Question

If a child were born without a thymus gland, would the T cells and functions of the immune system be deficient? Explain.

Short answer

A baby with complete DiGeorge syndrome lacks a thymus, which prevents their immune system from developing. T cells, which are white blood cells, are taught to attack infection in the thymus. Because children lacking a thymus do not create T cells, infections are more likely to arise.

Step-by-step solution

Immune system

Humans have an immune system that helps fight germs and diseases. Human bodies do not allow foreign particles (bacteria and pathogens) to enter with robust immune systems. At the same time, a weak immune system leads to infection.

Thymus glands

The thymus gland is a tiny organ located under the breastbone in the upper chest. Infection is prevented by lymphocytes, which are white blood cells. In summary, it creates immune cells. Thymosin, for example, is a hormone produced by the thymus that promotes T cell production.

WBC

White blood cells (WBCs) help the human body fight illness. Lymphocytes and neutrophils are two of the most common forms of white blood cells. Lymphocytes are white blood cells that identify foreign substances in the body that are produced by bacteria or viruses.

When germs travel from blood arteries to tissues, neutrophils destroy them. The thymus fulfills most of its function during puberty, shrinks in size, and becomes inactive.