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Question #45461
The Question
A patient suffering from a genetic deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin develops chronic emphysema. Over time, blood analysis reveals an abnormally high red blood cell count (secondary polycythemia) as a result of sustained physiological compensation. Which of the following best describes the ultimate systemic consequence of this specific compensatory mechanism?
Options
- A.
It completely restores systemic pO2 levels by maximizing the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin.
- B.
It creates a maladaptive feedback loop where increased blood viscosity further compromises capillary perfusion and gas exchange.
- C.
It reduces pulmonary vascular resistance, thereby preventing right ventricular hypertrophy (cor pulmonale).
- D.
It triggers a negative feedback loop that directly stimulates the regeneration of damaged alveolar septa.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Erythropoietin|Alpha-1_Antitrypsin|Decomposition_Rate_Modifiers
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often assume physiological compensation (like EPO release during hypoxia) is universally beneficial.
The trap lies in failing to integrate hemodynamics (blood viscosity) with respiratory pathology.
While the body attempts to carry more oxygen, the physical thickening of the blood combined with a destroyed respiratory surface creates a deleterious, maladaptive feedback loop.
This requires synthesizing concepts from Biotechnology, Respiratory Physiology, and Chemical Coordination.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Chemical Coordination and Integration - Class 11 |
| Concept | Erythropoietin Function |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |