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Question 1
Correct
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A 77-year-old woman's renal function is tested. The following results were obtained during a 24-h period:
Urine flow rate: 2. 0 ml/min
Urine inulin: 0.5 mg/ml
Plasma inulin: 0.02 mg/ml
Urine urea: 220 mmol/l
Plasma urea: 5 mmol/l.
What is the urea clearance?Your Answer: 88 ml/min
Explanation:Urea is reabsorbed in the inner medullary collecting ducts of the nephrons. The clearance (C) of any substance can be calculated as follows: C = (U × V)/P, where U and P are the urine and plasma concentrations of the substance, respectively and V is the urine flow rate. So, glomerular filtration rate = (0.220 × 2. 0)/0.005 = 88 ml/min.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 2
Incorrect
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Which of the following is responsible for the maximum increase in total peripheral resistance on sympathetic stimulation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Arterioles
Explanation:Arterioles are also known as the resistance vessels as they are responsible for approximately half the resistance of the entire systemic circulation. They are richly innervated by the autonomic nervous system and hence, will bring about the maximum increase in peripheral resistance on sympathetic stimulation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 3
Incorrect
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A 20-year old boy presented with low grade fever, night sweats and weakness over two months. On examination, he had multiple, non-tender, cervical, supraclavicular and axillary adenopathy. Microscopy of lymph node biopsy showed the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. He is likely suffering from:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Explanation:Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a disease characterized by malignant proliferation of cells of the lymphoreticular system. It can be localized or disseminated, and can involve the nodes, spleen, liver and marrow. Symptoms of the disease include non-tender lymphadenopathy, fever, night sweats, weight loss, itching and hepatosplenomegaly. Histologically, the involved nodes show the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, binucleated cells, in a heterogenous cellular infiltrate of histiocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, plasma cells and eosinophils.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 4
Incorrect
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A 65-year-old man complains of headaches, weakness, cramps, and confusion; blood tests reveal he has severe hyponatremia. The most likely cause is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Severe diarrhoea or vomiting
Explanation:Hyponatraemia occurs when the sodium level in the plasma falls below 135 mmol/l. Hyponatraemia is an abnormality that can occur in isolation or, more commonly as a complication of other medical illnesses. Severe hyponatraemia may cause osmotic shift of water from the plasma into the brain cells. Typical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache and malaise. As the hyponatraemia worsens, confusion, diminished reflexes, convulsions, stupor or coma may occur. The cause of hyponatremia is typically classified by a person’s fluid status into low volume, normal volume, and high volume. Low volume hyponatremia can occur from diarrhoea, vomiting, diuretics, and sweating.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 5
Incorrect
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What is the primary function of the Kupffer cells found in the liver?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Recycling of old red blood cells
Explanation:Kupffer cells found in the liver are part of the monocyte-reticular system. They are specialised macrophages and primarily function to recycle old and damaged RBCs. The RBCs are phagocytosed and the haemoglobin is broken down into haem and globin. The haem is further broken down into iron that is recycled and bilirubin that is conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in the bile.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 6
Incorrect
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A 62-year-old man presented with a persistent cough and weight loss. Chest x-ray demonstrated widespread nodular opacities. After a bronchoalveolar lavage, atypical cells were detected. Which is the most probable diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Bronchioalveolar carcinoma
Explanation:Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC) is a term used to define a particular subtype of adenocarcinoma which develops in cells near the alveoli, in the outer regions of the lungs. On a chest X-ray it can appear as a single peripheral spot or as scattered spots throughout the lungs. Symptoms include cough, haemoptysis, chest pain, dyspnoea and loss of weight.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 7
Incorrect
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What is the normal duration of the ST segment?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 0.08 s
Explanation:The ST segment lies between the QRS complex and the T-wave. The normal duration of the ST segment is 0.08 s. ST-segment elevation or depression may indicate myocardial ischaemia or infarction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 8
Incorrect
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Leukotrienes normally function during an asthma attack and work to sustain inflammation. Which of the following enzymes would inhibit their synthesis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 5-lipoxygenase
Explanation:Leukotrienes are produced from arachidonic acid with the help of the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase. This takes place in the eosinophils, mast cells, neutrophils, monocytes and basophils. They are eicosanoid lipid mediators and take part in allergic and asthmatic attacks. They are both autocrine as well as paracrine signalling molecules to regulate the body’s response and include: LTA4, LTB4, LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 and LTF4.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 9
Incorrect
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A 65-year old gentleman presents to the clinic with chronic back pain and weight loss. His blood count shows a white blood cell count of 10 × 109/l, with a differential count of 66 polymorphonuclear leukocytes, 7 bands, 3 metamyelocytes, 3 myelocytes, 14 lymphocytes, 7 monocytes, and 5 nucleated red blood cells. The haemoglobin is 13 g/dl with a haematocrit of 38.1%, a mean corpuscular volume of 82 fl, and a platelet count of 126 × 109/l. What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metastatic carcinoma
Explanation:The peripheral blood findings suggest a leucoerythroblastic picture, the common causes of which in a 65-year old gentleman includes prostatic or lung malignancy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 10
Incorrect
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T lymphocytes that express the MCH type II antigen are most likely to produce which of the following cytokines?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Gamma interferon
Explanation:Interferon gamma is a soluble cytokine previously known as the macrophage activating factor. It is the only member belonging to the type II class of the interferons. It is secreted by a number of cells taking part in the immune reaction including: T-helper cells (CD-4), cells with immunological memory (CD45PA), killer cells (CD8), dendrite cells (CD23,35), natural killer cells (CD16) and B lymphocytes (CD22,CD23). It has both a defending as well as a pathological effect. It induces differentiation in the myeloid cell in the bone marrow. If macrophages are infected by parasites it activates the macrophages to destroy them. IFN-γ strengthens the anti-tumour activities of the cytotoxic lymphocytes. Together with CD4 or CD8 toxins, produced by lymphocytes, it suppresses the growth of the tumour cells. along with these functions it increases the non specific response of the natural killer cells, causing changes in the cell membrane surface to prevent adhesion and penetration of a virus. It can either increase or decrease B cell response and it activates osteoclasts which increases bone resorption.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 11
Incorrect
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Which of the following malignancies is likely to have the best prognosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid
Explanation:Papillary carcinoma accounts for 70-80% of all thyroid cancers and is seen commonly in people aged 30-60 years. It is more aggressive in elderly patients. 10-20% cases may have recurrence or persistent disease. More common in females with a female to male ratio of 3:1. Papillary carcinomas can also contain follicular carcinomas. The common route of spread is through lymphatics to regional nodes in one-third cases and pulmonary metastasis can also occur. Papillary carcinomas of the thyroid have the best prognosis, especially in patients less than 45 years of age with small tumours confined to the thyroid gland.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Pathology
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Question 12
Incorrect
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Abnormal breathing is noticed in a of victim of a road traffic accident, who sustained a head injury. The breathing pattern is characterised by alternate periods of waxing and waning tidal volumes with interspersed periods of apnoea. This breathing pattern is known as:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cheyne–Stokes breathing
Explanation:Cheyne-Stokes breathing is an abnormal breathing pattern with breathing periods of gradually waxing and waning tidal volumes, with apnoeic periods interspersed. It is usually the first breathing pattern to be seen with a rise in intracranial pressure and is caused by failure of the respiratory centre in the brain to compensate quickly enough to changes in serum partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide. The aetiology includes strokes, head injuries, brain tumours and congestive heart failure. It is also a sign of altitude sickness in normal people, a symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning or post-morphine administration. Biot’s respiration (cluster breathing) is characterized by cluster of quick, shallow inspirations followed by regular or irregular periods of apnoea. It is different from ataxic respiration, which has completely irregular breaths and pauses. It results due to damage to the medulla oblongata by any reason (stroke, uncal herniation, trauma) and is a poor prognostic indicator. Kussmaul breathing, also known as ‘air hunger’, is basically respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis and is characterized by quick, deep and laboured breathing. It is most often seen in in diabetic ketoacidosis. Due to forced inspiratory rate, the patients will show a low p(CO2). Ondine’s curse is congenital central hypoventilation syndrome or primary alveolar hypoventilation, which can be fatal and leads to sleep apnoea. It involves an inborn failure to control breathing autonomically during sleep and in severe cases, can affect patients even while awake. It is known to occur in 1 in 200000 liveborn children. Treatment includes tracheostomies and life long mechanical ventilator support.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 13
Incorrect
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Driving pressure is considered to be a strong predictor of mortality in patients with ARDS. What is the normal mean intravascular driving pressure for the respiratory circulation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 10 mmHg
Explanation:Driving pressure is the difference between inflow and outflow pressure. For the pulmonary circulation, this is the difference between pulmonary arterial (pa) and left atrial pressure (pLA). Normally, mean driving pressure is about 10 mmHg, computed by subtracting pLA (5 mmHg) from pA (15 mmHg). This is in contrast to a mean driving pressure of nearly 100 mmHg in the systemic circulation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 14
Incorrect
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Which is the most common benign germ-cell tumour that could occur in a premenopausal woman?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Dermoid cyst
Explanation:A dermoid cyst is a teratoma of a cystic nature that contains an array of developmentally mature and solid tissues. Dermoid cysts grow slowly and this type of cystic teratoma is nearly always benign.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 15
Incorrect
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A 65-year-old female is taking different medications for various medical conditions. Which medication would most likely predispose the patient to develop hyperkalaemia?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Spironolactone
Explanation:The most important potential side effect of spironolactone is hyperkalaemia (high potassium levels), which, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Hyperkalaemia in these patients can present as a non anion-gap metabolic acidosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 16
Incorrect
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If a catheter is placed in the main pulmonary artery of a healthy 30-year-old woman, which of the following will be its mean pulmonary arterial pressure?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 15 mmHg
Explanation:The pulmonary artery pressure (PA pressure) is a measure of the blood pressure found in the main pulmonary artery. The hydrostatic pressure of the pulmonary circulation refers to the actual pressure inside pulmonary vessels relative to atmospheric pressure. Hydrostatic (blood pressure) in the pulmonary vascular bed is low compared with that of similar systemic vessels. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure is about 15 mmHg (ranging from about 13 to 19 mmHg) and is much lower than the average systemic arterial pressure of 90 mmHg.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 17
Incorrect
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Endometrial hyperplasia is most likely to be associated with which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fibrothecoma
Explanation:A benign tumour arising from the ovarian stroma, fibrothecoma are bilateral in 10% cases. The thecoma component of the tumour can produce oestrogen leading to endometrial hyperplasia. The thecoma is rich in lipid content and is responsible for the yellowish appearance of the tumour. Meig’s syndrome is the presence of fibrothecoma with a right-sided hydrothorax.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 18
Incorrect
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Which of the following is NOT a nutritional factor involved in wound healing:
Your Answer:
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 19
Incorrect
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Which of the following morphological characteristic is a salient feature of a pure apoptotic cell?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Chromatin condensation
Explanation:Apoptosis is the programmed death of cells which occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism’s growth or development. The changes which occur in this process include blebbing, cell shrinkage, nuclear fragmentation, chromatin condensation, chromosomal DNA fragmentation, and global mRNA decay. The cell membrane however remains intact and the dead cells are phagocytosed prior to any content leakage and thus inflammatory response.
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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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A 66 year old male, was involved in a MVA. He sustained third degree burns to his abdomen and open bleeding wound to his left leg. The patient complains of dizziness. He is a known hypertensive but during examination was found to be hypotensive. His heart rate is 120/min, with regular rhythm. What is the possible cause of his hypotension?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypovolaemia
Explanation:Hypovolemia can be recognized by tachycardia, diminished blood pressure, and the absence of perfusion as assessed by skin signs (skin turning pale) and/or capillary refill time. The patient may feel dizzy, faint, nauseated, or very thirsty. Common causes of hypovolemia are loss of blood, loss of plasma which occurs in severe burns and lesions discharging fluid, loss of body sodium and consequent intravascular water which may occur in cases of diarrhoea and vomiting. In this case the cause of patients hypotension is due to hypovolemia from both loss of plasma and blood.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 21
Incorrect
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A 26-year-old female sought consultation due to excessive vaginal discharge. Vaginal smear showed numerous bacilli under the microscope. The organism was non-pathogenic. What is the most likely organism:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Lactobacillus species
Explanation:Lactobacillus is a Gram-positive facultative bacteria. It is commonly present in the vagina and the gastrointestinal tract. Colonization of Lactobacillus is usually benign and it makes up a small portion of the gastrointestinal flora.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 22
Incorrect
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A 47-year old-woman diagnosed with pancreatitis presented to the emergency department complaining of a worsening shortness of breath, fever, agitation and cough. Oxygen saturation was 67% in room air. Her respiratory status continued to deteriorate therefore she was intubated. She was admitted to the intensive care unit for management. Chest X-ray demonstrated bilateral perihilar opacities. The patient failed conventional treatment and died several days later. At autopsy, the lung shows growth of type 2 pneumocytes and thickened alveolar walls. What is the most probable diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Adult respiratory distress syndrome
Explanation:Acute (or adult) respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung condition characterised by a non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema that leads to acute respiratory failure. The most common risk factors for ARDS include trauma with direct lung injury, sepsis, pneumonia, pancreatitis, burns, drug overdose, massive blood transfusion and shock. Acute onset of dyspnoea with hypoxemia, anxiety and agitation is typical. Chest X ray most commonly demonstrates bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. Histological changes include the exudative, proliferative and fibrotic phase. ARDS is mainly a clinical diagnosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 23
Incorrect
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As per the Poiseuille-Hagen formula, doubling the diameter of a vessel will change the resistance of the vessel from 16 peripheral resistance units (PRU) to:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 1 PRU
Explanation:Poiseuille-Hagen formula for flow in along narrow tube states that F = (PA– PB) × (Π/8) × (1/η) × (r4/l) where F = flow, PA– PB = pressure difference between the two ends of the tube, η = viscosity, r = radius of tube and L = length of tube. Also, flow is given by pressure difference divided by resistance. Hence, R = 8ηL ÷ Πr4. Hence, the resistance of the vessel changes in inverse proportion to the fourth power of the diameter. So, if the diameter of the vessel is increased to twice the original, it will lead to decrease in resistance to one-sixteenth its initial value.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 24
Incorrect
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Which of the following coagulation factors cross-links fibrin?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Factor XIII
Explanation:Factor XIII, also known as fibrin stabilizing factor, is an enzyme of the coagulation cascade that crosslinks fibrin. Deficiency of FXIII may cause bleeding tendency but paradoxically, it may also predispose to thrombosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 25
Incorrect
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Raised alkaline phosphatase and positive antimitochondrial antibody indicates which of the following conditions presenting with pruritus?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Primary biliary cirrhosis
Explanation:An autoimmune disease, primary biliary cirrhosis results in destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts. This leads to cholestasis, cirrhosis and eventually, hepatic failure. Symptoms includes fatigue, pruritus and steatorrhea. Increased IgM levels, along with antimitochondrial antibodies are seen in the serum. Liver biopsy is diagnostic, and also aids in staging of disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 26
Incorrect
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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:
Correct 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 27
Incorrect
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After a total colectomy and ileotomy, a 50-year old diabetic man who was a known case of diabetic nephropathy had persistent metabolic acidosis. The patient appeared well perfused, with normal vital signs and normal fluid balance. Investigations revealed:
Sodium = 132 mmol/l
Potassium = 6.6 mmol/l
Creatinine = 185 μmol/l (2.16 mg/dl)
Chloride = 109 μmol/l
8am cortisol = 500 nmol/l (18 μg/dl)
pH = 7.29, p(CO2) = 27 mmHg
p(O2) = 107 mmHg
standard bicarbonate = 12 mmol/l.
What is the likely causes of his acidosis?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Renal tubular acidosis
Explanation:Acidosis here is due to low bicarbonate. The low p(CO2) is seen in compensation. The anion gap is normal, ruling out intra-abdominal ischaemia (which leads to metabolic acidosis). If it was a gastrointestinal aetiology, low potassium would be seen. The history of diabetic nephropathy predisposes to renal tubular acidosis. Type 4 (hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism) is associated with high potassium and is found in diabetic and hypertensive renal disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 28
Incorrect
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Fine-needle aspiration is a type of biopsy procedure. When performing a fine-needle aspiration of the lungs, which is the most common complication of the procedure?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pneumothorax
Explanation:Pneumothorax is the most common complication of a fine-needle aspiration procedure. Various factors, such as lesion size, have been associated with increased risk of pneumothorax .
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 29
Incorrect
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Which of the following diseases is caused by intra-articular and/or extra-articular deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals, due to unknown causes?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pseudogout
Explanation:Pseudogout or chondrocalcinosis is a rheumatological disease caused by the accumulation of crystals of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) in the connective tissues. It is frequently associated with other conditions, such as trauma, amyloidosis, gout, hyperparathyroidism and old age, which suggests that it is secondary to degenerative or metabolic changes in the tissues. The knee is the most commonly affected joint. It causes symptoms similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 30
Incorrect
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Calculate the stroke volume in an adult male with the following parameters:
Heart rate 70 beats/min
Arterial [O2] 0.24 ml O2/min
Venous [O2] 0.16 ml O2/mi
Whole body O2 consumption 500 ml/min
Pulmonary diastolic pressure 15 mmHg
Pulmonary systolic pressure 25 mmHg
Wedge pressure 5 mmHg.Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 90 ml
Explanation:Fick’s principle states that, VO2 = (CO × CAO2) – (CO × CVO2) where VO2 = oxygen consumption, CO = cardiac output, CAO2 = oxygen concentration of arterial blood and CVO2 = oxygen concentration of venous blood. Thus, CO = VO2/CAO2– CVO2, CO = 500/0.24–0.16, CO = 500/0.8, CO = 6.25 l/min. Cardiac output is also given by product of stroke volume and heart rate. Thus, stroke volume = cardiac output / heart rate = 6.25/70 × 1000 stroke volume = 90 ml approximately.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 31
Incorrect
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A 56-year old male with history of previous abdominal surgery presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain that is increasing in intensity. This pain is associated with abdominal distension and faint, high-pitched bowel sounds. An old scar is also noted on the abdomen. An erect abdominal X-ray shows multiple air-fluid levels in dilated bowel loops. No occult blood was found in stool sample. What is the most likely predisposing factor for his present condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Adhesions from previous surgery
Explanation:The described features suggest acute bowel obstruction. The scar described points toward previous surgery, which suggests development of peritoneal adhesions that could lead to obstruction. Hepatitis does not lead to dilated bowel loops. Amoebiasis could lead to inflammatory bowel disease, however, occult blood in stool is usually positive. Ileal adenocarcinoma is rare. Meckel’s diverticulum can possibly lea to obstruction but the findings described here are more consistent with obstruction due to peritoneal adhesions from a past surgery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 32
Incorrect
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Which of the following coagulation factors is responsible for the formation of a complex with tissue factor to activate factors IX and X?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Factor VII
Explanation:Factor VII, also known as proconvertin or stable factor, is a vitamin K–dependent protein that plays a central role in haemostasis and coagulation. Tissue factor is a protein that is normally not exposed on the surface of intact blood vessels. Damage to the vascular lumen leads to tissue factor exposure. The exposed tissue factor binds to factor VII. This facilitates the activation of factor VII to factor VIIa.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 33
Incorrect
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Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a multidrug resistant pathogen that causes hospital-acquired infections. It is usually treated with piperacillin or another antibiotic. Which of the following is the other antibiotic?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Azlocillin
Explanation:Azlocillin, like piperacillin, is an acylampicillin antibiotic with an extended spectrum of activity and greater in vitro potency than the carboxypenicillins. Azlocillin is similar to mezlocillin and piperacillin. It demonstrates antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 34
Incorrect
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Which part of the nephron would have to be damaged to stop the reabsorption of the majority of salt and water?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Proximal tubule
Explanation:The proximal tubule is the portion of the duct system of the nephron of the kidney which leads from Bowman’s capsule to the loop of Henle. It is conventionally divided into the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) and the proximal straight tubule (PST). The proximal tubule reabsorbs the majority (about two-thirds) of filtered salt and water. This is done in an essentially iso-osmotic manner. Both the luminal salt concentration and the luminal osmolality remain constant (and equal to plasma values) along the entire length of the proximal tubule. Water and salt are reabsorbed proportionally because the water is dependent on and coupled with the active reabsorption of Na+. The water permeability of the proximal tubule is high and therefore a significant transepithelial osmotic gradient is not possible.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 35
Incorrect
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What is the most likely cause of bitemporal hemianopia?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Prolactinoma
Explanation:Prolactinoma is the mot common pituitary adenoma; leading to hyperprolactinaemia. By virtue of their size, macroprolactinomas press on the adjacent structures leading to headaches and loss of vision due to the pressure effect on optic chiasm. Women notice a change in their menstrual cycle due to raised prolactin levels. In comparison, the problem goes unnoticed in men in the initial stages. Craniopharyngioma is a less common space-occupying lesions affecting children and young adults.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Pathology
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Question 36
Incorrect
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Which of the following diseases can cause paraesthesia along the distribution of the median nerve of the hand, especially after activities which require flexion and extension of the wrist?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Carpal tunnel syndrome
Explanation:Carpal tunnel syndrome tends to occur in women between the ages of 30-50. There are many risk factors, including diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, pregnancy, and repetitive wrist work. Symptoms include pain in the hand and wrist, tingling, and numbness distributed along the median nerve (the palmar side of the thumb, the index and middle fingers, and the radial half of the ring finger), which worsens at night.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 37
Incorrect
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If the blood flow is constant, oxygen extraction by tissues will show the greatest decrease due to which of the following interventions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Tissue cooling
Explanation:With a constant blood flow to a given tissue bed, there will be an increase in oxygen extraction by the tissue with the following; an increase in tissue metabolism and oxygen requirements: warming (or fever), exercise, catecholamines and thyroxine. With cooling, the demand for oxygen decreases, leading to decreased oxygen extraction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 38
Incorrect
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A 10-year-old boy was sent for an x-ray of the leg because he was complaining of pain and swelling. The x-ray showed the classic sign of Codman's triangle. What is the most likely diagnosis of this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Osteosarcoma
Explanation:Codman’s triangle is the triangular area of new subperiosteal bone that is created when a lesion, often a tumour, raises the periosteum away from the bone. The main causes for this sign are osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, eumycetoma, and a subperiosteal abscess.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 39
Incorrect
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A 39-year-old man, after radiological evaluation and thoracentesis, was found to have chylothorax. What is the most probable cause of this diagnose?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mediastinal malignant lymphoma
Explanation:Chylothorax is a potentially lethal condition characterized by fluid (chyle) accumulation in the pleural cavity, resulting from disruption of lymphatic drainage in the thoracic duct. Chyle is a fluid rich in triglycerides and chylomicrons and can originate from the thorax, the abdomen or both. Malignant tumours, especially lymphoma, are the most common causes of nontraumatic chylothorax. Bronchogenic carcinoma and trauma are the most common causes after lymphomas. Other rare causes of chylothorax are; granulomatous diseases, tuberculosis, congenital malformations, nephrotic syndrome, hypothyroidism, cirrhosis, decompensated heart failure and idiopathic chylothorax.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 40
Incorrect
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Which of these infectious agents tends to affect people under 20 and over 40 years old, can cause acute encephalitis with cerebral oedema and petechial haemorrhages, along with haemorrhagic lesions of the temporal lobe. A lumbar puncture will reveal clear cerebrospinal fluid with an elevated lymphocyte count?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Herpes simplex virus
Explanation:Haemorrhagic lesions of the temporal lobe are typical of Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE). It tends to affect patients aged under 20 or over 40 years, and is often fatal if left untreated. In acute encephalitis, cerebral oedema and petechial haemorrhages occur and direct viral invasion of the brain usually damages neurones. The majority of cases of herpes encephalitis are caused by herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), and about 10% of cases of herpes encephalitis are due to HSV-2, which is typically spread through sexual contact.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 41
Incorrect
-
How much blood can the pulmonary vessels of a 45-year-old healthy man accommodate when he is at rest?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 500 ml
Explanation:Pulmonary circulation is the portion of the cardiovascular system which carries deoxygenated blood away from the heart, to the lungs, and returns oxygenated blood back to the heart. The vessels of the pulmonary circulation are very compliant (easily distensible) and so typically accommodate about 500 ml of blood in an adult man. This large lung blood volume can serve as a reservoir for the left ventricle, particularly during periods when left ventricular output momentarily exceeds venous return.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 42
Incorrect
-
A 47 -year-old male was admitted due to a bleeding peptic ulcer. On his 3rd hospital day, he developed a cardiac arrhythmia. His serum potassium was markedly elevated. What is the most likely cause of hyperkalaemia in this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Multiple blood transfusions
Explanation:Patients with gastrointestinal bleeding often require blood transfusion. Among the various side effects of blood transfusions, is the increase of potassium levels. The use of stored blood for transfusions is followed by an increase of serum potassium levels. Potassium level increases are more pronounced in patients who receive blood stored for more than 12 d. Furthermore, the lysis and destruction of red blood cells, especially in the transfusion of older PRBCs, can further increase potassium levels. Excessive use of a PPi has been associated with hyperkaelemia however would be less likely in this acute setting.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 43
Incorrect
-
A 34-year-old woman is diagnosed with cerebral oedema after suffering a severe head trauma. Which of the following conditions is not likely to be associated with the extracellular oedema?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Increased plasma colloid osmotic pressure
Explanation:Cerebral oedema is extracellular fluid accumulation in the brain. Increased capillary permeability, increased capillary pressure, increased interstitial fluid colloid osmotic pressure and lymphatic blockage would increase fluid movement into the interstitial spaces. Increased plasma colloid osmotic pressure, however, would oppose fluid movement from the capillaries into the interstitial compartment.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 44
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is the cause of flattened (notched) T waves on electrocardiogram (ECG)?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypokalaemia
Explanation:The T-wave is formed due to ventricular repolarisation. Normally, it is seen as a positive wave. It can be normally inverted (negative) in V1 (occasionally in V2-3 in African-Americans/Afro-Caribbeans). Hyperacute T-waves are the earliest ECG change of acute myocardial infarction. ECG findings of hyperkalaemia include high, tent-shaped T-waves, a small P-wave and a wide QRS complex. Hypokalaemia results in flattened (notched) T-waves, U-waves, ST-segment depression and prolonged QT interval.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 45
Incorrect
-
Renin is secreted by pericytes in the vicinity of the afferent arterioles of the kidney from the juxtaglomerular cells. Plasma renin levels are decreased in patients with:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Primary aldosteronism
Explanation:Primary aldosteronism, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism or Conn’s syndrome, is excess production of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands resulting in low renin levels. Most patients with primary aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome) have an adrenal adenoma. The increased plasma aldosterone concentration leads to increased renal Na+ reabsorption, which results in plasma volume expansion. The increase in plasma volume suppresses renin release from the juxtaglomerular apparatus and these patients usually have low plasma renin levels. Salt restriction and upright posture decrease renal perfusion pressure and therefore increases renin release from the juxtaglomerular apparatus. Secondary aldosteronism is due to elevated renin levels and may be caused by heart failure or renal artery stenosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 46
Incorrect
-
A 59-year old gentleman admitted for elective cholecystectomy was found to have a haemoglobin 12.5 g/dl, haematocrit 37%, mean corpuscular volume 90 fl, platelet count 185 × 109/l, and white blood cell count 32 × 109/l; along with multiple, small mature lymphocytes on peripheral smear. The likely diagnosis is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Explanation:CLL or chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is the most common leukaemia seen in the Western world. Twice more common in men than women, the incidence of CLL increases with age. About 75% cases are seen in patients aged more than 60 years. The blood, marrow, spleen and lymph nodes all undergo infiltration, eventually leading to haematopoiesis (anaemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), hepatomegaly, splenomegaly and decreased production of immunoglobulin. In 98% cases, CD+5 B cells undergo malignant transformation.
Often diagnosed on blood tests while being evaluated for lymphadenopathy, CLL causes symptoms like fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, pallor, dyspnoea on exertion, abdominal fullness or distension. Findings include multiple lymphadenopathy with minimal-to- moderate hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. Increased susceptibility to infections is seen. Herpes Zoster is common. Diffuse or maculopapular skin infiltration can also be seen in T-cell CLL.
Diagnosis is by examination of peripheral blood smear and marrow: hallmark being a sustained, absolute leucocytosis (>5 ×109/l) and increased lymphocytes in the marrow (>30%). Other findings can include hypogammaglobulinemia (<15% of cases) and, rarely, raised lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Only 10% cases demonstrate moderate anaemia and/or thrombocytopenia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 47
Incorrect
-
The blood investigations of a 30-year old man with jaundice revealed the following : total bilirubin 6.5 mg/dl, direct bilirubin 1.1 mg/dl, indirect bilirubin 5.4 mg/dl and haemoglobin 7.3 mg/dl. What is the most likely diagnosis out of the following?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Haemolysis
Explanation:Hyperbilirubinemia can be caused due to increased bilirubin production, decreased liver uptake or conjugation, or decreased biliary excretion. Normal bilirubin level is less than 1.2 mg/dl (<20 μmol/l), with most of it unconjugated. Elevated unconjugated bilirubin (indirect bilirubin fraction >85%) can occur due to haemolysis (increased bilirubin production) or defective liver uptake/conjugation (Gilbert syndrome). Such increases are less than five-fold usually (<6 mg/dl or <100 μmol/l) unless there is coexistent liver disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 48
Incorrect
-
The most likely cause of a low p(O2) in arterial blood is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypoxic hypoxia
Explanation:Hypoxia is when the whole body or a region is deprived of adequate oxygen supply. Different types of hypoxia include the following:
– Hypoxic hypoxia, which occurs due to poor oxygen supply, as a result of low partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. This could be due to low partial pressure of atmospheric oxygen (e.g., at high altitude), sleep apnoea, poor ventilation because of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or respiratory arrest, or shunts. The other types of hypoxia have a normal partial pressure of oxygen.
– Anaemic hypoxia occurs due to low total oxygen content of the blood, with a normal arterial oxygen pressure.
– Hyperaemic hypoxia occurs due to poor delivery of oxygen to target tissues, such as in carbon monoxide poisoning or methemoglobinemia.
– Histotoxic hypoxia results due to inability of the cells to use the delivered oxygen due to disabled oxidative phosphorylation enzymes.
– Ischaemic (or stagnant) hypoxia occurs due to local flow restriction of well-oxygenated blood, seen in cases like cerebral ischaemia, ischaemic heart disease and intrauterine hypoxia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 49
Incorrect
-
A 56-year-old woman weighs 75 kg. In this patient, total body water, intracellular fluid and extracellular fluid are respectively:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 45 l, 30 l, 15 l
Explanation:The percentages of body water contained in various fluid compartments add up to total body water (TBW). This water makes up a significant fraction of the human body, both by weight and by volume. The total body water (TBW) content of humans is approximately 60% of body weight. Two-thirds is located in the intracellular and one-third in the extracellular compartment. So, in a 75-kg individual, TBW = 60 × 75/100 = 45 l. Intracellular content = 2/3 × 45 = 30 l and extracellular content = 1/3 × 45 = 15 l.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 50
Incorrect
-
The periphery of a haematoma is infiltrated by fibroblasts, collagen and new vasculature. This process is best described as?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Organisation of the haematoma
Explanation:Formation of granulation tissue at the periphery of the hematoma is a normal process leading to resolution. This granulation tissue is composed of new capillaries, fibroblasts and collagen. Lysis of a blood clot can occur, but the actual process of this response is known as organization, wherein the scar tissue will become part of the vessels. This is followed by recanalization and embolization which can lead to eventual complications. Proliferation of a clot will occur due to an imbalance in the clotting and lysing systems. Thrombosis has nothing to do with the process described above.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 51
Incorrect
-
A victim of road traffic accident presented to the emergency department with a blood pressure of 120/90 mm Hg, with a drop in systolic pressure to 100 mm Hg on inhalation. This is known as:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulsus paradoxus
Explanation:Weakening of pulse with inhalation and strengthening with exhalation is known as pulsus paradoxus. This represents an exaggeration of the normal variation of the pulse in relation to respiration. It indicates conditions such as cardiac tamponade and lung disease. The paradox refers to the auscultation of extra cardiac beats on inspiration, as compared to the pulse. Due to a decrease in blood pressure, the radial pulse becomes impalpable along with an increase in jugular venous pressure height (Kussmaul sign). Normal systolic blood pressure variation (with respiration) is considered to be >10 mmHg. It is >100 mmHg in Pulsus paradoxus. It is also predictive of the severity of cardiac tamponade.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 52
Incorrect
-
Loperamide is a drug used to treat diarrhoea. What is the mechanism of action of loperamide?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Opiate agonist
Explanation:Loperamide is an opioid-receptor agonist and acts on the mu opioid receptors in the myenteric plexus of large intestine. It works by decreasing the motility of the circular and longitudinal smooth muscles of the intestinal wall. It is often used for this purpose in gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and short bowel syndrome.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 53
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is the most common germ cell tumour of the testis affecting an adult male?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Seminoma
Explanation:Germ cell tumours represent 90% of primary tumours arising in the testis. They are broadly divided into seminomas and non-seminomas. Seminomas are the most common testicular germ cell tumour seen in 40% cases. The other non-seminomatous histological subtypes include embryonal (25%), teratocarcinoma (25%), teratoma (5%) and pure choriocarcinoma (1%).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 54
Incorrect
-
A 45-year-old man presents to the emergency department with an irregular pulse and shortness of breath. Electrocardiography findings show no P waves, normal QRS complexes and an irregularly irregular rhythm. The patient most probably has:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Atrial fibrillation
Explanation:Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common arrhythmias, characterised by an irregular and rapid heart rate. Due to the decreased cardiac output, atrial fibrillation increases the risk of heart failure. It can also lead to thrombus formation which may lead to thromboembolic events. Clinical findings include palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain and confusion. The diagnosis is made by electrocardiographic findings which include absent P wave, fibrillatory (f) waves between QRS complexes and irregularly irregular R-R intervals.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 55
Incorrect
-
Evaluation of a 60-year old gentleman, who has been a coal miner all his life and is suspected to have pulmonary fibrosis reveals the following: normal FEV1, arterial oxygen saturation 92%, alveolar ventilation 6000 ml/min at a tidal volume of 600 ml and a breathing rate of 12 breaths/min. There are also pathological changes in lung compliance and residual volume. Which of the following is most accurate about his residual volume?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cannot be measured directly with a spirometer
Explanation:Residual volume is the air left in the lungs after maximal expiration is done. Thus, this is not a part of vital capacity and cannot be measured with a spirometer directly. It can be measured by the methods such as body plethysmography or inert gas dilution. Expiratory reserve volume is vital capacity minus inspiratory capacity. Resting volume of lungs is he sum of residual volume and expiratory reserve volume. Lungs recoil inward until the recoil pressure becomes zero, which corresponds to a volume significantly lower than residual volume.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 56
Incorrect
-
A young 16 year old boy presented to the ENT clinic with a history of sore throat for the past 1 day. On examination there was a pharyngeal purulent discharge. Which of the following types of inflammation is seen in this boy?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Acute inflammation
Explanation:A 1 day history suggests the purulent discharge is due to acute inflammation. Acute inflammation has 3 features:
1) the affected area is occupied by a purulent discharge composed of proteins, fluids and cells from local blood vessels
2) the infective agent i.e. bacteria is present in the affected area
3) the damaged tissue can be liquified and the debris removed from the site.
If the inflammation lasts over weeks or months, then it is termed as chronic inflammation.
Granulomatous inflammation is characterised by the presence and formation of granulomas.
Exudate is not a feature of resolution or a complication of inflammation.
Abscess formation takes more than 1 day to form and is usually within a capsule/cavity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Respiratory
- Pathology
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Question 57
Incorrect
-
A 30 year old female presented in the emergency with an irregular pulse. Her ECG showed absent P-waves with irregular RR interval. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Atrial fibrillation
Explanation:Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias. It is often asymptomatic but may present with symptoms of palpitations, fainting, chest pain and heart failure. Characteristic findings are: absence of P-waves, unorganised electrical activity in their place, irregularity of RR interval due to irregular conduction of impulses to the ventricles and if paroxysmal AF is suspected, episodes may be documented with the use of Holter monitoring
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 58
Incorrect
-
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:
Correct 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 59
Incorrect
-
An elderly, diabetic man has firm, tender nodules at the base of his left middle and ring fingers, which he can't extend fully. What's the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fibromatosis
Explanation:This case is suggestive of Dupuytren’s contracture due to palmar fibromatosis. Its incidence is higher in men over the age of 45 years, and it increases in patients with diabetes, alcoholism, or epilepsy. These nodules are benign, usually appearing as a tender nodule in the palm which becomes painless. The disease has an aggressive clinical behaviour and recurs frequently.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 60
Incorrect
-
A 76 year old man who presented with lower back pain is diagnosed with prostatic carcinoma that has metastasized to his lumber spine. Which of the following markers is characteristically elevated?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: PSA
Explanation:Spread of prostatic carcinoma is common to the lumbar spine and pelvis. This results in osteoblastic metastases that will present as lower back pain with increased alkaline phosphatase, prostatic acid phosphates and PSA. PSA is more specific and a PSA > 10 ng/ml for any age is worrisome.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia; Urology
- Pathology
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Question 61
Incorrect
-
What is the 5 year survival rate of a patient who is diagnosed with stage III colon cancer, who underwent successful resection and completed the prescribed session of adjuvant chemotherapy?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 30%–60%
Explanation:In this patient who has stage III colon cancer, the survival rate is 30-60%. For stage I or Dukes’ stage A disease, the 5-year survival rate after surgical resection exceeds 90%. For stage II or Dukes’ stage B disease, the 5-year survival rate is 70%–85% after resection, with or without adjuvant therapy. For stage III or Dukes’ stage C disease, the 5-year survival rate is 30%– 60% after resection and adjuvant chemotherapy and for stage IV or Dukes’ stage D disease, the 5-year survival rate is poor (approximately 5%).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 62
Incorrect
-
A 65 year old man with a history of diabetes and hypertension presented with a stroke a few months ago severely affecting his speech and movement in the right arm and leg. A cerebral angiogram revealed a middle cerebral artery occlusion. A recent CT scan was done which revealed a 5 cm cystic space in his left parietal lobe. This lesion is a result of which of the following forms of resolution?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Liquefactive necrosis
Explanation:Characteristically, the brain will undergo liquefactive necrosis following ischaemic injury. This leaves a cystic space in that region which would show up on a CT scan. Atrophy would result in a generalized decrease in the brain size. Coagulative necrosis typically occurs in parenchymal organs e.g. the spleen or kidney which have a lower lipid content. Caseous necrosis is typical in granulomatous tuberculosis infection. Apoptosis will not form a cystic area as it is programmed cell death involving a individual cells. Gangrenous necrosis is characteristic of ischaemic injury of the lower limb and GI tract. Fibrinous necrosis results from necrotic damage to the blood vessels with the leaking of proteins into the vessel, appearing bright pink on H & E staining.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 63
Incorrect
-
A 58-year-old woman diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis had been using warfarin for 10 days. When she presented to the doctor she had haemorrhagic bullae and necrotic lesions in her lower limbs and buttocks. Deficiency of which of the following proteins may have caused the necrotic skin lesions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Protein C
Explanation:Warfarin-induced skin necrosis is a rare complication of anticoagulant therapy that requires immediate drug cessation. The most common cutaneous findings include petechiae that progress to ecchymoses and haemorrhagic bullae. Warfarin inactivates vitamin K-dependent clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X and vitamin K-dependent proteins C and S. The concentration of protein C falls more rapidly than other vitamin K-dependent factors because they have a shorter half-lives. Skin necrosis is seen mainly in patients with prior protein C deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 64
Incorrect
-
Which of the following conditions causes an elevation of the pH in the tissues with elevated arterial CO2 content?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metabolic alkalosis
Explanation:Metabolic alkalosis is a metabolic condition in which the pH of tissue is elevated beyond the normal range (7.35-7.45). This is the result of decreased hydrogen ion concentration, leading to increased bicarbonate, or alternatively a direct result of increased bicarbonate concentrations. Normally, arterial pa(CO2) increases by 0.5–0.7 mmHg for every 1 mEq/l increase in plasma bicarbonate concentration, a compensatory response that is very quick. If the change in pa(CO2) is not within this range, then a mixed acid–base disturbance occurs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 65
Incorrect
-
A Jewish man was diagnosed with haemophilia C. Which of the following factors is deficient in this form of haemophilia?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Factor XI
Explanation:Haemophilia C, also known as plasma thromboplastin antecedent (PTA) deficiency or Rosenthal syndrome, is a condition caused by the deficiency of the coagulation factor XI. The condition is rare and it is usually found in Ashkenazi Jews.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 66
Incorrect
-
Which of the following mediators of inflammation requires arachidonic acid for synthesis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Prostaglandins
Explanation:Arachidonic acid is normally present in the phospholipids that make up the cell membrane and is cleaved by phospholipase A2 from the phospholipid. Arachidonic acid is a precursor for the production of eicosanoids which include: 1) prostaglandins, prostacyclins and thromboxane, 2) leukotrienes and 3) anandamides. The production of these products along with their action on the body is called the arachidonic acid cascade.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 67
Incorrect
-
A 36-year old gentleman with a history of cough for 4 weeks came to the hospital. Examination revealed multiple lymphadenopathy with splenomegaly. Investigations revealed haemoglobin 11 g/dl, haematocrit 32.4%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 93 fl, white blood cell count 63 × 109/l, and platelet count 39 × 109/l; along with characteristic Auer rods on peripheral blood smear. What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML)
Explanation:AML, or acute myeloid leukaemia is the commonest acute leukaemia affecting adults. increasing in incidence with age. It is a malignancy of the myeloid line of white blood cells. It results in rapid proliferation of abnormal cells, which accumulate in the marrow. Interference with normal cell production leads to a drop in red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. This causes symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath, tendency to bleed or bruise easily and recurrent infections. AML is known to progress quickly and can lead to death in weeks and months if not treated. Leukemic blasts of AML show presence of Auer rods. These are clumps of azurophilic granular material that form needles in the cytoplasm. Composed of fused lysosomes, these contain peroxidase, lysosomal enzymes and crystalline inclusions. Auer rods are classically present in myeloid blasts of M1, M2, M3 and M4 acute leukaemia. They also help to distinguish the preleukemia myelodysplastic syndromes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 68
Incorrect
-
A 27-year-old woman, who had been taking a combined oral contraceptive for 6 months, presented with inguinal pain and oedema of the left leg. Which of the following investigations would you recommend to help confirm the diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Duplex scan
Explanation:Oral combined contraceptive pill (OCCP) is a drug used for birth control and treating a number of other conditions. Women who take the OCP have a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), usually in the legs. Duplex ultrasonography is a safe and non-invasive technique which is used for diagnosing the presence of lower extremity thrombi.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 69
Incorrect
-
A 5 year-old-child with fever complains of sore throat . She was brought to her paediatrician for consult because she has also developed a rash and has swollen lymph nodes. Upon physical examination she cried when her liver was palpated and the tip of her spleen is slightly palpable. Full blood count shows haemoglobin 13 g/dL, Haematocrit 40%, white blood cell count 13x109/L with a WBC differential count of 45 neutrophils, 4 bands, 26 lymphocytes, 15 atypical lymphocytesm, 10 monocytes and 1 eosinophil. Whick is the most likely infectious agent that is responsible for the patient's condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Epstein–Barr virus
Explanation:Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpes virus 4,is a member of the herpes virus family. EBV spreads most commonly through bodily fluids, primarily saliva. EBV can cause infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms of EBV can include fatigue, fever, inflamed throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, enlarged spleen, swollen liver and rash.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 70
Incorrect
-
A 25-year-old female had a painful abdomen and several episodes of vomiting. She was severely dehydrated when she was brought to the hospital. Her ABG showed a pH 7.7, p(O2) 75 mmHg, p(CO2) 46 mmHg and bicarbonate 48 mmol/l. The most likely interpretation of this ABG report would be:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metabolic alkalosis
Explanation:Metabolic alkalosis is a primary increase in bicarbonate (HCO3−) with or without compensatory increase in carbon dioxide partial pressure (Pco2); pH may be high or nearly normal. Metabolic alkalosis occurs as a consequence of a loss of H+ from the body or a gain in HCO3 -. In its pure form, it manifests as alkalemia (pH >7.40). As a compensatory mechanism, metabolic alkalosis leads to alveolar hypoventilation with a rise in arterial carbon dioxide tension p(CO2), which diminishes the change in pH that would otherwise occur. Normally, arterial p(CO2) increases by 0.5–0.7 mmHg for every 1 mmol/l increase in plasma bicarbonate concentration, a compensatory response that occurs very rapidly. If the change in p(CO2) is not within this range, then a mixed acid–base disturbance occurs. Likewise, if the increase in p(CO2) is less than the expected change, then a primary respiratory alkalosis is also present. However an elevated serum bicarbonate concentration can also occur due to a compensatory response to primary respiratory acidosis. A bicarbonate concentration greater than 35 mmol/l is almost always caused by metabolic alkalosis (as is the case in this clinical scenario). Calculation of the serum anion gap can also help to differentiate between primary metabolic alkalosis and the metabolic compensation for respiratory acidosis. The anion gap is frequently elevated to a modest degree in metabolic alkalosis because of the increase in the negative charge of albumin and the enhanced production of lactate. However, the only definitive way to diagnose metabolic alkalosis is by performing a simultaneous blood gases analysis, which reveals elevation of both pH and arterial p(CO2) and increased calculated bicarbonate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 71
Incorrect
-
Skin infiltration by neoplastic T lymphocytes is seen in:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mycosis fungoides
Explanation:Mycosis fungoides is a chronic T-cell lymphoma that involves the skin and less commonly, the internal organs such as nodes, liver, spleen and lungs. It is usually diagnosed in patients above 50 years and the average life expectancy is 7-10 years. It is insidious in onset and presents as a chronic, itchy rash, eventually spreading to involve most of the skin. Lesions are commonly plaque-like, but can be nodular or ulcerated. Symptoms include fever, night sweats and weight loss. Skin biopsy is diagnostic. However, early cases may pose a challenge due to fewer lymphoma cells. The malignant cells are mature T cells (T4+, T11+, T12+). The epidermis shows presence of characteristic Pautrier’s micro abscesses are present in the epidermis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 72
Incorrect
-
A 32-year-old man presents to the doctor complaining of pain in his left calf whilst walking. He says that the pain goes away after a short period of rest but starts again during exercise or walking. The man reveals he has been a smoker for the last 15 years. His blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol level are normal. Artery biopsy shows intraluminal thrombosis and vasculitis. What's is the most likely cause of these findings?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Buerger's disease
Explanation:Thromboangiitis obliterans, also known as Buerger’s disease, is a rare type of occlusive peripheral arterial disease, usually seen in smokers, most commonly in men aged 20 to 40. Symptoms most often include intermittent claudication, skin changes, painful ulcers on extremities, pain in the extremities during rest and gangrene. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings, arteriography, echocardiography, and computed tomography angiography. A difference in blood pressure between arms, or between the arms and legs is a common finding. Electrocardiographic findings include nonspecific abnormality or normal results.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 73
Incorrect
-
A cell is classified on the basis of its regenerative ability. Which of the following cells represent a permanent cell?
Your Answer:
Correct 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 74
Incorrect
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A 30 year old man suffered severe blood loss, approx. 20-30% of his blood volume. What changes are most likely seen in the pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) respectively following this decrease in cardiac output?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Increase Decrease
Explanation:Hypovolemia will result in the activation of the sympathetic adrenal discharge resulting is a decrease pulmonary artery pressure and an elevated pulmonary vascular resistance.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 75
Incorrect
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Which of the following is the most likely cause of prolonged thrombin clotting time?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypofibrinogenemia
Explanation:Thrombin clotting time, also called thrombin time (TT), is test used for the investigation of possible bleeding or clotting disorders. TT reflects the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and it’s also very sensitive to the presence of the anticoagulant heparin. A prolonged thrombin time may indicate the presence of hypofibrinogenemia (decreased fibrinogen level ), dysfibrinogenaemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), end stage liver disease or malnutrition.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 76
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:
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 77
Incorrect
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Difficulty in retracting the foreskin of the penis in an uncircumcised male is known as:
Your Answer:
Correct 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 78
Incorrect
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Where do the cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocyte system originate?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Bone marrow
Explanation:The macrophage originates from a committed bone marrow stem cell. It is called the pluripotent hematopoietic stem cell. This differentiates into a monoblast and then into a promonocyte and finally matures into a monocyte. When called upon they leave the bone marrow and enter into the circulation. Upon entering the tissue they transform into macrophages. Tissue macrophages include: Kupffer cells (liver), alveolar macrophages (lung), osteoclasts (bone), Langerhans cells (skin), microglial cells (central nervous system), and possibly the dendritic immunocytes of the dermis, spleen and lymph nodes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 79
Incorrect
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Which of the following diseases causes abrupt vertigo, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, and nystagmus?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Vestibular neuronitis
Explanation:Vestibular neuronitis or labyrinthitis causes a self-limited episode of vertigo, presumably due to inflammation of the vestibular division of cranial nerve VIII. Its causes are unknown, It may be due to a virus, but it can be related to a bacterial infection, head injury, stress, allergy, or as a reaction to medication. Symptoms can last up to 7-10 days.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 80
Incorrect
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A 30-year-old woman feels thirsty. This thirst is probably due to:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Increased level of angiotensin II
Explanation:Thirst is the basic need or instinct to drink. It arises from a lack of fluids and/or an increase in the concentration of certain osmolites such as salt. If the water volume of the body falls below a certain threshold or the osmolite concentration becomes too high, the brain signals thirst. Excessive thirst, known as polydipsia, along with excessive urination, known as polyuria, may be an indication of diabetes. Angiotensin II is a hormone that is a powerful dipsogen (i.e. it stimulates thirst) that acts via the subfornical organ. It increases secretion of ADH in the posterior pituitary and secretion of ACTH in the anterior pituitary.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 81
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old male has a mass on the right lung with involvement of the right mediastinal lymph nodes. What is the nodal staging according to the TNM staging?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: N2
Explanation:The N stages for lung cancer are from NO to N3 : NO, there is no lung cancer in any lymph nodes: N1, there is lung cancer in the proximal lymph nodes: N2, there is lung cancer in the mediastinal hilar lymph nodes, but on the same side as the affected lung or there is lung cancer in the carinal lymph nodes: N3, there is metastatic lung cancer in lymph nodes on the opposite side of the chest, in the cervical or apical lymph nodes. In this patient the ipsilateral mediastinal node is involved, thus it is classified as N2.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 82
Incorrect
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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:
Correct 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 83
Incorrect
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Ventricular filling follows a delay caused by?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: AV node
Explanation:The AV node is a conducting tissue found between the atria and the ventricles of the heart. It conducts electrical signal from the atria to the ventricles and acts a delaying mechanism preventing the atria and the ventricles from contracting at the same time. This decremental conduction prevents premature ventricular contraction in cases such as atrial fibrillation. A delay in the AV node is the reason for the PR segment seen on the ECG. In certain types of supraventricular tachycardia, a person could have two AV nodes; this will cause a loop in electrical current and uncontrollably rapid heart beat. When this electricity catches up with itself, it will dissipate and return to a normal heart rate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 84
Incorrect
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In multiple myeloma, which of these cell types confirms the diagnosis when found in a smear of bone marrow aspirate?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Plasma cells
Explanation:A bone marrow aspiration is the diagnostic test for multiple myeloma, which is a malignant bone tumour that usually affects older adults. The smear reveals clusters of plasma cells, while X-rays tend to show circumscribed lytic lesions or diffuse demineralisation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 85
Incorrect
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Glucose is the most important source of energy for cellular respiration. The transport of glucose in the renal tubular cells occurs via:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Secondary active transport with sodium
Explanation:In 1960, Robert K. Crane presented for the first time his discovery of the sodium-glucose cotransport as the mechanism for glucose absorption. Glucose transport through biological membranes requires specific transport proteins. Transport of glucose through the apical membrane of renal tubular as well as intestinal epithelial cells depends on the presence of secondary active Na+–glucose symporters, SGLT-1 and SGLT-2, which concentrate glucose inside the cells, using the energy provided by co-transport of Na+ ions down their electrochemical gradient.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 86
Incorrect
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After finding elevated PSA levels, a 69-year-old man undergoes a needle biopsy and is diagnosed with prostatic cancer. What is the stage of this primary tumour?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: T1c
Explanation:The AJCC uses a TNM system to stage prostatic cancer, with categories for the primary tumour, regional lymph nodes and distant metastases:
TX: cannot evaluate the primary tumour T0: no evidence of tumour
T1: tumour present, but not detectable clinically or with imaging T1a: tumour was incidentally found in less than 5% of prostate tissue resected (for other reasons)
T1b: tumour was incidentally found in more than 5% of prostate tissue resected
T1c: tumour was found in a needle biopsy performed due to an elevated serum prostate-specific antigen
T2: the tumour can be felt (palpated) on examination, but has not spread outside the prostate
T2a: the tumour is in half or less than half of one of the prostate gland’s two lobes
T2b: the tumour is in more than half of one lobe, but not both
T2c: the tumour is in both lobes
T3: the tumour has spread through the prostatic capsule (if it is only part-way through, it is still T2)
T3a: the tumour has spread through the capsule on one or both sides
T3b: the tumour has invaded one or both seminal vesicles
T4: the tumour has invaded other nearby structures.
In this case, the tumour has a T1c stage.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 87
Incorrect
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A 30-year-old man is brought to the emergency department suffering from extreme dehydration, and subsequent hypotension and tachycardia. Which part of the kidney will compensate for this loss?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Collecting ducts
Explanation:The collecting duct system of the kidney consists of a series of tubules and ducts that physically connect nephrons to a minor calyx or directly to the renal pelvis. The collecting duct system is the last component of the kidney to influence the body’s electrolyte and fluid balance. In humans, the system accounts for 4–5% of the kidney’s reabsorption of sodium and 5% of the kidney’s reabsorption of water. At times of extreme dehydration, over 24% of the filtered water may be reabsorbed in the collecting duct system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 88
Incorrect
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The accumulation of eosinophils within tissues is mostly regulated by which of the following cytokines?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Interleukin-5
Explanation:IL-5 is produced by TH2 helper cells and by mast cells. They stimulate increased secretion of immunoglobulins and stimulate B cell growth. They are the major regulators in eosinophil activation and control. They are also released from eosinophils and mast cells in asthmatic patients and are associate with a many other allergic conditions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 89
Incorrect
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During cardiac catheterisation in a 20-year old man, the following data is obtained: Pressure (mmHg), O2 saturation (%) Right atrium 7 (N = 5) 90 (N = 75), Right ventricle 35/7 (N = 25/5) 90 (N = 75), Pulmonary artery 35/8 (N = 25/15), 90 (N = 75), Left atrium 7 (N = 9) 95 (N = 95), Left ventricle 110/7 (N = 110/9) 95 (N = 95), Aorta 110/75 (N = 110/75) 95 (N = 95) where N = Normal value. What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Atrial septal defect
Explanation:A congenital heart disease, ASD or atrial septal defect leads to a communication between the right and left atria due to a defect in the interatrial septum. This leads to mixing of arterial and venous blood from the right and left side of the heart. The hemodynamic significance of this defect depends on the presence of shunting of blood. Normally, the left side of the heart has higher pressure than the right as the left side has to pump blood throughout the body. A large ASD (> 9 mm) will result in a clinically significant left-to-right shunt, causing volume overload of the right atrium and ventricle, eventually leading to heart failure. Cardiac catheterization would reveal very high oxygen saturation in the right atrium, right ventricle and pulmonary artery. Eventually, the left-to-right shunt will lead to pulmonary hypertension and increased afterload in the right ventricle, along with the increased preload due to the shunted blood. This will either cause right ventricular failure, or raise the pressure in the right side of the heart to equal or more than that in the left. Elevation of right atrial pressure to that of left atrial pressure would thus lead to diminishing or complete cessation of the shunt. If left uncorrected, there will be reversal of the shunt, known as Eisenmenger syndrome, resulting in clinical signs of cyanosis as the oxygen-poor blood form right side of the heart will mix with the blood in left side and reach the peripheral vascular system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 90
Incorrect
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A 56-year-old woman complains of back pain, muscle spasms, weakness, and a burning sensation that radiates from her left hip to her toes. What's the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Herniated nucleus pulposus
Explanation:A herniated disk will produce sensory disturbances, causing pain that radiates along the course of the sciatic nerve which is typically burning or stabbing, with or without back pain. The herniation is usually caused by age-related degeneration although trauma, injuries, or straining may also trigger it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 91
Incorrect
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A 66-year-old man complains of constant headaches. On physical examination, the only relevant sign is a dark brown mole located on left his arm which has grown in size over the years and is itchy and painful. A MRI of the brain revealed a solitary lesion at the grey-white junction in the right frontal lobe, without ring enhancement. This lesion is most likely to be:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metastatic carcinoma
Explanation:The location of the mass at the grey–white junction is typical of a metastasis. The most frequent types of metastatic brain tumours originate in the lung, skin, kidney, breast and colon. These tumour cells reach the brain via the bloodstream. This patient is likely to have skin cancer, which caused the metastatic brain tumour.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 92
Incorrect
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Elevated mean corpuscular volume with hypersegmented neutrophils and low reticulocyte index is seen in on the blood count of a middle-aged lady about to undergo elective surgery. On enquiry, she mentions feeling tired for a few months. Which of the following investigations should be carried out in her to reach a diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Serum vitamin B12 and folate
Explanation:Elevated levels of MCV indicates megaloblastic anaemia, which are associated with hypersegmented neutrophils. Likely causes include vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. Megaloblastic anaemia results from defective synthesis of DNA. As RNA production continues, the cells enlarge with a large nucleus. The cytoplasmic maturity becomes greater than nuclear maturity. Megaloblasts are produced initially in the marrow, before blood. Dyspoiesis makes erythropoiesis ineffective, causing direct hyperbilirubinemia and hyperuricemia. As all cell lines are affected, reticulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia develop. Large, oval blood cells (macro-ovalocytes) are released in the circulation, along with presence of hypersegmented neutrophils.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 93
Incorrect
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Pain in the epigastric region occurring typically 2-3 hours after meals and causing the patient to wake up at night is characteristic of which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Duodenal ulcer
Explanation:The description is typical for duodenal ulcers. There is no pain upon waking in the morning however it appears around mid-morning and is relieved by ingestion of food. The pain also often causes the patient to wake up at night.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 94
Incorrect
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Which of the following is the most abundant WBC seen in a smear from a healthy person.
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Neutrophils
Explanation:neutrophils are the most abundant cell type of the WBC. These phagocytes are found normally in the blood and increase in number are seen during an acute inflammation. These the percentages of WBC in blood Neutrophils: 40 to 60%
Lymphocytes: 20 to 40%
Monocytes: 2 to 8%
Eosinophils: 1 to 4%
Basophils: 0.5 to 1%
Band (young neutrophil): 0 to 3%. eosinophils, basophils, neutrophils are known as granulocytes and monocytes and lymphocytes as agranulocytes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 95
Incorrect
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A suspected recreational drug user was brought to the Emergency department in an unconscious state, and was found to be hypoventilating. Which of the following set of arterial blood gas analysis report is most consistent with hypoventilation as the primary cause? pH, pa(CO2) (mmHg), pa(O2) (mmHg).
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 7.28, 55, 81
Explanation:Hypoventilation (or respiratory depression) causes an increase in carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) and respiratory acidosis. It can result due to drugs such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opiates, mechanical conditions or holding ones breath. Strong opioids such as heroin and fentanyl are commonly implicated and can lead to respiratory arrest. In recreational drug overdose, acute respiratory acidosis occurs with an increase in p(CO2) over 45 mm Hg and acidaemia (pH < 7.35)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 96
Incorrect
-
Which of these conditions is mithramycin used for?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypercalcaemia of malignancy
Explanation:Mithramycin or Plicamycin is a tricyclic pentaglycosidic antibiotic derived from Streptomyces strains. It inhibits RNA and protein synthesis by adhering to DNA. It is used as a fluorescent dye and as an antineoplastic agent. It is also used to reduce hypercalcaemia, especially caused by malignancy. Plicamycin is currently used in multiple areas of research, including cancer cell apoptosis and as a metastasis inhibitor.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 97
Incorrect
-
A 7-year-old boy with facial oedema was brought to the hospital by his parents. Renal function is normal and urinalysis revealed the presence of a profound proteinuria. Which of the following is the most probable cause of these findings?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Minimal-change disease
Explanation:Minimal-change disease (MCD) refers to a histopathologic glomerular lesion, typically found in children, that is almost always associated with nephrotic syndrome. The most noticeable symptom of MCD is oedema, which can develop very rapidly. Due to the renal loss of proteins muscle wasting and growth failure may be seen in children. Renal function is usually not affected and a proteinuria of more than 40 mg/h/m2 is the only abnormal finding in urinalysis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 98
Incorrect
-
Which of the following terms best describes the movement of leukocytes towards a specific target?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Chemotaxis
Explanation:The movement of leukocytes towards a chemical mediator is termed chemotaxis and the mediators likewise called chemoattractants.
Diapedesis is the squeezing of the leukocytes from the capillary wall into the intercellular space.
Endocytosis is engulfing of a small substance by the cells e.g. glucose, protein, fats.
Margination is lining of the WBC along the periphery of the blood vessel.
Adhesion is attachment with the vessel wall.
Phagocytosis is described as engulfing the bacteria or the offending substance.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 99
Incorrect
-
A 29-year-old pregnant woman suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum is prescribed metoclopramide. What is the mechanism of action of metoclopramide?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Dopamine antagonist
Explanation:Metoclopramide is a potent dopamine-receptor antagonist with anti-emetic and prokinetic properties. It is therefore commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, and to facilitate gastric emptying in patients with gastric stasis. The anti-emetic action of metoclopramide is due to its antagonist activity at D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the central nervous system. Common adverse drug reactions associated with metoclopramide include restlessness (akathisia), and focal dystonia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 100
Incorrect
-
A 13-year-old girl has complained of pain in her left arm for 4 months. An X-ray reveals a mass along with erosion of the affected humerus. Histologically, the tumour is found to be formed by small, round, blue cells. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Ewing’s sarcoma
Explanation:Ewing’s sarcoma is formed by small, round, blue cells, and is common in children. The usually develop in limbs, and clinical findings include pain and inflammation, with lytic destruction showing up on X-rays.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
