Hematology and Immunology Flashcards

A patient with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) presents with the classic pentad. Which finding is part of it?

Answer: Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia

TTP features microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, neurologic changes, renal dysfunction, and fever.

What is the definitive treatment for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura?

Answer: Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis)

Plasma exchange removes autoantibodies and replaces ADAMTS13, and is the urgent treatment of choice for TTP.

Which laboratory value is used to monitor warfarin therapy?

Answer: INR/PT

The INR derived from prothrombin time monitors warfarin's effect on the extrinsic and common pathways.

A patient with severe anemia has a hemoglobin of 6 g/dL and symptomatic tachycardia. Which intervention is the priority?

Answer: Transfuse packed red blood cells

Symptomatic severe anemia with hemodynamic compromise requires packed RBC transfusion to restore oxygen-carrying capacity.

Which precaution is essential when caring for a thrombocytopenic patient with a platelet count of 15,000/mm3?

Answer: Avoid intramuscular injections and use a soft toothbrush

Bleeding precautions for severe thrombocytopenia include avoiding IM injections, NSAIDs/aspirin, and trauma-prone activities.

Graft-versus-host disease in transfusion recipients is prevented by using which type of blood product?

Answer: Irradiated blood products

Irradiation inactivates donor lymphocytes, preventing transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease in immunocompromised patients.

Which immunoglobulin is responsible for the primary (initial) immune response to a new antigen?

Answer: IgM

IgM is the first antibody produced during a primary immune response, while IgG predominates in the secondary response.