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Immunology and Serology Flashcards

6 cards from real ASCP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Immunology and Serology flashcards as text

  1. Which test is the gold standard for confirming Lyme disease seropositivity after a positive ELISA?

    Answer: Western blot (IgM and IgG bands to B. burgdorferi proteins)

    The two-tier testing algorithm for Lyme disease uses ELISA screening followed by Western blot confirmation for IgM and IgG band criteria.

  2. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant synthesized primarily by which organ?

    Answer: Liver

    CRP is synthesized by hepatocytes in response to IL-6 and IL-1 during acute inflammation, rising within 4–6 hours of insult.

  3. A patient with recurrent Neisseria infections (meningitis, gonorrhea) likely has a deficiency in:

    Answer: Terminal complement components (C5–C9, MAC)

    Terminal complement (C5–C9) forms the membrane attack complex essential for killing encapsulated gram-negative bacteria like Neisseria species.

  4. Serum protein electrophoresis showing an M-spike in the gamma region indicates:

    Answer: Monoclonal gammopathy (myeloma or MGUS)

    A monoclonal spike (M-protein) in the gamma zone indicates clonal plasma cell proliferation, seen in multiple myeloma or monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance.

  5. The latex agglutination test for cryptococcal antigen in CSF detects:

    Answer: Cryptococcal polysaccharide capsular antigen

    The cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) test detects capsular polysaccharide with >99% sensitivity and specificity in CSF and serum.

  6. Which immunological mechanism underlies type I hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis)?

    Answer: IgE bound to mast cells and basophils triggering mediator release

    Type I hypersensitivity involves antigen crosslinking IgE on sensitized mast cells and basophils, causing degranulation and release of histamine and other mediators.