Question

Damage to thymus in a child may lead to

• A. Loss of cell-mediated immunity
• B. A reduction in the haemoglobin content in blood
• C. A reduction in the amount of plasma proteins
• D. Loss of antibody-mediated immunity

Answer 1

The correct option is A Loss of cell-mediated immunity

The thymus gland is located in the chest, behind the sternum. T-cells are produced in the bone marrow. These cells migrate to the thymus. The thymus gland is responsible for the differentiation and maturity of the T-cells. These mature T-cells are released in the bloodstream to fight against infections. The T-cells work in coordination with the B-cells to destroy the bacteria, viruses and other foreign antigens. If any damage is caused to the thymus during childhood may cause lack or less number of mature T-cells. This will cause the child to become more prone to infections. Thus, there will be lack or loss of cell-mediated immunity provided by the T-cells.

So, the correct answer is option A.