Question

Which of the following is incorrect for patients having SCID due to ADA deficiency?

• A. It can be effectively treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT)
• B. It is caused by a mutation in the gene that encodes a protein called adenosine deaminase (ADA)
• C. ADA enzyme breaks down molecules that are toxic to lymphocytes
• D. SCID children must receive the standard childhood vaccinations

Answer 1

The correct option is D SCID children must receive the standard childhood vaccinations

SCID (Severe Combined Immunodeficiency) due to ADA deficiency is caused by mutations in its gene. The function of the adenosine deaminase enzyme is to eliminate molecules which are toxic to lymphocytes by converting the toxic molecules to non-toxic ones.

A hematopoietic stem cell transplant, also known as bone marrow transplant, can be done from a suitable donor to the patient to treat SCID. The hematopoietic stem cells are pluripotent, meaning they can differentiate into any kind of blood cell.

SCID children should not receive standard childhood vaccinations as their immune system is weak and cannot fight even the weakened form of microbes in present in certain vaccines.

So, the correct answer is -SCID children must receive the standard childhood vaccinations