Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of the stratum corneum in innate immunity?

Accepted Answer

It is a layer of dead epidermal cells rich in keratin, forming a barrier that is difficult for toxins and microbes to cross.

Question 2

A patient presents with a fever after a bacterial infection. Which process is most responsible for the fever, and what is its physiological benefit?

Accepted Answer

Pyrogens raise the hypothalamic set point, which increases metabolism and reduces bacterial growth by causing the liver to sequester iron.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a function of the complement system?

Accepted Answer

Direct production of antibodies

Question 4

A child receives the MMR vaccine and is later exposed to measles but does not get sick. Which immune mechanism best explains this protection?

Accepted Answer

Active immunity due to memory B and T cells generated by vaccination

Question 5

Which cell type is first to arrive at the site of infection and specializes in neutralizing bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Neutrophils

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the difference between innate and adaptive immune defenses?

Accepted Answer

Innate defenses are nonspecific and include physical barriers, while adaptive defenses target specific pathogens and have memory.

Question 7

Which of the following immune cells destroys infected or defective self cells by recognizing signal proteins on their membranes?

Accepted Answer

Natural Killer (NK) cells

Question 8

A patient develops swelling, redness, heat, and pain after a cut. Which chemical is primarily responsible for initiating this inflammatory response?

Accepted Answer

Histamine

Question 9

Which of the following is a function of antibodies produced by plasma cells?

Accepted Answer

Neutralizing toxins and viruses by binding to them

Question 10

Which process allows the adaptive immune system to respond more rapidly upon second exposure to the same pathogen?

Accepted Answer

Presence of memory B and T cells

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why a fever above $$40^\	ext{\circ}C is $$dangerous?

Accepted Answer

It can denature proteins and enzymes, disrupting normal cellular functions.

Question 12

Which of the following is a real-world example of an acquired autoimmune disorder caused by molecular mimicry?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatic fever following a streptococcal infection

Question 13

Which of the following is true regarding the role of MHC markers in the immune response?

Accepted Answer

They label the body's cells as 'self' for recognition by T lymphocytes.

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of defensins in the skin?

Accepted Answer

They are antimicrobial proteins that help prevent infection.

Question 15

Which immune cell is responsible for presenting antigens to helper T cells to initiate the adaptive immune response?

Accepted Answer

Macrophage

Question 16

Which of the following best describes passive immunity?

Accepted Answer

Immunity acquired by receiving antibodies from another source, without memory cell formation.

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in the adaptive immune response?

Accepted Answer

Detection → Alert → Alarm → Building specific defenses → Withdrawal of forces

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of platelets in the immune response?

Accepted Answer

They are involved in the blood clotting response, preventing blood loss and infection spread.

Question 19

Which of the following is a mechanism by which antibodies neutralize pathogens?

Accepted Answer

Binding to toxins and viruses, preventing their function

Question 20

Which of the following best explains the role of the gut microbiome in innate immunity?

Accepted Answer

It consists of beneficial bacteria that exclude pathogenic bacteria from the large intestine.

Immunology and Disease: Innate and Adaptive Body Defenses

Study Guide - Practice Questions