[Campbell Biology P.1020] Which of the following scenarios describes an acquired immunodefici... | Practice Question
Which of the following scenarios describes an acquired immunodeficiency?
A: A child is born with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) due to a genetic defect in lymphocyte production.
B: An individual experiences frequent infections after undergoing chemotherapy that suppresses the immune system.
C: A patient develops type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks pancreatic beta cells.
D: A newborn is unable to produce specific antibodies due to a developmental defect in the complement system.
Explanation
The text states that 'Later in life, exposure to chemicals or biological agents can cause an acquired immunodeficiency. Drugs used to fight autoimmune diseases or prevent transplant rejection suppress the immune system, leading to an immunodeficient state.' Chemotherapy is a chemical agent that suppresses the immune system.