Case Study: Innate and Adaptive Immunity

Melissa is a 15-year-old high school student. Over the last week, she had been feeling tired and found it difficult to stay awake in class. By the time the weekend had arrived, she developed a sore throat that made it difficult to eat and even drink. Melissa was too tired to get out of bed, and she said her head ached. On Monday morning, her mother took her to her doctor. Upon completing the physical exam, he told Melissa that the lymph nodes were enlarged in her neck, and she had a fever. He ordered blood tests and told Melissa he thought she had mononucleosis, a viral infection requiring much bed rest.

1. Innate and adaptive immune defenses work collectively in destroying invasive microorganisms. What is the interaction between macrophages and T lymphocytes during the presentation of antigen?
2. Melissa’s illness is caused by a virus. Where are type I interferons produced, and why are they important in combating viral infections?
3. Humoral immunity involves the activation of B lymphocytes and production of antibodies. What are the general mechanisms of action that make antibodies a key component of an immune response?

In your discussion, be sure to integrate your knowledge of advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan with the clinical implications for the advanced practice nurse

Case Study Assignment Requirements:

• Make sure all of the topics in the case study have been addressed.
• Cite at least three references in your case study paper; this may include peer-reviewed journal articles, textbooks, or evidence-based practice websites to support the content.
• All reference sources must be within 5 years.
• Do not use sources such as Wikipedia or UpToDate as a reference.
• Assignments must have at least four full pages of analytic content, double-spaced (the cover and reference pages do not count in the page count, but must be included with the assignment), and follow APA 7th edition format.

Grade based on:

• Displays complete understanding of all critical concepts by answering all case study questions thoroughly, utilizing evidence-based practice.
• Supports opinions and ideas with evidence-based practice details and examples where appropriate.