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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an immediate function of histamine?
A
Causing local arterioles to constrict
B
Decreasing the permeability of local capillaries
C
Increasing blood pressure
D
releasing interferons
E
Causing local swelling of the tissue
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that histamine is a chemical released by mast cells in response to injury or allergic reactions.
Recognize that one of the primary functions of histamine is to increase the permeability of capillaries, allowing white blood cells and proteins to pass through to the affected tissue.
This increased permeability leads to the accumulation of fluid in the tissue, causing local swelling, also known as edema.
Note that histamine also causes vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels, not constriction, and this can lead to a decrease in blood pressure rather than an increase.
Conclude that the immediate function of histamine related to the options given is causing local swelling of the tissue due to increased capillary permeability.