Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is a primary characteristic of agranulocytosis?

1. Increased platelet count

2. Elevated neutrophil levels

3. Decreased neutrophil count

4. Increased red blood cell count

The correct answer is: Decreased neutrophil count

Agranulocytosis is primarily characterized by a significant reduction in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune response. Neutrophils are essential for combating infections, particularly bacterial infections. When their levels drop to very low counts, which defines agranulocytosis, the body becomes highly susceptible to infections due to the lack of these key players in the immune system. This condition can result from various causes, such as certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or bone marrow disorders, leading to an inability to produce adequate neutrophils. Understanding this primary characteristic of agranulocytosis is crucial for recognizing its impact on the immune system and the patient’s vulnerability to infections. Increased platelet count, elevated neutrophil levels, and increased red blood cell count do not align with the pathology of agranulocytosis and instead reflect different hematological conditions or responses. Thus, the critical defining feature of agranulocytosis is indeed the decreased neutrophil count.