USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

Which condition is likely to manifest with Sepsis, Postinfection, and Aplastic Anemia as causes?

1. Polycythemia Vera

2. Multiple Myeloma

3. SLE

4. Neutropenia

The correct answer is: Neutropenia

Neutropenia is characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell critical for fighting off infections. This condition can manifest in various clinical scenarios, particularly those involving infections and bone marrow dysfunction. In the context of sepsis, neutropenia significantly increases the risk of severe infections because there are insufficient neutrophils to mount an adequate immune response. Postinfection, patients with neutropenia are also susceptible to prolonged recovery periods and may develop secondary complications due to their compromised immune systems. Aplastic anemia, which is characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate blood cells, including neutrophils, directly leads to neutropenia and its associated risks. The other conditions do not align as closely with the features of sepsis, postinfection, and aplastic anemia. Polycythemia vera is primarily a myeloproliferative neoplasm leading to increased red blood cell production, which does not typically involve neutrophil depletion. Multiple myeloma, while it can lead to immune suppression, is primarily characterized by aberrant plasma cell proliferation rather than significant neutropenia. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that can affect blood cell