A 21-Year-Old Man Is Brought to the Emergency Department in a Stuporous

A 21-year-old man is brought to the emergency department in a stuporous condition.  He returned from a family visit to Mexico 2 weeks ago.  One week ago, the patient began developing high-grade fever, headaches, severe myalgias, and joint pains.  He had similar symptoms following a trip to Mexico 5 years ago, but at that time the symptoms did not progress and instead resolved spontaneously within a few days.  Temperature is 38.3 C (101 F) , blood pressure is 80/50 mm Hg, and pulse is 128/min.  Examination shows a diffuse maculopapular rash, multiple purpuric lesions, and hepatomegaly.  Laboratory studies show marked thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and elevated liver aminotransferases.  Which of the following is the most likely mechanism for this patient's current severe illness?

A) Antigenic drift in the virus
B) Blunted T-lymphocyte response
C) Infection with a different viral serotype
D) Larger viral inoculation dose
E) Viral superinfection

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free