Which cytokine is the principal stimulus for hepatocytes to synthesize C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A during the systemic acute phase response?
- A Interleukin-1
- B Interleukin-6 ✓
- C Tumor necrosis factor
- D Interleukin-8
Correct answer: B. Interleukin-6
Explanation
IL-6 acts directly on hepatocytes and is the dominant driver of acute phase protein production, including CRP, fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A. IL-1 and TNF contribute to fever and endothelial activation and indirectly augment IL-6 output, but they are not the primary hepatic stimulus, and IL-8 is a neutrophil chemoattractant with no hepatocellular action. Clinically, rising CRP reflects this IL-6 dependent synthesis.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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