Which of the following plasma components is most likely to rise in concentration during an acute infection?
A) fibrinogen
B) gamma globulins
C) platelets
D) albumin

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gamma globulins, also known as immunoglobulins, are antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an infection. Therefore, during an acute infection, the concentration of gamma globulins in the plasma is likely to increase. Fibrinogen is a clotting factor and its concentration may rise in response to injury or inflammation, but not necessarily in response to an infection. Platelets are also involved in clotting but are not a plasma component per se. Albumin is a protein that contributes to the osmotic pressure of the plasma and its concentration may change in certain medical conditions, but it is not directly related to an infection.

Which of the Following Plasma Components Is Most Likely to Rise