The Underlying Problem in Gaucher Disease is ____

Question

The underlying problem in Gaucher disease is ____.
A) the spontaneous breakdown of red blood cells
B) the accumulation of fat in white blood cells
C) the breakdown of the myelin sheath around nerves
D) a hypertrophied spleen
E) the lack of critical liver enzymes

Accepted Answer

The underlying problem in Gaucher disease is the accumulation of a type of fat called glucocerebroside in white blood cells, which causes them to become enlarged and impairs their function. This accumulation can also occur in other cells and organs, leading to a variety of symptoms including an enlarged spleen and liver, bone pain, and neurologic complications.