Basic Science and Immunology Flashcards
7 cards from real ABD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Basic Science and Immunology flashcards as text
Which cytokine is the principal driver of the Th2 immune axis implicated in atopic dermatitis?
Answer: IL-4
IL-4 is the signature Th2 cytokine central to atopic dermatitis pathogenesis and the target of dupilumab.
A loss-of-function mutation in the FLG gene predisposes to atopic dermatitis by impairing production of which protein?
Answer: Filaggrin
FLG encodes filaggrin, essential for skin barrier integrity and hydration.
Langerhans cells in the epidermis are best characterized by the presence of which cytoplasmic organelle?
Answer: Birbeck granule
Birbeck (tennis-racket) granules are the ultrastructural hallmark of Langerhans cells.
Which immunoglobulin class is deposited in the dermal papillae in dermatitis herpetiformis?
Answer: IgA
Granular IgA deposits in dermal papillary tips are diagnostic of dermatitis herpetiformis.
The type III hypersensitivity reaction responsible for cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis is mediated primarily by:
Answer: Immune complex deposition
Type III reactions involve immune complex deposition in vessel walls triggering complement activation.
Which structural protein is the target autoantigen in bullous pemphigoid?
Answer: BP180 (collagen XVII)
BP180 and BP230 are hemidesmosomal antigens targeted in bullous pemphigoid.
The Th17 pathway, central to psoriasis, is driven by which key cytokine that is the target of secukinumab?
Answer: IL-17A
IL-17A is the effector cytokine of Th17 cells and the target of secukinumab in psoriasis.