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When a body organ is transplanted from one person to another, the immune system of the recipient is triggered - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 26 - 2001 - Paper 1
Question 26
When a body organ is transplanted from one person to another, the immune system of the recipient is triggered. (a) Patients who have an organ transplant are given d... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When a body organ is transplanted from one person to another, the immune system of the recipient is triggered - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 26 - 2001 - Paper 1
Step 1
Patients who have an organ transplant are given drugs to suppress their immune response. State the reason for this.
Answer
The primary reason that patients who receive an organ transplant are given drugs to suppress their immune response is to prevent the rejection of the transplanted organ. When an organ is transplanted, the recipient's immune system may recognize it as foreign, triggering an immune response that can lead to the destruction of the transplanted tissue. Immunosuppressive drugs help to lower the activity of the immune system, allowing the body to accept the new organ.
Step 2
Explain a possible consequence for the general health of organ transplant patients as a result of suppressing the immune system.
Answer
One possible consequence for the general health of organ transplant patients who are on immunosuppressive therapy is an increased susceptibility to infections. Suppression of the immune system compromises the body's ability to fight off pathogens, making patients more vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. This can lead to serious complications and may require additional medical treatment, further impacting their overall health and recovery.