternal IgM antibodies across the placenta, as IgM does not cross the placenta naturally. Also, immunoglobulin administration provides temporary immunity and is not a replacement for active immunization or long-term protection, especially in premature infants who may require additional interventions.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Why are packed red blood cells not tissue typed? Select all that apply.

a. Red blood cells lack MHC II

b. Red blood cells lack MHC I

c. Red blood cells can’t stimulate an immune response

d. Red blood cells aren’t transferred to others

e. Red blood cells don’t make antibodies and therefore do not need to be typed

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Textbook Question

Indicate the true statements and correct the false statements so they are true.

a. B cells are activated by antigen-presenting cells

b. T cytotoxic cells are activated by antigens bound to MHC I

c. Upon activation, T helper cells stimulate T cytotoxic cells and B cells

d. IgG is the first antibody made during a primary response

e. T-dependent antigens rely on TH cells to activate B cells

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Textbook Question

In which of the following scenarios would administering immunoglobulins be useful? Select all that apply. (NCLEX/HESI/TEAS)

a. To neutralize a toxin

b. To aid a patient who is immune compromised

c. After venom exposure

d. To block IgM from crossing the placenta

e. To protect a premature infant from respiratory syncytial virus

Textbook Question

Complete the table to indicate which MHCs are present for each cell.

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