All of the following may result in an acquired immunodeficiency EXCEPT:

Question

A. Malnutrition
B. Treatment with corticosteroids
C. Disseminated cancer
D. Inherited defect in B cell maturation
E. Infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Answer 1

ANS: D.  An inherited defect in B cell maturation is, by definition, a primary immunodeficiency, not an acquired immunodeficiency. In particular, abnormalities in B lymphocyte development and function result in deficient antibody production and increased susceptibility to infection by extracellular microbes. In contrast, malnutrition, treatment with corticosteroids, disseminated cancer, and infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) would all result in acquired, or secondary, immunodeficiencies. Administration of corticosteroids to intentionally create an immunosuppressive state, such as in the treatment of inflammatory diseases or the prevention of tissue allograft rejection, is referred to as iatrogenic immunosuppression.