Which of the following lab results strongly suggest an immunologic response in the client with possible rheumatic heart disease?
A) Elevated white blood cell count
B) Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
C) Group A (?-hemolytic) streptococcal antibodies
D) High C-reactive protein levels
Ans: C
Feedback:
The pathology of RF does not involve direct bacterial infection of the heart. Rather, the time frame for development of symptoms relative to the onset of pharyngitis and the presence of antibodies to the GAS organism strongly suggests an immunologic response. It is thought that antibodies directed against the M-protein of certain strains of streptococci cross-react with glycoprotein antigens in the heart, joints, and other tissues to produce an autoimmune response through a phenomenon called molecular mimicry. Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that can reveal inflammatory activity in your body. The level of CRP rises when there is inflammation throughout the body. Elevated WBC indicates an infection.
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