An 8-week-old boy has been recently diagnosed with a severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). His parents have performed a significant amount of research on the Internet and have brought a large amount of material to discuss with their care provider. Which of the following statements best reflects an accurate understanding of their son's health situation?
A) "We read that gene therapy could cure our son; we'd like you to look into that option."
B) "Our son likely has a deficiency of B lymphocytes and can't produce antibodies."
C) "We feel guilty, because dietary and environmental factors have been shown to contribute to SCID"
D) "The antibodies that our son produces are mismatched to the infections that he was born with and encounters."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pathophysiology of SCID involves normal B cells but a lack of antibody production because of inadequate T-cell help. Gene therapy is not yet a realistic treatment option, and the disease has a genetic basis. Antibodies are not incorrect but rather inadequate in number.

An 8-Week-Old Boy Has Been Recently Diagnosed with a Severe