Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about the complement system is true?
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19. Innate Immunity
Review of the Complement System
1:40 minutesProblem 3
Textbook Question
Hemolytic disease of the newborn is caused by antibodies against which major blood group antigen?
a. MHC protein
b. MN antigen
c. ABO antigen
d. Rhesus antigen
e. Type II protein
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN) occurs when maternal antibodies target fetal red blood cell antigens, leading to hemolysis in the fetus or newborn.
Recall that the most common and clinically significant cause of HDN involves antibodies against the Rhesus (Rh) blood group system, specifically the D antigen.
Recognize that while ABO incompatibility can cause mild HDN, the classic and severe form is due to Rh incompatibility.
Eliminate options that are unrelated to red blood cell antigens involved in HDN, such as MHC proteins (immune system molecules), MN antigens (less commonly involved), and type II proteins (not relevant here).
Conclude that the major blood group antigen responsible for classic hemolytic disease of the newborn is the rhesus antigen.
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Video duration:
1mKey Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN)
HDN is a condition where maternal antibodies attack fetal red blood cells, causing their destruction. This usually occurs when the mother is sensitized to fetal blood group antigens that she lacks, leading to immune-mediated hemolysis in the fetus or newborn.
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Rhesus (Rh) Blood Group System
The Rh blood group system includes several antigens, with the D antigen being the most significant. If an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus, she can develop antibodies against the Rh D antigen, which can cross the placenta and cause HDN.
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ABO Blood Group Antigens and Other Blood Group Systems
ABO antigens are common blood group markers but usually cause milder HDN. Other antigens like MN or MHC proteins are less commonly involved in HDN. Understanding the difference helps identify the primary cause of severe HDN cases.
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