Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) produced during acute inflammation causes fever by acting on which brain structure?
- A Medullary thermoregulatory center
- B Anterior hypothalamic preoptic area ✓
- C Posterior hypothalamus
- D Cerebral cortex
Correct answer: B. Anterior hypothalamic preoptic area
Explanation
Endogenous pyrogens (IL-1, IL-6, TNF) stimulate PGE2 synthesis in vascular endothelium and glial cells of the anterior hypothalamic preoptic area. PGE2 acts on EP3 receptors there, raising the thermoregulatory set point, producing fever. NSAIDs reduce fever by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and thus PGE2 synthesis. The preoptic area is the primary thermosensory integration site.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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