Bordetella pertussis is characterized by rapid peripheral lymphocytosis and decreased cellularity of the lymph nodes. What can explain this phenomenon?
A) Increased CD4:CD8 ratio
B) Loss of homing of T cells to lymphoid tissue
C) Abnormal homing of lymphocytes to the bone marrow
D) Increase of L-selectin expression by T cells

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decreased cellularity of the lymph nodes in Bordetella pertussis may be due to the loss of homing of T cells to the lymphoid tissue. This may result from pertussis toxin-mediated inhibition of chemokine receptors and/or adhesion molecules necessary for T cell migration to the lymphoid organs. Rapid peripheral lymphocytosis may occur due to increased release of lymphocytes from the bone marrow into the circulation in response to the infection.

Bordetella Pertussis Is Characterized by Rapid Peripheral Lymphocytosis and Decreased