Explain why splenectomy is sometimes carried out in patients with persistent type II autoimmune diseases that affect leukocytes.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is When autoantibodies directed toward leukocyte surface antigens bind to the cell surface,complement fixation and deposition of C3b occurs.The membrane-attack complex usually does not form on leukocytes because of complement regulatory proteins.Their elimination from the circulation,however,occurs by a different mechanism involving splenic macrophages that bear FcR and CR1,receptors for antibodies and C3b,respectively.The macrophages carry out phagocyte-mediated clearance of these leukocytes,leading to a deficiency of these cells in the circulation.Removal of the spleen spares the elimination of these leukocytes.The presence of antibody and C3b on their cell surface does not affect their ability to functional normally.

Explain Why Splenectomy Is Sometimes Carried Out in Patients with Persistent