You are a doctor examining a patient whose thymus is underdeveloped because of a medical condition called DiGeorge syndrome. What concerns do you have about this patient's immune system?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The thymus plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of T cells, which are important in cell-mediated immunity. Therefore, a patient with DiGeorge syndrome may have weakened cell-mediated immunity (choice B). Additionally, because T cell maturation is affected, there is an increased risk for autoimmune diseases (choice C). The level of antigens in the blood is not directly impacted by an underdeveloped thymus, so choice A is incorrect.

You Are a Doctor Examining a Patient Whose Thymus Is