Hematopathology Practice Questions

Q: ABO isoantibodies are of which class?

IgM. ***IgM*** - Naturally occurring **ABO isoantibodies** are predominantly of the **IgM class**. - These **pentameric antibodies** are highly effective at causing **agglutination** of incompatible red blood cells, which is crucial in transfusion reactions [1]. *IgG* - While IgG antibodies can be formed against ABO antigens (e.g., in hemolytic disease of the newborn), the **naturally occurring isoantibodies** are primarily IgM. - IgG antibodies are **monomeric** and can cross the **placenta**, which is a key difference from the primary IgM ABO antibodies. *IgD* - **IgD** antibodies are primarily found on the surface of **B cells** and play a role in B cell activation. - They are **not a primary mediator** of ABO isoantibody response or red blood cell agglutination. *IgA* - **IgA** antibodies are predominantly found in **mucosal secretions** and play a role in mucosal immunity. - While some IgA may be present, it is **not the predominant class** for naturally occurring ABO isoantibodies involved in transfusion reactions. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. (Basic Pathology) introduces the student to key general principles of pathology, both as a medical science and as a clinical activity with a vital role in patient care. Part 2 (Disease Mechanisms) provides fundamental knowledge about the cellular and molecular processes involved in diseases, providing the rationale for their treatment. Part 3 (Systematic Pathology) deals in detail with specific diseases, with emphasis on the clinically important aspects., pp. 154-155.

Q: The most common subtype of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in India is:

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma. ***Diffuse large B cell lymphoma*** - It is the most common subtype of **Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma** observed in India, reflecting a higher prevalence in the population. - Characterized by **aggressive clinical behavior** [1] and typically presents as a rapidly enlarging mass, often involving lymph nodes or extranodal sites. *Burkitt's lymphoma* - This subtype is known for its **high proliferation rate** and is more common in specific demographics, such as children and immunocompromised individuals. - It typically presents with **jaw lesions** or abdominal masses, which is not typical in the broader Indian population. *Diffuse small cell lymphocytic lymphoma* - More accurately classified as **chronic lymphocytic leukemia** (CLL), it is not the most common subtype of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. - Characterized by a **milder clinical course** and presents with lymphocytosis in peripheral blood, lacking aggressive features. *Follicular lymphoma* - This is usually a **low-grade lymphoma** associated with **indolent behavior** and may not be the most commonly diagnosed subtype in India. - It typically involves multiple lymph nodes and is characterized by **nodular patterns on histology**, making it less prevalent than diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Follicular lymphoma is rare in Asian populations [2]. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Diseases Of The Urinary And Male Genital Tracts, pp. 563-564. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of White Blood Cells, Lymph Nodes, Spleen, and Thymus, pp. 602-604.

Q: Which of the following myeloid leukemias is not classified as a myeloproliferative neoplasm?

Acute myeloid leukemia. ***Acute myeloid leukemia*** - Acute myeloid leukemia is classified as a **malignant hematological disorder**, not a myeloproliferative disease, which includes chronic diseases with increased blood cell production. - It is characterized by the **rapid accumulation of immature blood cells**, leading to acute symptoms rather than a gradual proliferation. *Polycythemia vera* - Polycythemia vera is a myeloproliferative neoplasm resulting in an **increase in red blood cells**, causing symptoms like increased blood viscosity [1][2]. - It is associated with a mutation in the **JAK2 gene**, which leads to overproduction of erythrocytes [1][2]. *Chronic myeloid leukemia* - Chronic myeloid leukemia is a myeloproliferative disorder characterized by the proliferation of myeloid cells and often involves the **Philadelphia chromosome** [2][3]. - It shows a gradual increase in cell number and is typically diagnosed based on the presence of **elevated white blood cell counts**. *Essential thrombocytosis* - Essential thrombocytosis is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by an **elevated platelet count**, increasing the risk of thrombotic events [1][2]. - Like other myeloproliferative disorders, it is associated with mutations in **JAK2** or other myeloid-related genes [1][2]. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Blood And Bone Marrow Disease, pp. 614-615. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of White Blood Cells, Lymph Nodes, Spleen, and Thymus, p. 624. [3] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of White Blood Cells, Lymph Nodes, Spleen, and Thymus, pp. 624-625.

Q: Which of the following statements is false regarding hereditary spherocytosis?

Decreased MCHC. ***Decreased MCHC*** - Hereditary spherocytosis typically presents with an **increased MCHC** due to the spherocytes being more concentrated. - MCHC is a measure of the hemoglobin concentration in red blood cells, and in spherocytosis, this value is often elevated rather than decreased. *Defect in ankyrin* - This is a true statement; hereditary spherocytosis is associated with a defect in **ankyrin**, a protein that helps maintain the cell's membrane structure [2]. - Mutations in ankyrin lead to instability of the red blood cell membrane, resulting in spherocyte formation [2]. *Decreased MCV* - In hereditary spherocytosis, MCV is often **normal or slightly increased**, as it reflects the volume of red blood cells, which can be misinterpreted due to the presence of spherocytes. - Spherocytes are smaller cells, which can mistakenly suggest a falsely decreased MCV if not properly interpreted [1]. *Reticulocytosis* - This condition typically presents with **reticulocytosis** as a response to hemolysis, indicating the bone marrow is producing more red blood cells to compensate [1]. - The presence of reticulocytosis is a common finding in hereditary spherocytosis due to increased destruction of spherocytes. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Blood And Bone Marrow Disease, pp. 597-598. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Red Blood Cell and Bleeding Disorders, pp. 640-641.

Q: What is the typical bone marrow finding in myelofibrosis?

Dry tap (hypocellular). ***Dry tap (hypocellular)*** - In myelofibrosis, the bone marrow is often **hypocellular** due to fibrosis [1][2], leading to a **dry tap** during aspiration. - The presence of **reticulin** and collagen deposition replaces normal hematopoietic cells [2], resulting in ineffective hematopoiesis. *Thrombocytosis* - Myelofibrosis typically leads to **thrombocytopenia**, not thrombocytosis, due to ineffective megakaryopoiesis and splenic sequestration. - Though elevated platelets can occur, they are generally a **secondary response** to the disease and not a hallmark finding. *Megaloblastic cells* - Megaloblastic changes are associated with **vitamin B12** or **folate deficiencies**, which do not occur in myelofibrosis. - In myelofibrosis, the predominant issue is **marrow fibrosis** [1][2], which does not lead to megaloblastosis. *Microcytic cells* - Microcytic cells are commonly linked to **iron deficiency anemia**, not myelofibrosis. - Myelofibrosis typically results in **variable red cell morphology** [1], but microcytic anemia is not a primary characteristic. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Diseases of White Blood Cells, Lymph Nodes, Spleen, and Thymus, pp. 628-629. [2] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Blood And Bone Marrow Disease, pp. 615-616.

Q: Which is not a feature of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria?

Increased LAP score. ***Increased LAP score*** - In paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, the **LAP score** is typically **low** due to ineffective hematopoiesis and not elevated. - The presence of a low LAP score is inconsistent with the features of this condition, making it the correct choice. *Thrombosis* - Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is **associated with a high risk of thrombosis**, particularly in the **venous system** [2]. - This is due to **increased platelet activation** and excessive thrombin generation resulting from hemolysis. *Hemolysis* - **Hemolysis** is a hallmark feature of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, where there is **destruction of red blood cells** [2,3]. - Patients often present with signs of hemolytic anemia including **elevated bilirubin** and **low haptoglobin** levels. *Thrombocytopenia* - **Thrombocytopenia** is a common finding in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria due to **expanded consumption** of platelets during episodes of hemolysis. - This can lead to an **increased risk of bleeding** in affected patients. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Blood And Bone Marrow Disease, pp. 601-602. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Red Blood Cell and Bleeding Disorders, pp. 650-651.

Q: In which condition are Pseudo-Pelger-Huët cells typically seen?

Myelodysplastic syndrome. ***Mylodysplastic syndrome*** - Pseudo-Pelger-Huet cells are characteristic and often observed in myelodysplastic syndromes, indicating an ineffective hematopoiesis [1]. - These cells appear as **hyposegmented neutrophils** and are associated with dysplastic changes in the bone marrow [1]. *Hairy cell leukemia* - Typically presents with **hairy cells** in peripheral blood and often involves splenomegaly; pseudo-Pelger-Huet cells are not usual in this condition. - Associated with **PANCYTOPENIA** and reticulin fibrosis, differing from myelodysplastic syndrome. *Hodgkin's lymphoma* - Characterized by the presence of **Reed-Sternberg cells** and typically involves lymphadenopathy. - Peripheral blood findings generally do not include pseudo-Pelger-Huet cells; the focus is on lymphatic tissue. *Multiple myeloma* - Commonly presents with **plasma cells** and related symptoms like bone pain and renal failure, not associated with pseudo-Pelger-Huet cells. - It primarily causes an increase in monoclonal proteins rather than dysplastic changes seen in myelodysplastic syndrome. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Blood And Bone Marrow Disease, pp. 613-614.

Q: Anemia with reticulocytosis is seen in -

Hemolysis. ***Hemolysis*** - Reticulocytosis indicates a compensatory response to anemia, often occurring in hemolytic processes where the **bone marrow increases red blood cell production** in response to red blood cell destruction. - Conditions like **sickle cell disease** or **autoimmune hemolytic anemia** lead to hemolysis, further confirming increased reticulocyte count. *Iron deficiency anemia* - Typically presents with a **low reticulocyte count** as the bone marrow does not have sufficient iron to produce new red blood cells. - This condition is characterized by **microcytic, hypochromic** red blood cells due to inadequate iron stores. *Vitamin B12 deficiency* - Often results in a **macrocytic anemia** with a variable reticulocyte count; however, reticulocytosis is generally not seen initially. - This deficiency affects DNA synthesis, leading to ineffective erythropoiesis and the presence of **megaloblastic changes**. *Aplastic anemia* - Characterized by a **decrease in all types of blood cells** (pancytopenia) and typically has a **low reticulocyte count** due to bone marrow failure. - There is insufficient production of red blood cells, hence **reticulocytosis is not observed**.

Question 1

ABO isoantibodies are of which class?

Accepted Answer

IgM

Answer

IgG

Answer

IgD

Answer

IgA

Question 2

The most common subtype of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in India is:

Accepted Answer

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma

Answer

Diffuse small cell lymphocytic lymphoma

Answer

Follicular lymphoma

Answer

Burkitt's lymphoma

Question 3

What is the Thomsen Friedenreich phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Exposure of cryptic T-antigen on red blood cells

Answer

Agglutination of red blood cells by all blood group sera

Answer

Agglutination of red blood cells by anti-T antibodies

Answer

Association with certain malignancies

Question 4

Which of the following myeloid leukemias is not classified as a myeloproliferative neoplasm?

Accepted Answer

Acute myeloid leukemia

Answer

Chronic myeloid leukemia

Answer

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Answer

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Question 5

Which of the following statements is false regarding hereditary spherocytosis?

Accepted Answer

Decreased MCHC

Answer

Defect in ankyrin

Answer

Reticulocytosis

Answer

Normal to increased MCV

Question 6

What is the typical bone marrow finding in myelofibrosis?

Accepted Answer

Dry tap (hypocellular)

Answer

Megaloblastic cells

Answer

Microcytic cells

Answer

Thrombocytosis

Question 7

Which is not a feature of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria?

Accepted Answer

Increased LAP score

Answer

Thrombocytopenia

Answer

Hemolysis

Answer

Thrombosis

Question 8

Persons with heterozygous sickle cell trait are protected from infection by:

Accepted Answer

P. falciparum

Answer

Pneumococcus

Answer

P. vivax

Answer

Salmonella

Question 9

In which condition are Pseudo-Pelger-Huët cells typically seen?

Accepted Answer

Myelodysplastic syndrome

Answer

Hairy cell leukemia

Answer

Multiple myeloma

Answer

Hodgkin's lymphoma

Question 10

Anemia with reticulocytosis is seen in -

Accepted Answer

Hemolysis

Answer

Iron deficiency anemia

Answer

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Answer

Aplastic anemia

Hematopathology — MCQs

Hematopathology — MCQs

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