The rise in body core temperature during systemic inflammation is produced by which mediator acting directly on the preoptic area of the hypothalamus?
- A Bradykinin
- B Prostaglandin E2 ✓
- C Histamine
- D Leukotriene D4
Correct answer: B. Prostaglandin E2
Explanation
IL-1 and TNF induce cyclooxygenase-derived prostaglandin E2 in the vascular cells of the hypothalamic preoptic region. PGE2 raises the thermoregulatory set point, producing fever. This explains why antipyretics such as paracetamol and NSAIDs work: they inhibit COX and block PGE2 synthesis. Bradykinin mediates pain and vasodilation, histamine acts on H1 receptors in vessels, and leukotriene D4 causes bronchoconstriction.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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