Katrina has low levels of leukocytes in her body. Which health concern is she most likely experiencing?

• A. High risk of blood clotting
• B. Elevated oxygen transport
• C. Enhanced immune response
• D. Increased susceptibility to infections

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of leukocytes (white blood cells) in the body. Leukocytes are a key component of the immune system, responsible for fighting infections and protecting the body from foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
2. Step 2: Analyze the scenario where leukocyte levels are low. Low levels of leukocytes, a condition known as leukopenia, can impair the immune system's ability to respond effectively to infections.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the health concerns listed in the problem. High risk of blood clotting is unrelated to leukocyte levels, as clotting is primarily influenced by platelets and clotting factors. Elevated oxygen transport is associated with red blood cells, not leukocytes. Enhanced immune response would occur with increased leukocyte levels, not decreased levels.
4. Step 4: Focus on the correct answer: Increased susceptibility to infections. With fewer leukocytes, the body is less equipped to fight off infections, making this the most likely health concern Katrina is experiencing.
5. Step 5: Conclude that understanding the function of leukocytes and their role in immunity is essential to identifying the correct health concern in this scenario.