The cardinal function of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) in acute inflammation is:
- A Potent chemotaxis and activation of neutrophils and eosinophils ✓
- B Causing vascular dilation through prostacyclin-like mechanisms
- C Inhibiting phospholipase A2 to terminate the inflammatory cascade
- D Inducing fever by acting on hypothalamic prostaglandin receptors
Explanation
LTB4 is a potent chemoattractant and activator of neutrophils and eosinophils; it promotes their adhesion to endothelium and migration to sites of inflammation. It is generated from arachidonic acid by 5-lipoxygenase. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4, LTE4) cause bronchoconstriction and increased vascular permeability. Fever is mediated by PGE2 acting on hypothalamic EP3 receptors.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
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