00
Correct
00
Incorrect
00 : 00 : 00
Session Time
00 : 00
Average Question Time ( Secs)
  • Question 1 - The Medical Admissions unit receives a 71-year-old woman. She has type 2 diabetes,...

    Incorrect

    • The Medical Admissions unit receives a 71-year-old woman. She has type 2 diabetes, which she manages with diet, but she has been feeling ill for the past 48 hours.

      Her pulse rate is 110 beats per minute, her blood pressure is 90/50 mmHg, and she is clinically dehydrated. Her respiratory rate is 20 breaths per minute, and chest auscultation reveals no focal signs.

      The following are the lab results:

      Glucose 27.4 mmol/L (3.5-5.5)
      Ketones 2.5 mmol/L (<0.1)
      Urinary glucose is zero (dipstick) with ketones

      A random blood glucose of 15.3 mmol/L was measured during a visit to the diabetic clinic one month prior to admission, according to her notes, and a urinary dipstick registered a high glucose and ketones++.

      The discrepancy between plasma and urinary glucose measurements is best explained by which of the following physiological mechanisms?

      Your Answer: The renal plasma glucose threshold is abnormally low

      Correct Answer: The glomerular filtration rate is abnormally low

      Explanation:

      The glucose molecule enters the Bowman’s capsule freely and becomes part of the filtrate.

      All glucose is reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubule when blood glucose concentrations are below a certain threshold (approximately 11 mmol/L) (PCT). Active transportation makes this possible. In the proximal tubular cells, sodium/glucose cotransporters (SGLT1 and SGLT2) are the proteins responsible.

      Glucose does not normally appear in the urine below the renal threshold.

      The renal glucose threshold is not set in stone and is affected by a variety of factors, including GFR, TmG, and the quantity of splay.

      The different absorptive and filtering capacities of individual nephrons cause splay, which is the rounding of a glucose reabsorption curve.

      The SGLT proteins have a high affinity for glucose, but not an infinite affinity. As a result, some glucose may escape reabsorption before the TmG. A decrease in renal threshold may be caused by an increase in splay.

      Because the filtered glucose load is reduced and the PCT can reabsorb all of the filtered glucose despite hyperglycaemia, a low GFR causes an increase in TmG. In contrast, lowering the TmG lowers the threshold because the tubules’ ability to reabsorb glucose is reduced.

      A reduction in GFR caused by severe dehydration and reduced perfusion pressure is the most obvious cause of the discrepancy between plasma and urinary glucose in this scenario.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      13.6
      Seconds
  • Question 2 - A 24-year old female is brought to the emergency room due to urticarial...

    Incorrect

    • A 24-year old female is brought to the emergency room due to urticarial rash and shortness of breath. Her mother reported that, prior to the symptoms, she took Co-amoxiclav (Augmentin) for her present ear infection. She also reported that she had no previous exposure to penicillin or any other related antibiotics.

      Which of the following can help to differentiate between type 1 and type II hypersensitivity reaction in this case?

      Your Answer: Serum mast cell tryptase > 11.5 ng/mL

      Correct Answer: IgE assay specific for amoxycilloyl

      Explanation:

      Serum specific IgE assays against allergen sources/molecules are the most commonly used in vitro diagnostic approach. The measurement of specific IgE recognizing allergenic epitopes can be achieved both through the usage of single reagents (singleplex) or with a pre-defined panel of a number of molecules to be tested simultaneously (multiplex).

      Several clinical entities have been described and those occurring immediately after drug exposure are immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated and explored by skin testing and by the in vitro measurement of serum-specific IgE. The sensitivity of these tests is not 100% and even for patients with a clear positive history, a drug provocation test may be required in order to confirm the diagnosis. The advantages of the in vitro determination of specific IgE antibodies when compared with in vivo testing are that the former poses no direct risk to the patient and does not require personnel with expertise. Even though in vitro tests are recommended in immediate hypersensitivity reactions, their exact place in the diagnostic procedure is not clear and certain authors do not use this method in daily practice. In one study, in terms of sensitivity, 11 of 26 patients (42%) with negative skin tests and a positive drug provocation challenge (or repeated clinical history) had specific IgE to benzylpenicilloyl or amoxicilloyl (4). The specificity of the test was 95–100%. Therefore, IgE measurements can avoid a potentially harmful drug provocation test.

      An elevated serum tryptase does not differentiate between type 1 and type 2 hypersensitivity reaction. It indicates mast cell degranulation.

      RAST is a useful aid to improve the overall diagnosis of drug allergies by using radioactive detection. This, however, is now rarely used.

      Quantification of basophil activation by CD63 expression can be done by flow cytometry, which forms the basis of experimental drug-induced basophil stimulation tests.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      7.7
      Seconds
  • Question 3 - An otherwise fit 7-year-old boy for an elective tonsillectomy is seen holding a...

    Incorrect

    • An otherwise fit 7-year-old boy for an elective tonsillectomy is seen holding a bottle of sugared orange squash at anaesthetic assessment . He appears to have consumed 120 mL of the bottle's contents.

      What is the minimal safe fasting time prior to proceeding with a general anaesthetic in this patient?

      Your Answer: 4 hours

      Correct Answer: 1 hour

      Explanation:

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      13.7
      Seconds
  • Question 4 - Iron is one of the most important micronutrients in the body.

    Out of...

    Incorrect

    • Iron is one of the most important micronutrients in the body.

      Out of the following, which one has the most abundant storage of iron in the body?

      Your Answer: Myoglobin

      Correct Answer: Haemoglobin

      Explanation:

      Iron is a necessary micronutrient for proper erythropoietic function, oxidative metabolism, and cellular immune responses. Although dietary iron absorption (1-2 mg/d) is tightly controlled, it is only just balanced by losses.

      The adult body contains 35-45 mg/kg iron (about 4-5 g)

      Iron can be found in a variety of forms, including haemoglobin, ferritin, haemosiderin, myoglobin, haem enzymes, and transferrin bound proteins.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      5.1
      Seconds
  • Question 5 - Calcium homeostasis is regulated by parathormone (PTH).

    Which of the following PTH actions is...

    Incorrect

    • Calcium homeostasis is regulated by parathormone (PTH).

      Which of the following PTH actions is most likely to cause calcium to be released from bone?

      Your Answer: Direct stimulation of osteoclasts

      Correct Answer: Indirect stimulation of osteoclasts

      Explanation:

      The hormone parathyroid hormone (PTH) and the receptor parathyroid hormone type 1 (PTH1-Rc) are important regulators of blood calcium homeostasis.

      PTH can cause a rapid release of calcium from the matrix in bone, but it also affects long-term calcium metabolism by acting directly on bone-forming osteoblasts (by binding to PTH1-Rc) and indirectly on bone-resorbing osteoclasts.

      PTH causes changes in the synthesis and/or activity of several proteins, including osteoclast-differentiating factor, also known as TRANCE or RANKL, when it acts on osteoblasts.

      RANK receptors are found on the cell surfaces of osteoclast precursors. The osteoclasts are activated when RANKL binds to the RANK receptors. Osteoclasts lack PTH receptors, whereas osteoblasts do. Osteoclasts are activated indirectly when the RANK receptor binds to the RANKL secreted by osteoblasts, resulting in bone resorption. PTH1 receptors are found in osteoclasts, but they are few.

      PTH activates G-protein coupled receptors in all target cells via adenylate cyclase.

      The PTH2 receptor is most abundant in the nervous system and pancreas, but it is not a calcium metabolism regulator. It is abundant in the septum, midline thalamic nuclei, several hypothalamic nuclei, and the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, as well as the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. Expression in pancreatic islet somatostatin cells is the most prominent on the periphery.

      The distribution of the receptor is being used to test functional hypotheses. It may play a role in pain modulation and hypothalamic releasing-factor secretion control.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      15.5
      Seconds
  • Question 6 - A 56-year old man, presents to emergency department following a cardiac arrest. On...

    Incorrect

    • A 56-year old man, presents to emergency department following a cardiac arrest. On history and examination, he is found to be suffering from both metabolic and respiratory acidosis as a result of his cardiac arrest.

      What is the best way to reduce the risk of acidaemia during cardiac arrest

      Your Answer: Ventilation

      Correct Answer: Chest compressions

      Explanation:

      Chest compressions are an essential part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) which helps restore spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

      Sodium bicarbonate is only prescribed in patients with cardiac arrests as a result of an overdose of tricyclic antidepressants or hyperkalaemia. Its use causes the body to produce more CO2 which causes:

      Exacerbation of intracellular acidosis
      Negative inotropy to ischaemic myocardium
      Increased osmotic load of sodium into failing brain and body
      Shift of oxygen dissociation curve to the left.

      THAM is often used to treat metabolic acidosis as a result of cardiac bypass surgery and also cardiac arrest, when other standard methods have failed.

      Carbicarb (Na2CO3 0.33 molar NaHCO3 0.33 molar) has only mild effects on acidosis. It also causes an increase in arterial CO2 pressure and lactate concentration.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      33.3
      Seconds
  • Question 7 - A 68-year old female is brought to the Emergency Room for abdominal pain....

    Incorrect

    • A 68-year old female is brought to the Emergency Room for abdominal pain. Medical history revealed that she is on long-term warfarin therapy for deep vein thrombosis.

      Upon further investigation, the patient is hypotensive at 80/60 mmHg, and an abdominal mass is palpable on the umbilical area. An initial diagnosis of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is made. Moreover, blood tests show an international normalised ratio (INR) of 4.2.

      Which of the following products should be initially transfused or administered to the patient to reverse the anticoagulation?

      Your Answer: Fresh frozen plasma

      Correct Answer: Prothrombin complex

      Explanation:

      Warfarin prevents reductive metabolism of the inactive vitamin K epoxide back to its active hydroquinone form. Thus, warfarin inhibits the synthesis of vitamin K dependent clotting factors: X, IX, VII, II (prothrombin), and of the anticoagulants protein C and protein S. The therapeutic range for oral anticoagulant therapy is defined in terms of an international normalized ratio (INR). The INR is the prothrombin time ratio (patient prothrombin time/mean of normal prothrombin time for lab)ISI, where the ISI exponent refers to the International Sensitivity Index and is dependent on the specific reagents and instruments used for the determination. A prolonged INR is widely used as an indication of integrity of the coagulation system in liver disease and other disorders, it has been validated only in patients in steady state on chronic warfarin therapy.

      Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is used to replace congenital or acquired vitamin-K deficiency warfarin-induced anticoagulant effect, particularly in the emergent setting.

      Intravenous vitamin K has a slower onset of action compared to PCC, but is useful for long term therapy.

      Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) prepared from freshly donated blood is the usual source of the vitamin K-dependent factors and is the only source of factor V. The factors needed, however, are found in small quantities compared to PCC.

      Cryoprecipitate is indicated for hypofibrinogenemia/dysfibrinogenemia, von Willebrand disease, haemophilia A, factor XIII deficiency, and management of bleeding related to thrombolytic therapy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      4.5
      Seconds
  • Question 8 - During a squint surgery, a 5-year-old child developed severe bradycardia as a result...

    Incorrect

    • During a squint surgery, a 5-year-old child developed severe bradycardia as a result of the oculocardiac reflex.

      The afferent limb of this reflex is formed by which nerve?

      Your Answer: Facial nerve

      Correct Answer: Trigeminal nerve

      Explanation:

      When the eye is compressed or the extra-ocular muscles are tractioned, the oculocardiac reflex causes a decrease in heart rate.

      The ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve provides the afferent limb. This synapses with the vagus nerve’s visceral motor nucleus in the brainstem. The efferent signal is carried by the vagus nerve to the heart, where increased parasympathetic tone reduces sinoatrial node output and slows heart rate.

      The most common symptom is sinus bradycardia, but junctional rhythm and asystole can also occur.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      15.2
      Seconds
  • Question 9 - A 30-year-old woman admitted following a tonsillectomy has developed stridor with a respiratory...

    Incorrect

    • A 30-year-old woman admitted following a tonsillectomy has developed stridor with a respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute and obstructive movements of the chest and abdomen that is in a see-saw pattern .

      Her SpO2 is 92% on 60% oxygen with pulse rate 120 beats per minute while her blood pressure is 180/90mmHg. She is repeatedly trying to remove the oxygen mask and appears anxious.

      Her pharynx is suctioned and CPAP applied with 100% oxygen via a Mapleson C circuit.

      Which of these is the most appropriate next step in her management?

      Your Answer: Administer intravenous suxamethonium 1 mg/kg

      Correct Answer: Administer intravenous propofol 0.5 mg/kg

      Explanation:

      Continuous closure of the vocal cords resulting in partial or complete airway obstruction is called Laryngospasm. It is a reflex that helps protect against pulmonary aspiration.

      Predisposing factors include: Hyperactive airway disease, Insufficient depth of anaesthesia, Inexperience of the anaesthetist, Airway irritation, Smoking, Shared airway surgery and Paediatric patients

      Its primary treatment includes checking for blood or stomach aspirate in the pharynx, removing any triggering stimulation, relieving any possible supra-glottic component to airway obstruction and application of CPAP with 100% oxygen.

      In this patient, all the above has been done and the next treatment of choice is the administration of a rapidly acting intravenous anaesthetic agent such as propofol (0.5 mg/kg) in increments as it has been reported to relieve laryngospasm in approximately 75% of cases. Administering suxamethonium to an awake patient would be inappropriate at this stage.

      Magnesium and lidocaine are used for prevention rather than acute treatment of laryngospasm. Superior laryngeal nerve blocks have been reported to successfully treat recurrent laryngospasm but it is not the next logical step in index patient.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      12.5
      Seconds
  • Question 10 - With a 10-day history of severe vomiting, a 71-year-old man with a gastric...

    Incorrect

    • With a 10-day history of severe vomiting, a 71-year-old man with a gastric outlet obstruction is admitted to the surgical ward.

      The serum biochemical results listed below are available:

      Sodium 128 mmol/L (137-144)
      Potassium 2.6 mmol/L (3.5-4.9)
      Chloride 50 mmol/L (95-107)
      Urea 12 mmol/L (2.5-7.5)
      Creatinine 180 µmol/L (60-110)

      Which of the following do you think you are most likely to encounter?

      Your Answer: pH 7.4-7.45

      Correct Answer: The standard base excess will be higher than actual base excess

      Explanation:

      Hydrochloric acid is lost when you vomit for a long time (HCl). As a result, the following can be expected, in varying degrees of severity:

      Hypokalaemia
      Hypochloraemia
      Increased bicarbonate to compensate for chloride loss and metabolic alkalosis

      The alkalosis causes potassium to move from the intracellular to the extracellular compartment at first. Long-term vomiting and dehydration cause potassium to be excreted by the kidneys in order to conserve sodium. Dehydration can cause urea and creatinine levels to rise.

      The actual base excess is always greater than the standard base excess.

      The actual base excess (BE) is a measurement of a base’s contribution to a blood gas picture’s metabolic component. It’s the amount of base that needs to be added to a blood sample to bring the pH back to 7.4 after the respiratory component of a blood gas picture has been corrected (PaCO2 of 40 mmHg or 5.3 kPa). The BE has a normal range of +2 to 2. A large positive BE indicates a severe metabolic alkalosis, while a large negative BE indicates a severe metabolic acidosis. As a result, the actual BE in vitro is unaffected by CO2.

      In vivo, however, standard BE is not independent of pCO2 because blood with haemoglobin acts as a better buffer than total ECF.

      As a result, it is impossible to tell the difference between compensating for a respiratory disorder and compensating for the presence of a primary metabolic disorder.

      The differences between in vitro and in vivo behaviour can be mostly eliminated if the BE is calculated for a haemoglobin concentration of 50 g/L (the ‘effective’ or virtual value of Hb if it was distributed throughout the extracellular space) rather than the actual haemoglobin. Because haemoglobin has a lower buffering capacity, the standard BE is higher than the actual BE. It reflects the BE better in the extracellular space rather than just the intravascular compartment.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      15.3
      Seconds
  • Question 11 - A 68-year old man, is admitted in hospital. He is scheduled to undergo...

    Incorrect

    • A 68-year old man, is admitted in hospital. He is scheduled to undergo a femoro-popliteal bypass graft, for which he has been administered a spinal-epidural anaesthetic. Intrathecal heavy bupivacaine (0.5%) was injected at L3-4 with good effect. On insertion of the epidural catheter, he remained asymptomatic.

      During surgery, 5000 I.U. of IV heparin was given. The surgery is successful and required no epidural top-ups.

      Six hours later, he complains of a severe back pain with weakness in his lower limbs.

      What is the most important first step?

      Your Answer: Administer simple analgesics and observe

      Correct Answer: A full neurological examination to establish the nature of the problem

      Explanation:

      The most likely diagnosis is a spinal epidural haematoma, a neurological emergency. A full examination must be carried out to determine the nature of the neurological problem before conducting any investigations or imaging.

      The effects of spinal anaesthesia should have worn off by this time point, and the severe back pain is a red flag.

      The patient will also require an urgent neurological team referral as a spinal epidural haematoma requires immediate evacuation for spinal decompression. Analgesics may be prescribed for pain management.

      Heparin would have been fully metabolised and so a reversal is unnecessary.

      A spinal epidural haematoma is a pooling of blood in the epidural space, which can cause compression of the spinal cord. Its presenting symptoms are:

      Usually begins with severe backpain and percussion tenderness
      Cauda equina syndrome
      Paralysis of the lower extremities.
      If infected, a fever occurs in 66% of cases
      Lower limb weakness developing after stopping an epidural infusion or weakness of the lower limbs which does not resolve within four hours of cessation of infusion of epidural local anaesthetic
      Meningism.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      2.9
      Seconds
  • Question 12 - Which of the following is included in monosynaptic reflexes? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following is included in monosynaptic reflexes?

      Your Answer: The corneal reflex.

      Correct Answer: The patellar or knee jerk reflex.

      Explanation:

      Monosynaptic reflexes is a type of reflex arc providing direct communication between motor and sensory innervation in a muscle. It occurs very quickly as it arises and ends in the same muscle. Examples include: biceps reflex, brachioradialis reflex, extensor digitorum reflex, triceps reflex, Achilles reflex and patellar reflex.

      Polysynaptic reflexes facilitates contraction and inhibition in muscle by providing communication between multiple muscles.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      11.5
      Seconds
  • Question 13 - A patient is evaluated for persistent dysphonia six months after undergoing a subtotal...

    Incorrect

    • A patient is evaluated for persistent dysphonia six months after undergoing a subtotal thyroidectomy.

      Which of the following is the most likely reason for the change in this patient's voice?

      Your Answer: Damage to external branch of external laryngeal nerve

      Correct Answer: Damage to recurrent laryngeal nerve

      Explanation:

      After thyroid surgery, about 10-15% of patients experience a temporary subjective voice change of varying degrees. A frog in the throat or cracking of the voice, or a weak voice, are common descriptions. These modifications are only temporary, lasting a few days to a few weeks.

      Swelling of the muscles in the area of the dissection, as well as inflammation and oedema of the larynx due to the dissection, or minor trauma from the tracheal tube, are all suspected causes.

      On both sides of the thyroid gland, the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) runs along the upper part. The muscles that fine-tune the vocal cords are innervated by these nerves. The quality of their voice is usually normal if they are injured, but making high-pitched sounds may be difficult. Injury to the EBSLN occurs in about 2% of the population.

      Injuries to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) have been reported to occur in 1 percent to 14 percent of people. Except for the cricothyroid muscle, the RLN supplies all of the laryngeal intrinsic muscles.

      This complication is usually unilateral and temporary, but it can also be bilateral and permanent, and it can be intentional or unintentional. The most common complication following thyroid surgery is a permanent lesion of damaged RLN, which manifests as an irreversible phonation dysfunction.

      The crico-arytenoid joint dislocation is a relatively uncommon complication of tracheal intubation and blunt neck trauma. The probability is less than one in a thousand.

      Vocal cord polyps affect 0.8 percent of people.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      5.2
      Seconds
  • Question 14 - Which of the following statements is true about the in-hospital management of ventricular...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following statements is true about the in-hospital management of ventricular fibrillation?

      Your Answer: A single precordial thump is futile

      Correct Answer: Amiodarone may be administered following a third DC shock

      Explanation:

      Ventricular fibrillation (VT) is an arrhythmia caused by a distortion in the organized contraction of the ventricles leading to an inability to pump blood out into the body.

      Amiodarone is an anti arrhythmic drug used for the treatment of ventricular and atrial fibrillations. It is the gold standard of treatment for refractory pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF).

      Guidelines for emergency treatment state that only the rescuer carrying out chest compressions on the patient may stand near the defibrillator as it charges.

      Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during cardiac arrest is required for 2 minute cycles.

      Hypovolaemia is as a cause of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) can be reversed using fluid resuscitation, whereas hypotension during cardiac arrest is either persistent or undetectable and is therefore irreversible.

      Hyperkalaemia and hypocalcaemia are treated using calcium salts, but calcium chloride is often preferred over calcium gluconate.

      During a pulseless VT or VF, a single precordial thump will be effective if administered within the first seconds of the occurrence of a shockable rhythm.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      31.5
      Seconds
  • Question 15 - A 28-year-old woman who is 36 weeks pregnant presented with significant proteinuria and...

    Incorrect

    • A 28-year-old woman who is 36 weeks pregnant presented with significant proteinuria and severe headache. On examination, the blood pressure recorded was consistently raised at 190/110. Subsequently, she was admitted to the labour ward as a case of pre-eclampsia.

      A loading dose of IV magnesium sulphate 4g is given, followed by a 1g/hour infusion.

      The most suitable parameter to access magnesium toxicity is?

      Your Answer: Vital capacity

      Correct Answer: Tendon reflexes

      Explanation:

      Magnesium is a very important cation due to its various physiological roles in the body. This includes:
      – playing the role of a cofactor in many enzymatic reactions
      – influencing hormone receptor binding
      – affecting calcium channels
      – impact on cardiac, vascular and neural cells

      Magnesium sulphate is used as first line in the treatment of eclampsia. Moreover, it has some preventive role in patients with severe pre-eclampsia. All the clinical effects of magnesium are in line with its plasma concentration.

      The first sign of magnesium toxicity in obstetric patients is the loss of patellar reflex, which is regularly monitored during treatment. The other options are all late signs of magnesium toxicity.

      Whenever there is a doubt, serum magnesium levels should always be monitored.

      The table below correlates the effects of increased levels of magnesium on the body:

      Plasma Concentration
      (mmol/L) Effect
      0.7-1.2 Normal
      4-8 Decreased deep tendon reflexes, nausea, headache, weakness, malaise, lethargy and facial flushing
      5-10 ECG changes (prolonged PR, prolonged QT, and widened QRS)
      10 Muscle weakness, loss of deep tendon reflexes, hypotension
      15 SA/AV nodal block, respiratory paralysis and depression
      20 Cardiac arrest

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      1.9
      Seconds
  • Question 16 - Which of the following statements is true about monoamine oxidase (MOA) enzymes? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following statements is true about monoamine oxidase (MOA) enzymes?

      Your Answer: Three distinct types have been identified

      Correct Answer: Type A and type B are found in the liver and brain

      Explanation:

      Monoamine oxidase (MOA) enzymes are responsible for the catalyses of monoamine oxidative deamination. It assists the degradation of serotonin, norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine.

      They are found in the mitochondria of most central and peripheral nerve tissues.

      There are 2 different types:

      Type A: Whose main function it to inactivate dopamine, tyramine, norepinephrine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. In addition to the nervous system, it is also found in the liver, brain gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary endothelium and placenta
      Type B: Whose main function is to inactivate dopamine, tyramine, tryptamine and phenylethylamine. In addition to the nervous system, it is also found in the liver, brain (especially in the basal ganglia) and blood platelets.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      19.5
      Seconds
  • Question 17 - A 72-year-old long-term rheumatoid arthritis patient is having shoulder replacement surgery.

    He has chronic...

    Incorrect

    • A 72-year-old long-term rheumatoid arthritis patient is having shoulder replacement surgery.

      He has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with a limited exercise tolerance. He agrees to the procedure being performed with an interscalene brachial plexus block.

      Which of the following neurological complications puts this patient at the greatest risk?

      Your Answer: Cervical nerve root block

      Correct Answer: Phrenic nerve block

      Explanation:

      An ipsilateral phrenic nerve block will result from a successful interscalene block (ISB).

      The phrenic nerve is the diaphragm’s sole motor supply, and ipsilateral hemidiaphragmatic paresis affects up to 100% of patients who receive ISBs. Phrenic nerve palsy is usually well tolerated and goes unnoticed by healthy people. However, forced vital capacity decreases by approximately 25%, which can produce ventilatory compromise in patients with limited pulmonary reserve, requiring assisted ventilation.

      Vocal cord palsy occurs when the recurrent laryngeal nerve is inadvertently blocked, causing hoarseness and possibly acute respiratory insufficiency. Unless bilateral laryngeal nerve palsy occurs, which can cause severe laryngeal obstruction, this complication is usually of little consequence.

      ISB can also cause cranial nerve X and XII palsy (Tapia’s syndrome). One-sided cord paralysis, aphonia, and the patient’s tongue deviating toward the block’s side are all symptoms.

      When a local anaesthetic spreads to the stellate ganglion and its cervical sympathetic nerves, Horner’s syndrome can develop. Ptosis of the eyelid, miosis, and anhidrosis of the face are all symptoms. Horner’s syndrome, on the other hand, may not indicate that the brachial plexus is sufficiently blocked.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      9.5
      Seconds
  • Question 18 - Which of the following statements is correct regarding hypomagnesaemia? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following statements is correct regarding hypomagnesaemia?

      Your Answer: Is often due to prolonged use of potassium sparing diuretics

      Correct Answer: Causes tetany

      Explanation:

      The ECG changes seen in hypomagnesaemia include:

      Prolonged PR interval
      Prolonged QT interval
      Flattening of T waves
      ST segment depression
      Prominent U waves

      These changes are almost the same as those of hypokalaemia.

      There is an increased risk of digoxin toxicity and a risk of atrial and ventricular ectopic and ventricular arrhythmias.

      There is impaired synthesis and release of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in chronic hypomagnesaemia leading to impaired target organ response to PTH. This produces secondary hypocalcaemia.

      The use of potassium ‘wasting’ diuretics (e.g. loop diuretics like furosemide) may lead to Hypomagnesaemia.

      A tall T wave is seen in hypermagnesemia.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      15.8
      Seconds
  • Question 19 - A 33-year-old woman known to be hypothyroid and taking 150 mcg l-thyroxine daily...

    Incorrect

    • A 33-year-old woman known to be hypothyroid and taking 150 mcg l-thyroxine daily is reviewed in the preoperative assessment clinic prior to a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

      She has required three increases in her thyroid replacement therapy in the last six months.

      Her thyroid function tests are as follows:

      TSH 11 (normal range 0.4-4mU/L)
      T3 20 (normal range 9-25mU/L)
      T4 6.2 (normal range 3.5-7.8mU/L)

      What will explain this biochemical picture?

      Your Answer: Tissue level unresponsiveness to thyroid hormone

      Correct Answer: Poor compliance with medication

      Explanation:

      In patients with an intact hypothalamic-pituitary axis, serial TSH measurements are used to determine the adequacy of treatment with thyroid hormones . changes in TSH levels becoming apparent after approximately eight weeks of therapy with thyroid hormone replacement. Change in T3/T4 levels are seen before changes in TSH .

      In patients taking thyroid replacement therapy, the most frequent reason for persistent elevation of serum TSH is poor compliance. Patients who do not regularly take their L-thyroxine try and catch up just before a visit to a clinician for blood test.

      Tissue-level unresponsiveness to thyroid hormone is caused by mutation in the gene controlling a receptor for T3 and is rare.

      Reduced responsiveness of target tissues to thyroid hormone aka resistance to thyroid hormones (rTH) occurs when there is a mutation in the thyroid hormone receptor ? gene. It is a rare autosomal dominant inherited syndrome of reduced end-organ responsiveness to thyroid hormone and has two types:

      Generalised resistance (GrTH)
      Pituitary resistance (PrTH)

      Patients with rTH have normal or slightly elevated serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level, elevated serum free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) concentrations.

      Drugs that increase metabolism of thyroxine include:

      Warfarin
      Rifampin
      Phenytoin
      Phenobarbital
      St John’s Wort
      Carbamazepine

      These drugs lower circulating thyroid hormones and would be associated with a raised TSH but low T3/T4.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      14.2
      Seconds
  • Question 20 - The following statements are about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which is true?...

    Incorrect

    • The following statements are about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which is true?

      Your Answer: In advanced cases the pulmonary vascular resistance is reduced

      Correct Answer: Inhaled corticosteroid usage slows the decline in health status

      Explanation:

      Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an obstructive, inflammatory lung condition. It encompasses symptoms of emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma.

      Inhaling high dose steroids are prescribed to treat COPD. They are effective at reducing symptoms and improving lung function. They also work to reduce the number of hospitalisations by decreasing the number of acute exacerbation events. Despite providing effective symptom relief, it cannot slow down the decline of FEV1 as COPD is an irreversible condition.

      COPD reduces the FEV1 measurements, as well as the FEV1/FVC ratio.

      Breathlessness is a major COPD symptom and can occur at any point in the disease progression, including at an FEV1 >50%.

      FEV1 is used in COPD staging, and it is classed as follows:
      >80%: Mild or stage I
      50 – 79%: Moderate or stage II
      30 – 49%: Severe or stage III
      <30%: Very severe or stage IV
      Patients with mild COPD are usually able to manage their condition on their own, however once the disease progresses to moderate, more GP visits are required, with those in the severe category requiring frequent hospitalisation.

      Asthma is correlated to an increase in transfer factor. COPD (emphysema) is correlated to a decreased transfer factor.

      COPD predisposes to eventual pulmonary hypertension as a result of an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      16.9
      Seconds
  • Question 21 - An adult and a 7-year-old child are anatomically and physiologically very different.

    Which of...

    Incorrect

    • An adult and a 7-year-old child are anatomically and physiologically very different.

      Which of the following physiological characteristics of a 5-year-old most closely resembles those of a healthy adult?

      Your Answer: Minute ventilation (mL/kg/minute)

      Correct Answer: Dead space ratio

      Explanation:

      Whatever the age, the dead space ratio is 0.3. It’s the dead space (Vd) to tidal volume ratio (Vt).

      The glottis is the narrowest point of the upper airway in an adult, while the cricoid ring is the narrowest point in a child.

      A child’s airway resistance is much higher than an adult’s. The resistance to airflow increases as the diameter of a paediatric airway shrinks. The radius (r) to the power of 4 is inversely proportional to airway resistance (r4). As a result, paediatric patients are more susceptible to changes in airflow caused by a small reduction in airway diameter, such as caused by oedema.

      The compliance of a newborn’s lungs is very low (5 mL/cmH2O), but it gradually improves as lung size and elasticity grow. Lung compliance in an adult is 200 mL/cmH2O.

      In children, minute ventilation (mL/kg/minute) is much higher.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      5.9
      Seconds
  • Question 22 - Regarding the use of soda lime as part of a modern circle system...

    Incorrect

    • Regarding the use of soda lime as part of a modern circle system with a vaporiser outside the circuit (VOC), which of the following is its most deleterious consequence?

      Your Answer: Not employing volatile agent monitoring with vaporiser outside the circuit

      Correct Answer: Carbon monoxide formation

      Explanation:

      When using dry soda lime for VOCs, very high amounts of carbon monoxide may be produced, regardless of the inhalational anaesthetic agent used. The carbon monoxide produced is sufficient enough to cause cytotoxic and anaemic hypoxia. To prevent this, soda lime canisters are shaken well to even out the packing of granules. This can help to evenly distribute gas flow for proper CO2 absorption and ventilation.

      Compound A is formed when dry soda lime, or soda lime in high temperature, reacts with the inhalational anaesthetic Sevoflurane. Animal studies have shown renal toxicity in rats, but renal adverse effects in humans are yet to be observed.

      When monitors are not employed with VOCs, deleterious effects are not for certain. However, monitors not employed with vaporiser inside the circuit (VIC) can lead to significant adverse events.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      15.8
      Seconds
  • Question 23 - In North America, there have been reports of paediatric patients dying after undergoing...

    Correct

    • In North America, there have been reports of paediatric patients dying after undergoing adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea.

      Respiratory depression/obstruction is thought to be the cause of death. The codeine dose was 0.5-1 mg/kg, given every 4-6 hours.

      In this group of patients, which of the following is the most likely cause of respiratory depression and obstruction?

      Your Answer: Exaggerated metabolism of codeine

      Explanation:

      Codeine is easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and converted to morphine and norcodeine in the liver via O- and N-demethylation. Morphine and norcodeine are excreted almost entirely by the kidney, primarily as conjugates with glucuronic acid.

      By glucuronidation, phase II metabolism enzyme UDP-glucuronosyl transferase-2B7 converts morphine to morphine-3-glucuronide (M3G) and morphine-6-glucuronide (M6G) (UGT2B7).

      Approximately 60% of morphine is converted to M3G, with the remaining 6-10% converted to M6G. M3G is inactive, but M6G is said to be 4 to 650 times more potent on the MOP receptor than morphine.

      When codeine is consumed, cytochrome P450 2D6 in the liver converts it to morphine (CYP2D6).

      Some people have DNA variations that increase the activity of this enzyme, causing codeine to be converted to morphine more quickly and completely than in others. After taking codeine, these ultra-rapid metabolisers are more likely to have higher than normal levels of morphine in their blood.

      Respiratory depression/obstruction can be caused by high levels of morphine and M6G, especially in people who have a history of obstructive sleep apnoea. The estimated number of ultra-rapid metabolisers ranges from 1 to 7 per 100 people, but some ethnic groups may have as many as 28 per 100 people.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      9.1
      Seconds
  • Question 24 - Which of the following best describes the phenomenon of higher partial pressures of...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following best describes the phenomenon of higher partial pressures of oxygen in the alveoli (PAO2) in the lung apices when in the upright position?

      Your Answer: Apical units are less well perfused than the basal units

      Correct Answer: The ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) ratio is greater than in the basal units

      Explanation:

      The ventilation/perfusion ratio varies in different areas of the lung. In an upright individual, although both ventilation and perfusion increase from the apex to the base of the lung, the increase in ventilation is less than the increase in blood flow. As a result, the normal V̇ /Q̇ ratio at the apex of the lung is much greater than 1 (ventilation exceeds perfusion), whereas the V̇ /Q̇ ratio at the base of the lung is much less than 1 (perfusion exceeds ventilation).

      There is more volume in the alveoli found in the apices than in the bases of the lungs. This is due to the weight of the lung stretching the apical alveoli to the maximum size. Also, the weight of the lungs pull themselves away from the chest wall, creating a negative intrapleural pressure. These factors, however, do not directly affect the PAO2.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      20.6
      Seconds
  • Question 25 - Regarding aldosterone, one of the following is true. ...

    Incorrect

    • Regarding aldosterone, one of the following is true.

      Your Answer: Acts on specific cell surface receptors

      Correct Answer: Secretion is increased following haematemesis

      Explanation:

      Aldosterone is produced in the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex and acts to increase sodium reabsorption via intracellular mineralocorticoid receptors in the distal tubules and collecting ducts of the nephron.

      Its release is stimulated by hypovolaemia, blood loss ,and low plasma sodium and is inhibited by hypertension and increased sodium. It is regulated by the renin-angiotensin system.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      11.3
      Seconds
  • Question 26 - A 60 year old non insulin dependent diabetic on metformin undergoes hip arthroscopy...

    Incorrect

    • A 60 year old non insulin dependent diabetic on metformin undergoes hip arthroscopy under general anaesthesia.

      Her preoperative blood glucose is 6.5mmol/L. Anaesthesia is induced with 200 mg propofol and 100 mcg fentanyl and maintained with sevoflurane and air/oxygen mixture. she is given 8 mg dexamethasone, 40 mg parecoxib, 1 g paracetamol and 500 mL Hartmann's solution Intraoperatively.

      The procedure took thirty minutes and her blood glucose in recovery is 14 mmol/L.

      What is the most likely cause for her rise in blood sugar?

      Your Answer: Irrigation fluid

      Correct Answer: Stress response

      Explanation:

      A significant early feature of the metabolic response to trauma and surgery is hyperglycaemia. It is due to an increased glucose production and decreased glucose utilisation bought on by neuroendocrine stimulation. Catecholamines, Growth hormone, ACTH and cortisol, and Glucagon are all increased.

      There is also a decreased insulin sensitivity peripherally and an inhibition of insulin production from the beta cells of the pancreas. These changes lead to hyperglycaemia.

      The stress response to endoscopic surgery will only be prevented with use of high dose opioids or central neuraxial block at anaesthesia.
      To reduce the risk of inducing hyperchloremic acidosis, Ringer’s lactate/acetate or Hartmann’s solution is preferred to 0.9% sodium chloride as routine maintenance fluids.

      Though it has been suggested that administration of Hartmann’s solution to patients with type 2 diabetes leads to hyperglycaemia, one Litre of Hartmann’s solution would yield a maximum of 14.5 mmol of glucose. A rapid infusion of this volume would increase the plasma glucose by no more than 1 mmol/L..

      Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid, produces hyperglycaemia by stimulating gluconeogenesis . Glucocorticoids are agonists of intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. Their effects are mainly mediated via altered protein synthesis via gene transcription and so the onset of action is slow. The onset of action of dexamethasone is about one to four hours and therefore would NOT contribute to the hyperglycaemia in this patient in the time given.

      0.9% Normal saline with or without adrenaline is the usual irrigation fluid. With this type of surgery, systemic absorption is unlikely to occur.

      Fentanyl is not likely the primary cause of hyperglycaemia in this patient. In high doses (50 mcg/Kg) it has been shown to reduce the hyperglycaemic responses to surgery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      3.6
      Seconds
  • Question 27 - Over the course of 10 minutes, one litre of 0.9% normal saline is...

    Incorrect

    • Over the course of 10 minutes, one litre of 0.9% normal saline is intravenously infused into a normally fit and well 58-year-old male. A catheter is used to measure urine output before and after the infusion. The patient is 70 kg in weight.

      The following data on urine output is obtained:

      50ml/hour Before the infusion
      200 ml/hour 1 hour following infusion
      90 ml/hour 2 hours after the infusion
      60 ml/hr 3 hours after the infusion

      Which of the following physiological responses is most likely to account for the sudden increase in urine output after a fluid bolus?

      Your Answer: Osmotic diuresis

      Correct Answer: Increased glomerular filtration rate

      Explanation:

      The following are some basic assumptions:

      Extracellular fluid (ECF) makes up one-third of total body water (TBW), while intracellular fluid makes up the other two-thirds (ICF).
      One-quarter of ECF is plasma, and three-quarters is interstitial fluid (ISF).
      The volume receptors have a 7-10% blood volume change threshold. The osmoreceptors are sensitive to changes in osmolality of 1-2 percent.
      Prior to the transfusion, the plasma osmolality is normal (between 287 and 290 mOsm/kg).
      [Na+] in 0.9 percent N. saline is 154 mmol/L, which is similar to that of extracellular fluid. When given intravenously, this limits its distribution within the extracellular space, resulting in a plasma compartment:ISF volume ratio of 1:3.
      In this time frame, one litre of 0.9 percent N. saline will increase plasma volume by about 250 mL, which could be the threshold for activation of the volume receptors in the atria, resulting in the release of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP).

      Because 0.9 percent N. saline is isosmotic, after a 1 L infusion, plasma osmolality will not change. No changes in antidiuretic hormone secretion will be detected by the hypothalamic osmoreceptors.

      Because normal saline is protein-free, the oncotic pressure in the blood is slightly reduced after the saline infusion. As a result, fluid movement into the ISF is favoured (Starling’s hypothesis), and the lower oncotic pressure causes an immediate increase in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and a reduction in water reabsorption in the proximal tubule.

      The flow of urine increases. There is no hormonal intermediary in this effect, so it is strictly local. Urine flow immediately increases. The fluid returns to the intravascular compartment, and urine flow continues until all of the transfused fluid has been excreted.

      Blood pressure changes associated with a 1 L fluid infusion are unlikely to affect high-pressure baroreceptors in the carotid sinus.

      The juxta-glomerular cells of the afferent arteriole are adjacent to the specialised cells (macula densa) of distal tubules. The sodium and chloride ions in the tubular fluid are detected by the macula densa. Renin release is inhibited when the tubular fluid contains too much sodium chloride. Hormonal changes take longer to manifest than physical changes that control glomerulotubular balance.
      Hypertonic saline, not 0.9 percent N saline, is an osmotic diuretic.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      9.2
      Seconds
  • Question 28 - Suppose a diabetic patient is to undergo an elective surgery under general anaesthesia,...

    Incorrect

    • Suppose a diabetic patient is to undergo an elective surgery under general anaesthesia, which of the following will most effectively prevent a hyperglycaemic stress response during the surgical procedure?

      Your Answer: Fentanyl 200 mcg IV

      Correct Answer: Spinal block to T4

      Explanation:

      Every surgical procedure is associated with a stress response which comprises a number of endocrine, metabolic, and immunological changes triggered by neuronal activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The overall metabolic effect of the stress response to surgery includes an increase in secretion of catabolic hormones, such as cortisol and catecholamine, and a decrease in secretion of anabolic hormones, such as insulin and testosterone. The increase in levels of catabolic hormones in plasma stimulates glucose production, and there is a relative lack of insulin together with impaired tissue insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization, which is called insulin resistance. Consequently, blood glucose concentrations will increase, even in the absence of pre-existing diabetes.

      A study compared the effects of spinal and general anaesthesia on changes in blood glucose concentrations during surgery in nondiabetic patients. Although mean blood glucose concentrations showed a significant proportional increase during surgery in both groups, this effect was much more significant with general anaesthesia than with spinal anaesthesia. These results indicate that spinal anaesthesia is more effective than general anaesthesia in attenuating the hyperglycaemic response to surgery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      5.7
      Seconds
  • Question 29 - In the Advanced Life Support algorithm, intravenous epinephrine 1mg every three to five...

    Incorrect

    • In the Advanced Life Support algorithm, intravenous epinephrine 1mg every three to five minutes is indicated during in-hospital cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF) following three DC shocks.

      Which of the following indicates the most important reason for using epinephrine?

      Your Answer: There is good evidence that the use of epinephrine decreases the mortality from VF cardiac arrest

      Correct Answer: Preferential distribution of blood to the coronary and cerebral circulation

      Explanation:

      Epinephrine is used for the treatment of cardiac arrest because it causes vasoconstriction via the alpha-adrenergic (?1) receptor. This vasoconstriction increases cerebral and coronary blood flow by increasing mean arterial, aortic diastolic, and cerebral pressures. Furthermore, epinephrine is also a?1 and ?2 adrenoreceptor agonist which shows inotrope, chronotrope, and bronchodilator effects.
      – Adrenaline is also used to prolong the duration of action and decrease the systemic toxicity of local anaesthetics.
      – Preferred route of adrenaline in patients with cardiac arrest is i.v. followed by intra-osseous and endotracheal

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      7.1
      Seconds
  • Question 30 - Which of the following nerves is responsible for carrying taste sensation from the...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following nerves is responsible for carrying taste sensation from the given part of the tongue?

      Your Answer:

      Correct Answer: Anterior two thirds of tongue - facial nerve

      Explanation:

      Taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue is carried by chorda tympani, a branch of the facial nerve.

      The general somatic sensation of the anterior two-third of the tongue is supplied by the lingual nerve, a branch of the mandibular nerve.

      Both general somatic sensation and taste from the posterior third of the tongue are carried by the glossopharyngeal nerve.

      All the muscles of the tongue except palatoglossus are supplied by the hypoglossal nerve whereas palatoglossus is supplied by the vagus nerve. (This is because palatoglossus is the only tongue muscle derived from the fourth branchial arch)

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathophysiology
      0
      Seconds

SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY

Pathophysiology (24/29) 83%
Passmed