Immune complexes induce vasculitis by which of the following processes?
A) Inducing aggregation of platelets and activation factor XII
B) Increasing pressure within the lumen of capillaries
C) Forming thrombi in the small vessels, inducing necrosis
D) Releasing enzymes and free oxygen radicals from neutrophils that have migrated to the area to phagocytize the immune complexes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Immune complexes induce vasculitis primarily through the recruitment of neutrophils to the site where the immune complexes are deposited. These neutrophils, in an attempt to phagocytize the immune complexes, release enzymes and free oxygen radicals, which cause damage to the vessel wall, leading to vasculitis.

Immune Complexes Induce Vasculitis by Which of the Following Processes