A 6-Month-Old Boy Is Brought to the Emergency Department Due

A 6-month-old boy is brought to the emergency department due to poor feeding, irritability, and rash.  He was well-appearing until 2 days ago, when he developed little interest in drinking and a progressive rash.  Physical examination reveals diffuse erythema and desquamation that is most prominent at the neck, axillae, inguinal folds, and perioral region.  The perioral area also has crusting and the lips are dry and cracked, but the mucosal membranes are normal.  The epidermis easily comes off with gentle pressure at the erythematous areas.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

A) Autoantibody binding to epithelial cell surface
B) Cell-mediated hypersensitivity
C) Endotoxin-mediated inflammatory response
D) Exotoxin-mediated skin damage
E) Mast cell degranulation

Correct Answer:

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