Question

Which one of the following disease histories can be drawn by using the pedigree chart?
A) Fibrosis
B) Multiple Sclerosis
C) Anaphylaxis
D) Taeniasis

Answer 1

Pedigree chart is a diagram that shows the occurrence and appearance of the phenotypes of a particular gene from one generation to next generation. Scientists use pedigree analysis in order to study the inheritance of genes in humans. The genetically heritable disease’s history can be drawn by using the pedigree chart.

Complete answer:

Fibrosis:-Cystic fibrosis is a genetic heritable disorder which passes from generation to the generation.This disease is caused by the defect in the gene CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane receptor).Cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices.In the people affected with cystic fibrosis the secretions become thick and sticky.These thick and sticky secretions plug up the tubes, ducts and pancreas.This disorder causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body.
Multiple Sclerosis:-Multiple Sclerosis is a disease related to the brain and spinal cord or central nervous system.In multiple sclerosis the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers the nerve fibres and causes communication problems between the brain and rest of the body.
Anaphylaxis:-Anaphylaxis is the serious and life threatening allergic reaction.It can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to allergen ( allergy causing substance).Allergens include peanuts, bee stings, pollen grains, dust, etc. Anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release chemicals that can cause the blood pressure drops suddenly.
Taeniasis:-Taeniasis is a parasitic infection which is caused by the species of tapeworms.This disease is caused only in humans because humans are the only hosts for the taenia.Humans passes tapeworms in faeces and contaminate the soil areas where sanitation is poor.
Therefore, as fibrosis is the only disease which is inheritable so the history of this disease can be drawn with the help of a pedigree chart.

Hence, option A is the correct answer.

Note: People with cystic fibrosis have a higher than a normal level of salt in their sweat. Other symptoms in the people affected with cystic fibrosis include-
i) Wheezing
ii) A persistent cough that produces thick mucus
iii) Exercise tolerance
iv) Repeated lung infections
v) Poor weight gain and growth, etc.