The thymus is needed for the proper development of which type of white blood cell?

• A. Monocytes
• B. T lymphocytes
• C. Neutrophils
• D. B lymphocytes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the role of the thymus in the immune system. The thymus is a specialized primary lymphoid organ of the immune system.
2. Recognize that the thymus is crucial for the development of T lymphocytes, also known as T cells. These cells are essential for adaptive immunity.
3. Learn that T lymphocytes mature in the thymus, where they undergo selection processes to ensure they can effectively recognize antigens and distinguish between self and non-self.
4. Differentiate between the types of white blood cells: Monocytes, Neutrophils, B lymphocytes, and T lymphocytes. Note that B lymphocytes mature in the bone marrow, not the thymus.
5. Conclude that the thymus is specifically needed for the proper development of T lymphocytes, as it provides the environment for their maturation and selection.