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Question 1
Correct
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A 32-year-old man presented with a metabolic acidosis and increased anion gap. What is the most likely cause of the changes of the anion gap in this patient?
Your Answer: Lactic acidosis
Explanation:High anion gap in metabolic acidosis is caused generally by the elevation of the levels of acids like ketones, lactate, sulphates in the body, which consume the bicarbonate ions. Other causes of a high anion gap include overdosing on salicylates, uraemia, rhabdomyolysis, hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia, or ingestion of toxins such as ethylene glycol, methanol, propyl alcohol, cyanide and iron.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 2
Correct
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What is the arterial sequence for an analgesic to reach the latissimus dorsi muscle assuming that your starting point is at the subclavian vein?
Your Answer: Subclavian – axillary – subscapular – thoracodorsal
Explanation:Assuming our starting point is the subclavian artery, the analgesic continues in the same vessel into the axillary artery, as it passes into the axilla. The axillary artery at the lower border of the subscapularis gives rise to the subcapsular artery which is considered the largest branch of the axillary artery. This circumflex scapular branch distributes a serratus branch before entering the substance of the muscle as the thoracodorsal artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 3
Correct
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A cell is classified on the basis of its regenerative ability. Which of the following cells represent a permanent cell?
Your Answer: Erythrocyte
Explanation:An erythrocyte is the last cell in the progeny of RBC cell division and is not capable of further division and regeneration. Hepatocytes, osteocytes and epithelium of kidney tubules are all stable cells. Colonic mucosa and pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells are all labile cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 4
Incorrect
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A 22-year old man presented with a mass in his left scrotum which was more prominent when standing and felt like a 'bag of worms'. Examination revealed a non-tender mass along the spermatic cord. Also, the right testis was larger than the left testis. What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Spermatocoele
Correct Answer: Varicocele
Explanation:Varicocele refers to dilatation and increased tortuosity of the pampiniform plexus – which is a network of veins found in spermatic cord that drain the testicle. Defective valves or extrinsic compression can result in outflow obstruction and cause dilatation near the testis. Normal diameter of the small vessels ranges from 0.5 – 1.5mm. A varicocele is a dilatation more than 2mm.
The plexus travels from the posterior aspect of testis into the inguinal canal with other structures forming the spermatic cord. They then form the testicular veins out of which the right testicular vein drains into the inferior vena cava and the left into the left renal vein.
It affects 15-20% men, and 40% of infertile males. Usually diagnosed in 15-25 years of age, they are rarely seen after 40 years of age. Because of the vertical path taken by the left testicular vein to drain into left renal vein, 98% idiopathic varicoceles occur on the left side. It is bilateral in 70% cases. Right-sided varicoceles are rare.
Symptoms include pain or heaviness in the testis, infertility, testicular atrophy, a palpable mass, which is non-tender and along the spermatic cord (resembling a ‘bag of worms’). The testis on the affected side might be smaller.
Diagnosis can be made by ultrasound. Provocative measures such as Valsalva manoeuvre or making the patient stand up to increase the dilatation by increasing the intra-abdominal venous pressure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 5
Incorrect
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Mallory bodies are characteristic of which of the following conditions?
Your Answer: Alcoholic fatty liver
Correct Answer: Alcoholic hepatitis
Explanation:Mallory bodies (or ‘alcoholic hyaline’) are inclusion bodies in the cytoplasm of liver cells, seen in patients of alcoholic hepatitis; and also in Wilson’s disease. These pathological bodies are made of intermediate keratin filament proteins that are ubiquinated or bound by proteins like heat chock protein. Being highly eosinophilic, they appear pink on haematoxylin and eosin staining.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 6
Correct
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Calculate the resistance of the artery if the pressure at one end is 60 mmHg, pressure at the other end is 20 mm Hg and the flow rate in the artery is 200 ml/min.
Your Answer: 0.2
Explanation:Flow in any vessel = Effective perfusion pressure divided by resistance, where effective perfusion pressure is the mean intraluminal pressure at the arterial end minus the mean pressure at the venous end. Thus, in the given problem, resistance = (60 − 20)/200 = 0.2 mmHg/ml per min.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 7
Incorrect
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Into which vein does the left and right inferior thyroid veins drain?
Your Answer: External jugular vein
Correct Answer: Brachiocephalic vein
Explanation:The brachiocephalic vein is formed by the confluence of the subclavian and internal jugular veins. In addition it receives drainage from: the left and right internal thoracic veins (also called internal mammary veins), left and right inferior thyroid veins and the left superior intercostal vein.
The superior thyroid veins and middle thyroid veins drain into the internal jugular vein. The right and left inferior thyroid veins to drain into their respective brachiocephalic veins (right and left). -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 8
Correct
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Which of the following arteries, if ligated, will most likely affect blood supply to the pancreas?
Your Answer: Superior mesenteric
Explanation:The pancreas is a glandular organ in the body that produces important hormones such as insulin and glucagon. Its blood supply is from branches of the coeliac artery, superior mesenteric artery and the splenic artery. These are the arteries that if ligated, would affect blood supply to the pancreas.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 9
Correct
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A histological examination of a lump showed an abnormal amount and arrangement of normal tissue in an otherwise normal area. This condition is known as?
Your Answer: Hamartoma
Explanation:A hamartoma is a condition best described as tissue normally present in an area arranged haphazardly in an disorganized, abnormal fashion. They are never malignant and do not metastasis.
All the neoplastic, cancerous lesions comprise of a mixture of different cells that are not normal to that area.
Metaplasia is a change in the type of the epithelium.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 10
Correct
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A 60 year old patient with a history of carcinoma of the head of the pancreas, and obstructive jaundice presents with a spontaneous nose bleed and easy bruising. What is the most likely reason for this?
Your Answer: Vitamin-K-dependent clotting factors deficiency
Explanation:Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin requiring fat metabolism to function properly to allow for its absorption. People with obstructive jaundice develop vitamin k deficiency as fat digestion is impaired. Vit K causes carboxylation of glutamate residue and hence regulates blood coagulation including: prothrombin (factor II), factors VII, IX, X, protein C, protein S and protein Z.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 11
Incorrect
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A 41 year old women presents with a history of carcinoma involving the right breast with enlarged axillary nodes on the same side. She underwent mastectomy and axillary node clearance. These were sent for histopathological examination. They showed no signs of metastasis. What could be cause of this enlargement in the lymph nodes?
Your Answer: Paracortical lymphoid hyperplasia
Correct Answer: Sinus histiocytosis
Explanation:Sinus histiocytosis also referred to as reticular hyperplasia, refers to the enlargement, distention and prominence of the sinusoids of the lymph nodes. This is a non-specific form of hyperplasia characteristically seen in lymph nodes that drain tumours. The endothelial lining of the lymph node becomes markedly hypertrophied, along with an increase in the number of macrophages which results in the distortion, distention and enlargement of the sinus. In this scenario there is no evidence that an infection or another malignancy could account for the enlargement. Paracortical lymphoid hyperplasia is caused by an immune response.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Female Health
- Pathology
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Question 12
Incorrect
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A 45-year-old man with short bowel syndrome requires parenteral nutrition. The solution of choice for parenteral nutrition is:
Your Answer: Darrow’s solution
Correct Answer: Crystalline amino acids
Explanation:Total parenteral nutrition (TPN), is the practice of feeding a person intravenously, circumventing the gut. It is normally used in the following situations: surgery, when feeding by mouth is not possible, when a person’s digestive system cannot absorb nutrients due to chronic disease or if a person’s nutrient requirement cannot be met by enteral feeding and supplementation. A sterile bag of nutrient solution, between 500 ml and 4L, is provided. The pump infuses a small amount (0.1–10 ml/h) continuously to keep the vein open. The nutrient solution consists of water, glucose, salts, amino acids, vitamins and sometimes emulsified fats. Ideally each patient is assessed individually before commencing on parenteral nutrition, and a team consisting of doctors, nurses, clinical pharmacists and dietitians evaluate the patient’s individual data and decide what formula to use and at what rate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 13
Incorrect
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Multiple, non-tender lymphadenopathy with biopsy showing several crowded follicles of small, monomorphic lymphocytes and the absence of Reed-Sternberg cells is seen in which of the following?
Your Answer: Hodgkin’s disease, lymphocyte predominance type
Correct Answer: Poorly differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma
Explanation:Malignant lymphoma usually causes non-tender lymphadenopathy, unlike the tender lymphadenopathy caused by infections (including infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr virus). Also, the lymphoid hyperplasia seen in infectious mononucleosis is benign and polyclonal.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 14
Correct
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Purkinje fibres in the heart conduct action potentials at the rate of:
Your Answer: 1.5–4.0 m/s
Explanation:Purkinje fibres control the heart rate along with the sinoatrial node (SA node) and the atrioventricular node (AV node). The QRS complex is associated with the impulse passing through the Purkinje fibres. These fibres conduct action potential about six times faster than the velocity in normal cardiac muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 15
Incorrect
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Out of the following options, which malignancy has the highest potential for multicentricity?
Your Answer: Adenocarcinoma of prostate
Correct Answer: Transitional cell carcinoma
Explanation:Transitional cell carcinomas can arise anywhere in the urothelium lining the urinary tract; and hence are known to be multicentric and recur commonly. Prostatic adenocarcinoma most commonly involves the posterior lobe of the prostate gland. Although renal cell carcinomas occasionally show multicentricity, it is not common. Penile carcinomas are usually locally infiltrative lesions. Wilm’s tumours are usually solitary, but can be bilateral or multicentric in 10% cases. Small cell carcinoma of lung and teratomas are usually solitary.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 16
Correct
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When at rest, which of the following will be higher in a marathon runner compared to an untrained individual?
Your Answer: Cardiac stroke volume
Explanation:Cardiac muscle hypertrophy is seen in trained athletes as compared to the normal population. This hypertrophy results in higher stroke volume at rest and increased cardiac reserve (maximum cardiac output during exercise). However, the cardiac output at rest is almost the same in both trained and untrained people. This is because in trained athletes, the heart rate is slower, even up to 40-50 beats/min. There is minimal affect of athletic training on oxygen consumption and respiratory rate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 17
Correct
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A 55 year old lady underwent an uneventful appendicectomy. Two hours later, her arterial blood gas analysis on room revealed pH: 7.30, p(CO2): 53 mmHg and p(O2): 79 mmHg. What is the most likely cause of these findings?
Your Answer: Alveolar hypoventilation
Explanation:In the given problem, there is respiratory acidosis due to hypercapnia from a low respiratory rate and/or volume (hypoventilation). Causes of hypoventilation include conditions impairing the central nervous system (CNS) respiratory drive, impaired neuromuscular transmission and other causes of muscular weakness (drugs and sedatives), along with obstructive, restrictive and parenchymal pulmonary disorders. Hypoventilation leads to hypoxia and hypercapnia reduces the arterial pH. Severe acidosis leads to pulmonary arteriolar vasoconstriction, systemic vascular dilatation, reduced myocardial contractility, hyperkalaemia, hypotension and cardiac irritability resulting in arrhythmias. Raised carbon dioxide concentration also causes cerebral vasodilatation and raised intracranial pressure. Over time, buffering and renal compensation occurs. However, this might not be seen in acute scenarios where the rise in p(CO2) occurs rapidly.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 18
Correct
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During cardiac catheterisation, if the blood sample from the catheter shows an oxygen saturation of 70%, and the pressure ranging from 12 to 24 mm Hg, it implies that the catheter tip is located in the:
Your Answer: Pulmonary artery
Explanation:Normal values for various parameters are as follows:
Systolic arterial blood pressure (SBP): 90–140 mmHg.
Diastolic arterial blood pressure: 60–90 mmHg.
Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP): SBP + (2 × DBP)/3 (normal range: 70-105 mmHg).
Right atrial pressure (RAP): 2–6 mmHg.
Systolic right ventricular pressure (RVSP): 15–25 mmHg.
Diastolic right ventricular pressure (RVDP): 0–8 mmHg.
Pulmonary artery pressure (PAP): Systolic (PASP) is 15-25 mmHg and Diastolic (PADP) is 8–15 mmHg.
Pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP): 6–12 mmHg.
Left atrial pressure (LAP): 6–12 mmHg.
Thus, the given value indicates that the position of catheter tip is likely to be in the pulmonary artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 19
Correct
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A cyclist fell and sustained a laceration to his elbow which was shortly sutured in the emergency department. Which of the following factors will aid in the wound healing process?
Your Answer: Presence of sutures
Explanation:Foreign bodies including sutures will delay wound healing, however due to the net affect being helpful they are used. Secondary wound infection will delay healing and is a potential post op complication. Corticosteroids depresses the wound healing ability of the body. Poor nutrition will also delay healing leading to decreased albumin, vit D and vit C. Diabetic patients with atherosclerosis with poor perfusion of tissues have notoriously delayed/poor healing.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 20
Incorrect
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From which fascia of the pelvic wall muscle does the levator ani muscle arise?
Your Answer: Iliacus
Correct Answer: Obturator internus
Explanation:The levator ani muscle arises from the posterior surface of the superior ramus of the pubis lateral to the symphysis, behind the inner surface of the spine of the ischium and between these points from the obturator internus fascia. It is attached to the inner surface of the side of the lesser pelvic cavity, supports the viscera in the cavity and surrounds the various structures that pass through it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Pelvis
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Question 21
Correct
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A patient underwent surgical excision of mass in the right carotid triangle. One day after the surgery patient complained of numbness of the skin over the right side of the neck. Injury to the cervical plexus of nerves is suspected. What is the possible nerve affected in this patient?
Your Answer: Transverse cervical
Explanation:The transverse cervical nerve (superficial cervical or cutaneous cervical) arises from the second and third spinal nerves, turns around the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid and, passing obliquely forward beneath the external jugular vein to the anterior border of the muscle, it perforates the deep cervical fascia, and divides beneath the platysma into the ascending and descending branches. It provides cutaneous innervation to this area.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 22
Correct
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Which of the following is likely to induce secretion of glucagon?
Your Answer: Low serum concentration of glucose
Explanation:The most potent stimulus for secretion of glucagon is hypoglycaemia whereas hyperglycaemia is a stimulus for insulin release. Glucagon secretion also occurs in response to high levels of amino acids. Somatostatin inhibits glucagon secretion. Parasympathetic stimulation increases pancreatic acinar secretion, but not of α-cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Physiology
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Question 23
Correct
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Multiple cells were labelled using a fluorescent dye that doesn’t cross the cell membrane. One cell in the middle was bleached with a light that destroys the dye, but the cell soon recovers its stain. The presence of which structures best explains this?
Your Answer: Gap junctions
Explanation:Gap junctions are attachments between cells that permit intercellular communication e.g. they permit current flow and electrical coupling between myocardial cells. They allow direct electrical transmission among cells and also permit certain substance to pass through as well. They are either homotypic, formed by two identical hemichannels or heterotypic, formed by different hemichannels.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 24
Correct
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The patient who is diagnosed with bladder cancer asked his physician, what could have been the contributing factor in the development of his bladder cancer?
Your Answer: Smoking
Explanation:Tobacco smoking is the main known contributor to urinary bladder cancer. In most populations, smoking is associated with over half of bladder cancer cases in men and one-third of cases among women.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 25
Correct
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During an exploratory laparotomy of an acute abdomen, the surgeon identified an inflamed Meckel's diverticulum. This is:
Your Answer: Is a site of ectopic pancreatic tissue
Explanation:Meckel’s diverticulum is an outpouching of the small intestine. It usually occurs about 0.6 m (2 feet) before the junction with the caecum. It can be lined with the mucosa of the stomach and may ulcerate. It may also be lined by ectopic pancreatic tissue. It represents the remains of the vitelline duct in early fetal life.
An abnormal persistence of the urachus is called a urachal fistula.
Failure of the midgut loop to return to the abdominal cavity is called an omphalocele.
Polyhydramnios is often caused by anencephaly or oesophageal fistula.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 26
Correct
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A patient admitted for esophagectomy showed low levels of the lightest plasma protein in terms of weight. Which of the following is the lightest plasma protein:
Your Answer: Albumin
Explanation:Albumin is the most abundant and the lightest of all the plasma proteins. It maintains osmotic pressure, transports unconjugated bilirubin, thyroid hormones, fatty acids, drugs and acts as a buffer for pH.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 27
Incorrect
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What is the linea aspera:
Your Answer: Is a landmark on the tibia
Correct Answer: Serves as an attachment for adductors of the thigh
Explanation:The linea aspera is a prominent longitudinal ridge or crest on the middle third of the femur. It has a medial and a lateral lip and a narrow, rough, intermediate line. The vastus medialis arises from the medial lip of the linea aspera and has superior and inferior prolongations. The vastus lateralis takes origin from the lateral lip . The adductor magnus is inserted into the linea aspera. Two muscles are attached between the vastus lateralis and the adductor magnus: the gluteus maximus is inserted above and the short head of the biceps femoris arises below. Four muscles are inserted between the adductor magnus and the vastus medialis: the iliacus and pectineus superiorly, and the adductor brevis and adductor longus inferiorly.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 28
Correct
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The gynaecologist suspects that her patient has a cervical cancer. What particular test should be done on this patient to screen for cervical cancer?
Your Answer: Pap smear
Explanation:Worldwide, approximately 500,000 new cases of cervical cancer and 274,000 deaths are attributable to cervical cancer yearly. This makes cervical cancer the second most common cause of death from cancer in women. The mainstay of cervical cancer screening has been the Papanicolaou test (Pap smear).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 29
Correct
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A nerve is injured during a surgical operation to repair an inguinal hernia. It passes through the superficial inguinal ring. Which nerve is it most likely to be?
Your Answer: Ilioinguinal
Explanation:The ilioinguinal nerve doesn’t pass through the deep inguinal ring but enters the inguinal canal from the side and leaves by passing through the superficial ring thus it is at risk of injury during inguinal hernia repair.
The femoral branch of genitofemoral nerve travels lateral to the superficial inguinal ring.
The iliohypogastric nerve and the subcostal nerve travel superior to the inguinal canal and superficial inguinal ring.
The obturator nerve is a branch of the lumbar plexus that innervates the muscles of the thigh.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 30
Correct
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A 58-year-old woman has had a headache, fever, lethargy and nausea for the last 10 days. He undergoes a CT scan which reveals a lesion in his frontal lobe, which, after a biopsy, is found to be formed by granulation tissue with collagenisation, gliosis and oedema. What's the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Chronic brain abscess
Explanation:A cerebral abscess can result from direct extension of cranial infections, penetrating head trauma, haematogenous spread, or for unknown causes. An abscess forms when an area of cerebral inflammation becomes necrotic and encapsulated by glial cells and fibroblasts. Oedema around the abscess can increase the intracranial pressure. Symptoms result from increased intracranial pressure and mass effects. In a CT scan, an abscess appears as an oedematous mass with ring enhancement.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 31
Correct
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the action of the semimembranosus muscle is:
Your Answer: Extension of the hip and flexion of the knee
Explanation:the semimembranosus is situated at the back and medial side of the thigh. It arises from the upper and outer impression on the tuberosity of the ischium, above and lateral to the biceps femoris and semitendinosus. It is inserted mainly into the horizontal groove on the posterior medial aspect of the medial condyle of the tibia. it flexes the knee and assists in extension of the hip.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 32
Correct
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When you rest your elbows on a desk, what bony landmark of the upper limb are you resting on?
Your Answer: Olecranon process of the ulna
Explanation:At the upper and back part of the ulna, there exists a curved eminence which is the olecranon process. This process lodges in the olecranon fossa of the humerus. It’s posterior surface is subcutaneous and this triangular area is what you rest your elbow upon.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 33
Correct
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Below which level of the spinal cord will the inferior gluteal nerve be unaffected?
Your Answer: S3
Explanation:The inferior gluteal nerve arises from the dorsal divisions of the fifth lumbar and first and second sacral nerves. According to this fact any lesion at or below the S3 will not affect the inferior gluteal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 34
Correct
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What class of drugs does buspirone belong to?
Your Answer: Anxiolytic
Explanation:Buspirone is an anxiolytic agent and a serotonin-receptor agonist that belongs to the azaspirodecanedione class of compounds. It shows no potential for addiction compared with other drugs commonly prescribed for anxiety, especially the benzodiazepines. The development of tolerance has not been noted. It is primarily used to treat generalized anxiety disorders. It is also commonly used to augment antidepressants in the treatment of major depressive disorder.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 35
Incorrect
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What is the nerve supply to the muscles of the lateral compartment of the leg ?
Your Answer: Common peroneal nerve
Correct Answer: Superficial peroneal nerve
Explanation:The peroneus longus and peroneus brevis in the lateral compartment of the leg take nerve supply from the superficial peroneal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 36
Correct
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Which is a feature of the action of insulin?
Your Answer: Promotes protein synthesis
Explanation:Insulin is produced by the beta-cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Its actions include:
– promoting uptake of glucose into cells
– glycogen synthesis (glycogenesis)
– protein synthesis
– stimulation of lipogenesis (fat formation).
– driving potassium into cells – used to treat hyperkaelamia.
Parathyroid hormone and activated vitamin D are the principal hormones involved in calcium/phosphate metabolism, rather than insulin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Physiology
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Question 37
Correct
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The nutcracker effect of the alimentary canal is described as a nutcracker-like compression caused by the aorta and the superior mesenteric arteries on a certain section of the alimentary canal leading to bowel obstruction. Which of the following parts of the alimentary canal is usually obstructed by this nutcracker compression of the two arteries?
Your Answer: Duodenum
Explanation:The ‘nutcracker effect’ is only seen in one part of the alimentary canal, and that is in the third part of the duodenum. This can happen when the superior mesenteric artery that passes across the duodenum and the aorta, posteriorly to the third part of the duodenum enlarges and starts compressing the duodenum. The result is an obstructed duodenum that inhibits passage of food.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 38
Correct
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During a case presentation, a 26 year old is said to have fractured his pelvis and shattered his coccyx following a motorbike accident. It is mentioned that he is likely to have lacerated his middle sacral artery from this kind of injury. Where does the middle sacral artery branch from?
Your Answer: Abdominal aorta
Explanation:The middle sacral artery arises from behind the aorta a little above the point of its bifurcation to descend down in front of L4,5, the sacrum and coccyx.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 39
Correct
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A 16-year old boy was brought in an unconscious state to the emergency department. Clinical evaluation pointed in favour of acute adrenal insufficiency. On enquiry, it was revealed that he was suffering from a high grade fever 24 hours prior. On examination, extensive purpura were noted on his skin. The likely diagnosis is:
Your Answer: Meningococcaemia
Explanation:Findings described are suggestive of Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome which develops secondary to meningococcaemia. The reported incidence of Addison’s disease is 4 in 100,000. It affects both sexes equally and is seen in all age groups. It tends to show clinical symptoms at the time of metabolic stress or trauma. The symptoms are precipitated by acute infections, trauma, surgery or sodium loss due to excessive perspiration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Pathology
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Question 40
Correct
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An intern is attempting to put in an arterial line in an ICU patients left foot. Which is the best site to feel for the pulsation of the dorsalis pedis artery in the foot?
Your Answer: Just lateral to the tendon of extensor hallucis longus
Explanation:The dorsalis pedis artery is the continuation of the anterior tibial artery. The pulse of the posterior tibial artery, which comes from the posterior compartment of the leg, may be felt behind the medial malleolus just lateral to the tendon of the extensor hallucis longus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 41
Correct
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Which of the following features is indicative of poor prognosis in a case of breast carcinoma?
Your Answer: Axillary lymph node metastases
Explanation:Lymphatic spread indicates poor prognosis. Presence of family history is not a prognostic factor despite being linked to higher incidence. Aneuploidy is a poor prognostic factor. A breast tumour positive for oestrogen receptors is a good prognostic factor as it increases the responsiveness of the tumour to certain therapies. In-situ tumours carry the best prognosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 42
Correct
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Difficulty in retracting the foreskin of the penis in an uncircumcised male is known as:
Your Answer: Phimosis
Explanation:Phimosis is the inability to fully retract the foreskin of the penis in an uncircumcised male. It can be physiological in infancy, in which it could be referred to as ‘developmental non-retractility of the foreskin. However, it is almost always pathological in older children and men. Causes include chronic inflammation (e.g. balanoposthitis), multiple catheterisations, or forceful foreskin retraction. One of the causes is chronic balanitis xerotica obliterans. It leads to development of a ring of indurated tissue near the tip of the prepuce, which prevents retraction. Contributory factors include infections, hormonal and inflammatory factors. The recommended treatment includes circumcision.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 43
Correct
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A 7-year-old boy is diagnosed with metabolic acidosis as a result of severe dehydration. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause severe dehydration and metabolic acidosis?
Your Answer: Severe diarrhoea
Explanation:Diarrhoea is defined as having three or more loose or liquid stools per day, or as having more stools than is normal for that person. Severe diarrhoea, causing fluid loss and loss of bicarbonate, will result in marked dehydration and metabolic acidosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 44
Correct
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Atrial septal defect (ASD) is most likely to be due to incomplete closure of which one of the following structures:
Your Answer: Foramen ovale
Explanation:Atrial septal defect is a congenital heart defect that results in a communication between the right and left atria of the heart and may involve the interatrial septum. It results from incomplete closure of the foramen ovale which is normally open during fetal life and closes just after birth.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 45
Correct
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Which of the following conditions is likely to result in splenomegaly, hypochromic anaemia and hemochromatosis in a young male?
Your Answer: β-Thalassaemia
Explanation:Beta-thalassaemia is due to decreased production of β-polypeptide chains, with an autosomal inheritance pattern. Carrier patients (heterozygotes) are asymptomatic and have mild to moderate microcytic anaemia. This is known as thalassaemia minor. Homozygotes (β-thalassaemia major, or Cooley’s anaemia) develop severe anaemia and marrow hyperactivity. The disease presents at 1-2 years of age with severe anaemia and transfusional and absorptive iron overload. Patients also present with jaundice, leg ulcers, massive splenomegaly and cholelithiasis. The disease can also lead to splenic sequestration leading to faster destruction of transfused red blood cells. Increased marrow activity causes thickening of cranial bones. Involvement of long bones is also seen, which can cause pathological fractures and growth impairment. There is iron deposition in various organs, which can lead to heart failure or hepatic failure (leading to cirrhosis). Thalassaemias are suspected in presence of family history, or signs suggesting microcytic haemolytic anaemia. Further test and quantitative haemoglobin studies are useful. In beta-thalassaemia, there is an increase in serum bilirubin, iron and ferritin levels. There is severe anaemia, often with haemoglobin < 6 g/dl. There is an elevated red blood cell count, which are microcytic. Peripheral blood smear is diagnostic with nucleated erythroblasts, target cells, small pale red blood cells, and punctate basophilia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 46
Correct
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The gastrosplenic ligament also known as the gastrolienal ligament is the structure that connects the greater curvature of the stomach to the hilum of the spleen. Which of the following arteries would most likely be injured if a surgeon accidentally tore this ligament?
Your Answer: Short gastric
Explanation:The short gastric arteries arise from the end of the splenic arteries and form five to seven branches. The short gastric arteries inside the gastrosplenic ligament from the left to the right, supply the greater curvature of the stomach. The hepatic artery proper runs inside the hepatoduodenal ligament. The right gastric artery and the left gastric artery are contained in the hepatogastric ligament. The caudal pancreatic artery branches off from the splenic artery and supplies the tail of the pancreas. The middle colic artery supplies the transverse colon. The splenic artery does not travel in the gastrosplenic ligament and so it would not be damaged by a tear to this ligament.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 47
Correct
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A 55-year-old woman died 3 years after a cardiac transplant due to worsening congestive heart failure. Autopsy revealed diffuse hyperplasia of the vascular intima involving the entire length of the coronary arteries. The most probable cause of deterioration of the cardiac function is:
Your Answer: Coronary atherosclerosis
Explanation:Allograft coronary artery disease (CAD) can begin right after the transplant and is the major cause of later death in cardiac transplant recipients. This form of atherosclerosis progresses quickly resulting in allograft failure. Due to lack of premonitory symptoms CAD may lead to sudden death.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 48
Incorrect
-
A 35-year-old woman in her 37th week of pregnancy complains of urinary incontinence. She is most likely to have:
Your Answer: Mixed incontinence
Correct Answer: Stress incontinence
Explanation:Urinary incontinence is the involuntary excretion of urine from one’s body. It is often temporary and it almost always results from an underlying medical condition. Several types include:
– Stress incontinence is the voiding of urine following increased abdominal pressure e.g. laughing, coughing, pregnancy etc. It is the most common form of incontinence in women, most commonly due to pelvic floor muscle weakness, physical changes from pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. In men it is a common problem following a prostatectomy. Most lab results such as urine analysis, cystometry and postvoid residual volume are normal.
– Urge incontinence is involuntary loss of urine occurring for no apparent reason while suddenly feeling the need or urge to urinate. The most common cause of urge incontinence are involuntary and inappropriate detrusor muscle contractions.
– Functional incontinence – occurs when a person does not recognise the need to go to the toilet, recognise where the toilet is or get to the toilet in time. The urine loss may be large. Causes of functional incontinence include confusion, dementia, poor eyesight, poor mobility, poor dexterity or unwillingness. t
– Overflow incontinence – sometimes people find that they cannot stop their bladders from constantly dribbling or continuing to dribble for some time after they have passed urine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 49
Correct
-
Which of the following toxins most likely results in continuous cAMP production, which pumps H2O, sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate into the lumen of the small intestine and results in rapid dehydration?
Your Answer: Cholera toxin
Explanation:The cholera toxin (CTX or CT) is an oligomeric complex made up of six protein subunits: a single copy of the A subunit (part A), and five copies of the B subunit (part B), connected by a disulphide bond. The five B subunits form a five-membered ring that binds to GM1 gangliosides on the surface of the intestinal epithelium cells. The A1 portion of the A subunit is an enzyme that ADP-ribosylates G proteins, while the A2 chain fits into the central pore of the B subunit ring. Upon binding, the complex is taken into the cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Once inside the cell, the disulphide bond is reduced, and the A1 subunit is freed to bind with a human partner protein called ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6). Binding exposes its active site, allowing it to permanently ribosylate the Gs alpha subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein. This results in constitutive cAMP production, which in turn leads to secretion of H2O, Na+, K+, Cl−, and HCO3− into the lumen of the small intestine and rapid dehydration. The gene encoding the cholera toxin was introduced into V. cholerae by horizontal gene transfer.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 50
Correct
-
The basilar artery arises from the confluence of which two arteries?
Your Answer: Vertebral
Explanation:The basilar artery is part of the vertebrobasilar system. It is formed by the confluence of the two vertebral arteries which arise from the subclavian arteries. These two vertebral arteries merge at the level of cranial nerve VI at the junction between the pons and the medulla oblangata to form what is know as the basilar artery. This vertebrobasilar system supplies the upper spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior part of brain.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 51
Correct
-
A neurotransmitter of the nigrostriatal pathway is:
Your Answer: Dopamine
Explanation:Dopamine acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, activating dopamine receptors. It is also a neurohormone released from the hypothalamus. It plays an important role in the reward system. It is believed that dopamine provides a teaching signal to parts of the brain responsible for acquiring new motor sequences (behaviours), by activation of dopamine neurons when an unexpected reward is presented. Loss of dopamine neurones in the nigrostriatal pathway causes Parkinson’s disease. In the frontal lobes, dopamine controls the flow of information from other areas of the brain, and thus, dopamine disorders in this region can cause a decline in neurocognitive functions, especially memory, attention and problem solving. Reduced dopamine concentrations in the prefrontal cortex are thought to contribute to attention-deficit disorder and some symptoms of schizophrenia. Dopamine is also the primary neuroendocrine regulator of the secretion of prolactin from the anterior pituitary gland. Dopamine is also commonly associated with the pleasure system of the brain. This plays a key role in understanding the mechanism of action of drugs (such as cocaine and the amphetamines), which seem to be directly or indirectly related to the increase of dopamine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 52
Correct
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A 40-year old lady with a flail chest due to trauma was breathing with the help of a mechanical ventilator in the ICU, and was heavily sedated on muscle relaxants. Due to sudden power failure, a nurse began to hand-ventilate the patient with a Ambu bag. What change will occur in the following parameters: (Arterial p(CO2), pH) in the intervening period between power failure and hand ventilation?
Your Answer: Increase, Decrease
Explanation:Respiratory acidosis occurs due to alveolar hypoventilation which leads to increased arterial carbon dioxide concentration (p(CO2)). This in turn decreases the HCO3 –/p(CO2) and decreases pH. Respiratory acidosis can be acute or chronic. In acute respiratory acidosis, the p(CO2) is raised above the upper limit of normal (over 45 mm Hg) with low pH. However, in chronic cases, the raised p(CO2) is accompanied with a normal or near-normal pH due to renal compensation and an increased serum bicarbonate (HCO3 – > 30 mmHg). The given problem represents acute respiratory acidosis and thus, will show a increase in arterial p(CO2) and decrease in pH.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 53
Incorrect
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Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is likely to be affected by a lesion in the:
Your Answer: Motor cortex
Correct Answer: Pons
Explanation:Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is also known as paradoxical sleep, as the summed activity of the brain’s neurons is quite similar to that during waking hours. Characterised by rapid movements of the eyes, most of the vividly recalled dreams occur during this stage of sleep. The total time of REM sleep for an adult is about 90–120 min per night.
Certain neurones in the brainstem, known as REM sleep-on cells, which are located in the pontine tegmentum, are particularly active during REM sleep and are probably responsible for its occurrence. The eye movements associated with REM are generated by the pontine nucleus with projections to the superior colliculus and are associated with PGO (pons, geniculate, occipital) waves.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 54
Incorrect
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A 13-year-old boy's mother notices he has a lump in his arm, near his right shoulder. An X-ray reveals a lateral projection in the metaphyseal region of his humerus. The lesion is removed and it is found to be composed of bony cortex, capped by cartilage. What's the most likely diagnosis in this case?
Your Answer: Osteoid osteoma
Correct Answer: Osteochondroma
Explanation:Osteochondromas, or osteocartilaginous exostoses, are the most common benign bone tumours, and tend to appear near the ends of long bones. The overgrowth can occur in any bone where cartilage forms bone, and they are capped by cartilage. They are most common in people between the ages of 10-20 years old.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 55
Correct
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A 43-year-old diabetic man complains of headaches, palpitations, anxiety, abdominal pain and weakness. He is administered sodium bicarbonate used to treat:
Your Answer: Metabolic acidosis
Explanation:Sodium bicarbonate is indicated in the management of metabolic acidosis, which may occur in severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, circulatory insufficiency due to shock or severe dehydration, extracorporeal circulation of blood, cardiac arrest and severe primary lactic acidosis. Bicarbonate is given at 50-100 mmol at a time under scrupulous monitoring of the arterial blood gas readings. This intervention, however, has some serious complications including lactic acidosis, and in those cases, should be used with great care.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 56
Incorrect
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If your EEG shows waves with a frequency range of 8-12 Hz, the waves most likely to be seen are:
Your Answer: Gamma
Correct Answer: Alpha
Explanation:Electroencephalography (EEG) is the neurophysiological measurement of the electrical activity of the brain. It is done by placing electrodes on the scalp or subdurally. In reality, the electrical currents are not measured, but rather the voltage differences between different parts of the brain. Four major types of EEG activity are recognized, which are alpha, beta, delta and theta.
Alpha waves, also known as Berger’s waves ranges in frequency from 8-12 Hz. Best detected with eyes closed, alpha waves are characteristic of a relaxed, alert state of consciousness. An alpha-like normal variant called mu is sometimes seen over the motor cortex (central scalp) and attenuates with movement or, rather, with the intention to move.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 57
Correct
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Question 58
Correct
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A 68-year-old woman complains of headaches, dizziness, and memory loss. About a month ago, she fell from a staircase but only suffered mild head trauma. What is the most likely diagnosis in this case?
Your Answer: Chronic subdural haematoma
Explanation:A quarter to a half of patients with chronic subdural haematoma have no identifiable history of head trauma. If a patient does have a history of head trauma, it usually is mild. The average time between head trauma and chronic subdural haematoma diagnosis is 4–5 weeks. Symptoms include decreased level of consciousness, balance problems, cognitive dysfunction and memory loss, motor deficit (e.g. hemiparesis), headache or aphasia. Some patients present acutely. They usually result from tears in bridging veins which cross the subdural space, and may cause an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 59
Incorrect
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The superior ulnar collateral artery is a direct branch of this artery:
Your Answer: Profunda brachii
Correct Answer: Brachial
Explanation:The brachial artery gives rise to a small branch at the middle of the arm, which is the superior collateral artery. It descends accompanied by the ulnar nerve and anastomoses with the posterior ulnar recurrent and inferior ulnar collateral.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 60
Incorrect
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Under normal conditions, what is the major source of energy of cardiac muscles?
Your Answer: Glucose
Correct Answer: Fatty acids
Explanation:Under basal conditions, most of the energy needed by cardiac muscle for metabolism is derived from fats (60%), 35% by carbohydrates, and 5% by ketones and amino acids. However, after intake of large amounts of glucose, lactate and pyruvate are mainly used. During prolonged starvation, fat acts as the primary source. 50% of the used lipids are sourced from circulating fatty acids.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 61
Incorrect
-
Tumours derived from all three germ-cell layers in new-borns usually occur in which of the following sites?
Your Answer: Testis
Correct Answer: Sacrococcygeal area
Explanation:A teratoma is a tumour with tissue or organ components resembling normal derivatives of more than one germ layer. It is derived from all three cell layers. The most common location of teratoma in new-born infants is in the sacrococcygeal area.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 62
Correct
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Perforin are present in the granules of which cell?
Your Answer: Natural killer cell
Explanation:Perforins are characteristically found In the granules of CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells. They are cytolytic proteins that insert into the target plasma membrane forming a hole and resulting in lysis. They along with granzyme B induce apoptosis in the target cell.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 63
Incorrect
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What is the percentage of bone calcium that is freely exchangeable with the extracellular fluid that is available for buffering changes in the calcium ion balance?
Your Answer: 15%
Correct Answer: 1%
Explanation:Around 1% of calcium in the body is available for buffering changes in calcium ion balance. These are mainly derived from the bone that are freely exchangeable with extracellular fluid.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 64
Correct
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A 50 year old man was admitted to the surgical ICU following a hemicolectomy for carcinoma of the caecum. A full blood count revealed: haematocrit = 30%, erythrocytes = 4 × 106/μ, haemoglobin level = 8 g/dl. To determine the likely cause of his anaemia, red blood cell indices were calculated. Which RBC indices are correct?
Your Answer: MCHC = haemoglobin concentration/haematocrit
Explanation:Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is calculated simply by dividing the haemoglobin concentration (8 g/dl) by the haematocrit (0.3). The normal range is 31–36 g/dl. This patient has a hypochromic anaemia (MCHC = 8/0.3 = 26.7 g/dl). Dividing the haemoglobin concentration × 10 by erythrocyte number yields mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH). Normal range is 25.4–34.6 pg/cell and this patient has a significantly reduced cellular haemoglobin content (MCH = 8 × 10/4 = 20 pg/cell). Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is calculated by dividing haematocrit × 1000 by erythrocyte number (4 × 106/μl). Normal range is 80–100 fl and this patient has a microcytic anaemia (MCV = 0.3 × 1000/4 = 75 fl). Microcytic, hypochromic anaemia is characteristic for iron-deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 65
Correct
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A 15-day old baby was brought to the emergency department with constipation for 4 days. On examination, the abdomen of the baby was found to be distended and tender all over. No bowel sounds were heard. A sigmoid colon biopsy was carried out, which showed absent ganglion cells. What is the diagnosis?
Your Answer: Hirschsprung’s disease
Explanation:Hirschsprung’s disease is characterized by congenital absence of the autonomic plexus (Meissner’s and Auerbach’s plexus) in the intestinal wall. Usually limited to the distal colon, it can occasionally involve the entire colon or even the small bowel. There is abnormal or absent peristalsis in the affected segment, resulting in continuous spasm of smooth muscle and partial/complete obstruction. This causes accumulation of intestinal contents and dilatation of proximal segment. Skip lesions are highly uncommon. This disease is seen early in life with 15% patients presenting in first month, 60% by 1 year of age and 85% by the age of 4 years. Symptoms include severe and complete constipation, abdominal distension and vomiting. Patients with involvement of ultra-short segments might have mild constipation with intervening diarrhoea. In older children, symptoms include failure to thrive, anorexia, and lack of an urge to defecate. On examination, an empty rectum is revealed with stool palpable high up in the colon. If not diagnosed in time, it can lead to Hirschsprung’s enterocolitis (toxic megacolon), which can be fulminant and lead to death. Diagnosis involves a barium enema or a rectal suction biopsy. Barium enema shows a transition in diameter between the dilated, normal colon proximal to the narrowed, affected distal segment. It is to be noted that barium enema should be done without prior preparation, which can dilate the abnormal segment, leading to a false-negative result. A 24-hour post-evacuation film can be obtained in the neonatal period – if the colon is still filled with barium, there is a high likelihood of Hirschsprung’s disease. Full-thickness rectal biopsy is diagnostic by showing the absence of ganglion cells. Acetylcholinesterase staining can be done to highlight the enlarged nerve trunks. Abnormal innervation can also be demonstrated by rectal manometry.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 66
Correct
-
The middle meningeal artery is the largest among the arteries that supplies that dura mater of the brain. The middle meningeal artery is a branch of the?
Your Answer: Maxillary artery
Explanation:The middle meningeal artery is the largest of the three (paired) arteries that supply the meninges.
The middle meningeal artery is a large arterial branch of the maxillary artery which is a terminal branch of the external carotid artery. Upon originating, the middle meningeal artery passes through the foramen spinosum. In the skull, it courses in the middle cranial fossa where it provides several branches.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 67
Correct
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A patient presented with continuous bleeding several hours after dental extraction. Which of the following findings is most often associated with clinical bleeding?
Your Answer: Factor IX deficiency
Explanation:Factor IX deficiency, also called Haemophilia B or Christmas disease, is a disorder caused by missing or defective clotting factor IX. Deficiency of the factor IX causes irregular bleeding that can happen spontaneously or after mild trauma, surgery and dental extractions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 68
Correct
-
Staphylococcus aureus can be identified in the laboratory based on the clotting of plasma. Which microbial product is responsible for this activity?
Your Answer: Coagulase
Explanation:Staphylococcus aureus is the most pathogenic species and is implicated in a variety of infections. S. aureus can be identified due to its production of coagulase. The staphylococcal enzyme coagulase will cause inoculated citrated rabbit plasma to gel or coagulate. The coagulase converts soluble fibrinogen in the plasma into insoluble fibrin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 69
Correct
-
A surgical registrar performing an adrenalectomy procedure on the left suprarenal gland of a 25 - year old male patient, accidentally jabbed and injured a vital structure that lies anterior to the left suprarenal organ. Which of the following was the structure most likely injured?
Your Answer: Pancreas
Explanation:The adrenal (suprarenal) glands are organs of the endocrine system located on top of each of the kidneys. The left suprarenal gland, in question, is crescent in shape and slightly larger than the right suprarenal gland. It is posteriorly located to the lateral aspect of the head of the pancreas which is thus the most likely to be injured. The other organs like the duodenum, liver and the inferior vena cava are related to the right suprarenal gland. The spleen and the colon are not in close proximity with the left suprarenal gland and are not likely to be the organs injured.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 70
Incorrect
-
From which branchial (pharyngeal) pouch does the inferior parathyroid gland arise?
Your Answer: 4th
Correct Answer: 3rd
Explanation:The following structures arise from each branchial pouch:
1st pouch – eustachian tube, middle ear, mastoid, and inner layer of the tympanic membrane
2nd pouch – middle ear, palatine tonsils
3rd pouch – inferior parathyroid glands, thymus
4th pouch – superior parathyroid glands, ultimobranchial body which forms the parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid gland, musculature and cartilage of larynx (along with the sixth pharyngeal pouch)
5th pouch – rudimentary structure
6th pouch – along with the fourth pouch, contributes to the formation of the musculature and cartilage of the larynx.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Endocrine; Embryology
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Question 71
Correct
-
A glycogen storage disorder is characterised by increased liver glycogen with a normal structure and no increase in serum glucose after oral intake of a protein-rich diet. Deficiency of which of the following enzymes is responsible for this disorder?
Your Answer: Glucose-6-phosphatase
Explanation:The most common glycogen storage disorder is von Gierke’s disease or glycogen storage disease type I. It results from a deficiency of enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase which affects the ability of liver to produce free glucose from glycogen and gluconeogenesis; leading to severe hypoglycaemia. There is also increased glycogen storage in the liver and kidneys causing enlargement and various problems in their functioning. The disease also causes lactic acidosis and hyperlipidaemia. The main treatment includes frequent or continuous feedings of corn-starch or other carbohydrates.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 72
Incorrect
-
A 34-year-old man is receiving chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Which of the following chemotherapy regimens would be used in this case?
Your Answer: ABVD
Correct Answer: CHOP
Explanation:CHOP is the acronym for a chemotherapy regimen used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, comprising cyclophosphamide, hydroxyrubicin (adriamycin), vincristine and prednisone. This regimen can also be combined with the monoclonal antibody rituximab if the lymphoma is of B cell origin; this combination is called R-CHOP.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 73
Incorrect
-
Which of the following organelles have the capacity to regenerate and spontaneously replicate?
Your Answer: Rough endoplasmic reticulum
Correct Answer: Mitochondrion
Explanation:A mitochondria is a membrane bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells. They are called the powerhouse of the cell and are the place where ATP is formed from energy generated through metabolism. They are capable of replication as well as repair and regeneration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 74
Incorrect
-
The line which divides the perineum into two triangles is connected to the?
Your Answer: Pubic tubercles
Correct Answer: Ischial tuberosities
Explanation:The perineum has it’s deep boundaries in front of the pubic arch and the arcuate ligament of the pubis, behind the tip of the coccyx and on either side of the inferior rami of the pubis and ischium and the sacrotuberous ligament. It also corresponds to the outlet of the pelvis. A line drawn transversely across, in front of the ischial tuberosities divides the space into two portions, the posterior contains the termination of the anal canal and the anterior, contains the external urogenital organs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Pelvis
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Question 75
Correct
-
A 30 year-old male patient sustained a sharp blow to the right side of the head, over the temporal region during a vehicular accident. This resulted to the rupture of the principal artery that supplies the meninges. Which artery is affected?
Your Answer: Middle meningeal artery
Explanation:The middle meningeal artery is typically the third branch of the first part of the maxillary artery, one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery. After branching off the maxillary artery in the infratemporal fossa, it runs through the foramen spinosum to supply the dura mater and the calvaria. The middle meningeal artery is the largest of the three (paired) arteries that supply the meninges, the others being the anterior meningeal artery and the posterior meningeal artery. The anterior branch of the middle meningeal artery runs beneath the pterion. It is vulnerable to injury at this point, where the skull is thin. Rupture of the artery may give rise to an epidural hematoma .An injured middle meningeal artery is the most common cause of an epidural hematoma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 76
Correct
-
Which of the following is the most likely cause of massive splenomegaly in a 35-year old gentleman?
Your Answer: Myelofibrosis
Explanation:Causes of massive splenomegaly include chronic myelogenous leukaemia, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, lymphoma, hairy cell leukaemia, myelofibrosis, polycythaemia vera, sarcoidosis, Gaucher’s disease and malaria.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 77
Correct
-
A 27-yeaar-old woman is diagnosed with candidiasis and prescribed fluconazole. What is the mechanism of action of fluconazole?
Your Answer: Inhibits cytochrome P450
Explanation:Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal drug used in the treatment and prevention of superficial and systemic fungal infections. Like other imidazole- and triazole-class antifungals, fluconazole inhibits the fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme, 14-demethylase. It is used to treat candidiasis, blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, dermatophytosis, and pityriasis versicolor.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 78
Correct
-
Which tumour site is more commonly involved in adults than in children?
Your Answer: Lung
Explanation:In adults, the most common primary site of tumour is in the lungs, compared to children wherein the most common primary site is the blood.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 79
Incorrect
-
What is the most likely condition a new born infant is likely to suffer from, if he/she was born with incomplete fusion of the embryonic endocardial cushions?
Your Answer: Tetralogy of Fallot
Correct Answer: An atrioventricular septal defect
Explanation:The endocardial cushions in the heart are the mesenchymal tissue that make up the part of the atrioventricular valves, atrial septum and ventricular septum. An incomplete fusion of these mesenchymal cells can cause an atrioventricular septal defect. The terms endocardial cushion defect, atrioventricular septal defect and common atrioventricular canal defect can be used interchangeably with one another.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Embryology
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Question 80
Correct
-
A 6 year-old boy is brought to you coughing. He is suspected to have aspirated a Lego piece which he was seen playing with. Where would you expect the piece to be?
Your Answer: Right main bronchus
Explanation:Inhaled objects are more likely to enter the right lung for several reasons. First the right bronchus is shorter, wider and more vertical than the left bronchus. Also, the carina (a ridge-like structure at the point of tracheal bifurcation) is set a little towards the left. The terminal bronchiole is a very small space and impossible for the seed to lodge here.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 81
Incorrect
-
A 27 year old women had developed a darker complexion following a vacation to India. She had no erythema or tenderness. Her skin colour returned to normal over a period of 1 month. Which of the these substances is related to the biochemical change mentioned above?
Your Answer: Lipofuscin
Correct Answer: Tyrosine
Explanation:The tanning process can occur due to UV light exposure as a result of oxidation of tyrosine to dihydrophenylalanine with the help of the tyrosinase enzyme within the melanocytes. Hemosiderin can impart a brown colour due to breakdown of RBC but its usually due to a trauma and is known as haemochromatosis.
Lipofuscin gives a golden brown colour to the cell granules not the skin.
Homogentisic acid is part of a rare disease alkaptonuria, with characteristic black pigment deposition within the connective tissue.
Copper can impart a brown golden colour, but is not related to UV light exposure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 82
Correct
-
After having donated a unit of blood. The blood bank will prefer to use which of the following anticoagulants to store the blood?
Your Answer: Citrate
Explanation:Calcium is necessary for coagulation to occur. Citrate being a chelator and combining with calcium ions to form un-ionised compound will prevent coagulation. Following transfusion the citrate is removed by the liver with in a few minutes. Oxalate also works on the same principle but it is toxic to the body.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 83
Incorrect
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A CT scan of 65 year old male patient at an outpatient clinic suggested a bone tumour at the stylomastoid foramen. Which of the following cranial nerves is likely to be affected with this tumour?
Your Answer: X
Correct Answer: VII
Explanation:Cranial nerve VII, the facial nerve, is found in the internal acoustic canal and runs through this canal into the facial canal before exiting through the stylomastoid foramen. In the case of a bone tumour at the stylomastoid process, the facial nerve is the nerve that will most likely be affected.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 84
Incorrect
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The anatomical dead space in a patient with low oxygen saturation, is 125 ml, with a tidal volume of 500 ml and pa(CO2) of 40 mm Hg. The dead space was determined by Fowler's method. If we assume that the patient's lungs are healthy, what will his mixed expired CO2 tension [pE(CO2)] be?
Your Answer: 10 mmHg
Correct Answer: 30 mmHg
Explanation:According to Bohr’s equation, VD/VT = (pA(CO2) − pE(CO2))/pA(CO2), where pE(CO2) is mixed expired CO2 and pA(CO2) is alveolar CO2pressure. Normally, the pa(CO2) is virtually identical to pA(CO2). Thus, VD/VT = (pa(CO2)) − pE(CO2)/pa(CO2). By Fowler’s method, VD/VT= 0.25. In the given problem, (pa(CO2) − pE(CO2)/pa(CO2) = (40 − pE(CO2)/40 = 0.25. Thus, pE(CO2) = 30 mmHg. If there is a great perfusion/ventilation inequality, pE(CO2) could be significantly lower than 30 mm Hg, and the patient’s physiological dead space would exceed the anatomical dead space.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 85
Correct
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A 69 Year old lady presented to the emergency department following a massive myocardial infarction. She was found to be in hypotensive shock with focal neurological signs. Unfortunately the patient demised. What would be the expected findings on the brain biopsy?
Your Answer: Liquefactive necrosis
Explanation:Liquefactive necrosis is often associated with bacterial or fungal infections. However, hypoxic death of cells within the central nervous system can also result in liquefactive necrosis. The focal area is soft with a liquefied centre containing necrotic debris and dead white cells. This may later be enclosed by a cystic wall
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 86
Incorrect
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Which of the following bones was most likely fractured following an injury in the medial side of the foot between the navicular behind and base of the first metatarsal in front?
Your Answer: Talus
Correct Answer: First cuneiform
Explanation:The first cuneiform bone is the largest of the three cuneiforms. It is situated at the medial side of the foot, between the navicular behind and the base of the first metatarsal in front.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 87
Incorrect
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Gram positive bacteria differ from gram negative bacteria due to the presence of which of the following structures?
Your Answer: Cell wall
Correct Answer: Outer membrane
Explanation:The reason bacteria are either Gram-positive or Gram-negative is due to the structure of their cell envelope (the cell envelope is defined as the cell membrane and cell wall plus an outer membrane, if one is present.) Gram-positive bacteria, for example, retain the crystal violet due to the amount of peptidoglycan in the cell wall. It can be said therefore that the Gram-stain procedure separates bacteria into two broad categories based on structural differences in the cell envelope.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 88
Correct
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Following a posterolateral thoracotomy, a surgeon may wish to infiltrate local anaesthetic above and below the incision to block the nerves supplying the thoracic wall. This wall is innervated by?
Your Answer: Intercostal nerves
Explanation:Intercostal nerves are the ventral primary rami of spinal nerves T1–T11. They give branches which supply the thoracic wall.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 89
Correct
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A blood sample of a 58 year old male patient, who underwent an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, was sent to the laboratory. The laboratory technician said that the patient’s blood agglutinates with antisera anti-A and anti-D, while the patient’s serum agglutinates cells of blood group B. What is the blood group of this patient?
Your Answer: A positive
Explanation:Group A – has only the A antigen on red cells (and B antibody in the plasma)
Group B – has only the B antigen on red cells (and A antibody in the plasma)
Group AB – has both A and B antigens on red cells (but neither A nor B antibody in the plasma)
Group O – has neither A nor B antigens on red cells (but both A and B antibody are in the plasma). Many people also have a so-called Rh factor on the red blood cell’s surface. This is also an antigen and those who have it are called Rh+. A person with Rh– blood does not have Rh antibodies naturally in the blood plasma (as one can have A or B antibodies, for instance) but they can develop Rh antibodies in the blood plasma if they receive blood from a person with Rh+ blood, whose Rh antigens can trigger the production of Rh antibodies. A person with Rh+ blood can receive blood from a person with Rh– blood without any problems. In this scenario the person has blood group A+ as he has A antigen, anti B antibody and Rh antigen
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 90
Incorrect
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Which of the following is NOT a nutritional factor involved in wound healing:
Your Answer: Vitamin A
Correct Answer: Vitamin B3
Explanation:Vitamin B6 is required for collagen cross-links.
Vitamin A is required for epithelial cell proliferation.
Zinc is required for RNA and DNA synthesis.
Copper is required for cross-linking of collagen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Physiology
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Question 91
Correct
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Which of the following is true regarding factor XI?
Your Answer: Deficiency causes haemophilia C
Explanation:Factor XI is also known as plasma thromboplastin and is one of the enzymes of the coagulation cascade. It is produced in the liver and is a serine protease. It is activated by factor XIIa, thrombin and by itself. Deficiency of factor XI causes the rare type of haemophilia C. Low levels of factor XI also occur in other disease states, including Noonan syndrome. High levels of factor XI have been seen in thrombosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 92
Correct
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A surgeon trainee is assisting in an operation to ligate the ductus arteriosus. The consultant supervising explains that caution is required when placing a clamp on the ductus to avoid injury to an important structure immediately dorsal to it. To which structure is the consultant referring?
Your Answer: Left recurrent laryngeal nerve
Explanation:The left recurrent laryngeal nerve branches off the vagus and wraps around the aorta, posterior to the ductus arteriosus/ligamentum arteriosum from whence it courses superiorly to innervate the laryngeal muscles.
Accessory Hemiazygous vein is on the left side of the body draining the posterolateral chest wall and emptying blood into the azygos vein.
The left internal thoracic artery is branch of the left subclavian artery supplying blood to the anterior wall of the thorax.
Left phrenic nerve is lateral to the vagus nerve.
Thoracic duct: is behind the oesophagus, coursing between the aorta and the azygos vein in the posterior chest.
Right recurrent laryngeal nerve: loops around the right subclavian artery and is not in danger in this procedure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 93
Correct
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The extent of cancer growth can be described through staging. What is taken into consideration when staging a cancer?
Your Answer: Local invasion
Explanation:Cancer stage is based on four characteristics: the size of cancer, whether the cancer is invasive or non-invasive, whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, in this case beyond the breast. Staging is important as it is often a good predictor of outcomes and treatment is adjusted accordingly.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 94
Correct
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When exposing the right saphenofemoral junction for flush-ligation of the saphenous vein, which of the following is the most likely to be seen passing through this opening?
Your Answer: Superficial external pudendal artery
Explanation:The saphenous opening is an oval opening in the fascia lata. It is covered by the cribriform fascia and It is so called because it is perforated by the great saphenous vein and by numerous blood and lymphatic vessels and the superficial external pudendal artery pierces it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 95
Correct
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a medical condition that occurs in critically ill patients, and can be triggered by events such as trauma and sepsis. Which of the following variables is most likely to be lower than normal in a patient with ARDS?
Your Answer: Lung compliance
Explanation:Acute (or Adult) respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a medical condition occurring in critically ill patients characterized by widespread inflammation in the lungs. The development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) starts with damage to the alveolar epithelium and vascular endothelium, resulting in increased permeability to plasma and inflammatory cells. These cells pass into the interstitium and alveolar space, resulting in pulmonary oedema. Damage to the surfactant-producing type II cells and the presence of protein-rich fluid in the alveolar space disrupt the production and function of pulmonary surfactant, leading to micro atelectasis and impaired gas exchange. The pathophysiological consequences of lung oedema in ARDS include a decrease in lung volumes, compliance and large intrapulmonary shunts. ARDS may be seen in the setting of pneumonia, sepsis, following trauma, multiple blood transfusions, severe burns, severe pancreatitis, near-drowning, drug reactions, or inhalation injuries.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 96
Correct
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What's the nodal stage of a testicular seminoma if several lymph nodes between 2cm and 5cm are found?
Your Answer: N2
Explanation:According to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 2002 guidelines, the nodal staging of testicular seminoma is the following:
N0: no regional lymph node metastases
N1: metastasis with lymph nodes 2 cm or less in their greatest dimension or multiple lymph nodes, none more than 2 cm
N2: metastasis with lymph nodes greater than 2 cm but not greater than 5 cm in their greatest dimension, or multiple lymph nodes, any one mass greater than 2 cm, but not more than 5 cm
N3: metastasis with lymph nodes greater than 5 cm in their greatest dimension.
The patient in this case has N2 testicular seminoma. This TNM staging is extremely important because treatment options are decided depending on this classification.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 97
Correct
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A 40-year old woman presents with tightening of the skin over her fingers which makes movement of her fingers difficult.. She also gives a history of her fingers turning blue on exposure to low temperatures. She admits to gradual weight loss. Investigations reveal negative rheumatoid factor, negative antinuclear antibody and a positive anticentromere body. Which of the following conditions is she likely to have?
Your Answer: Oesophageal stricture
Explanation:Scleroderma is a connective tissue disorder that ranges in severity and progression. The disease could show generalised skin thickening with rapid, fatal, visceral involvement; or only cutaneous involvement (typically fingers and face). The slow progressive form is also known as ‘limited cutaneous scleroderma’ or CREST syndrome (calcinosis cutis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, (o)oesophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 98
Correct
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The passage of leukocytes through the wall of the blood vessels is best described by which of the following terms?
Your Answer: Diapedesis
Explanation:The steps involved in leukocyte arrival and function are:
1. margination: cells migrate from the centre to the periphery of the vessel
2. rolling: selectins are upregulated on the vessel walls
3. adhesion: upregulation of the adhesion molecules ICAM and VCAM on the endothelium interact with integrins on the leukocytes, interaction of these results in adhesion
4. diapedesis and chemotaxis: diapedesis is the transmigration of the leukocyte across the endothelium of the capillary and towards a chemotactic product
5. phagocytosis: engulfing the offending substance/cell.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 99
Correct
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A 26-year-old female patient had the following blood report: RBC count = 4. 0 × 106/μl, haematocrit = 27% and haemoglobin = 11 g/dl, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) = 80–100 fl, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) = 31–37 g/dl. Which of the following is correct regarding this patient’s erythrocytes:
Your Answer: Normal MCV
Explanation:MCV is the mean corpuscular volume and it is calculated from the haematocrit and the RBC count. It is normally 90 fl. Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) [g/dl] = haemoglobin [g/dl]/haematocrit = 11/0.27 = 41 g/dl and is higher than normal range (32 to 36 g/dL).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 100
Correct
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What is the 5-year survival rate of carcinoma of the pancreas?
Your Answer: 30 per cent
Explanation:Pancreatic cancer typically has a poor prognosis, partly because the cancer usually initially remains symptomless, leading to locally advanced or metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. Median survival from diagnosis is around 3–6 months. Even in those suitable for resectional surgery, 5-year survival rates are still only 30 per cent.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
