Rituximab produces B-cell depletion in non-Hodgkin lymphoma by targeting which cell surface antigen?
- A CD19
- B CD20 ✓
- C CD22
- D CD34
Correct answer: B. CD20
Explanation
Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD20, a transmembrane calcium channel protein expressed on pre-B cells and mature B cells but absent from stem cells and plasma cells, allowing regeneration of the B-cell pool after therapy. It kills cells through complement-dependent cytotoxicity, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and direct apoptosis signalling. CD19 and CD22 are other B-cell markers targeted by different agents such as blinatumomab and inotuzumab, while CD34 marks haematopoietic stem cells.
Reference: Williams Hematology, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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