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Question 1
Correct
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Pulmonary aspiration is the side effect of which analgesic or anaesthetic agent?
Your Answer: General anaesthetic
Explanation:During general anaesthesia, due to the relaxation of the respiratory muscles, the protective gag reflex is also lost. These changes increase the chances of pulmonary aspiration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 2
Incorrect
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What is the site of action of antidiuretic hormone?
Your Answer: Distal convoluted tubule
Correct Answer: Collecting ducts
Explanation:Vasopressin, also called antidiuretic hormone (ADH), regulates the tonicity of body fluids. It is released from the posterior pituitary in response to hypertonicity and promotes water reabsorption in the collecting ducts of the kidneys by the insertion of aquaporin-2 channels.. An incidental consequence of this renal reabsorption of water is concentrated urine and reduced urine volume. In high concentrations may also raise blood pressure by inducing moderate vasoconstriction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 3
Correct
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A 25-year-old female was admitted following the ingestion of 36 paracetamol tablets. On examination she was confused and disoriented. Investigations after 24 hrs showed a normal FBC, pH - 7.2, serum creatinine - 3.7mg/dl and INR 6.5. Which of the following is the most appropriate management for her?
Your Answer: Liver transplantation
Explanation: -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 4
Correct
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A 76-year-old man complains of painful microscopic haematuria and urgency. On examination of the abdomen, there is suprapubic tenderness but no palpable abnormality. He is apyrexial, inflammatory markers and PSA in the blood are normal. Which is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Bladder calculi
Explanation:Painful haematuria suggests trauma, infection or calculi, whereas painless haematuria suggests a possible occult malignancy. This man is apyrexial with normal WCC and CRP which should effectively exclude infection as a cause for his symptoms. There is no history of trauma in this scenario (often catheter-associated) which makes this cause unlikely. It is worth noting that haematuria associated with injury tends to be macroscopic. Therefore, bladder calculi are the most likely source of his symptoms. Imaging will help to determine the presence of calculi.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 5
Correct
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A 4-year-old boy is admitted to the hospital after developing hemarthrosis in his right knee whilst playing in the garden.
Following blood results are obtained:
Plts: 220 x 10^9/L
PT: 11 secs
APTT: 76 secs
Factor VIIIc activity: Normal
What is the most likely diagnosis?Your Answer: Haemophilia B
Explanation:A grossly elevated APTT may be caused by heparin therapy, haemophilia, or antiphospholipid syndrome. A normal factor VIIIc activity, however, points towards the diagnosis of haemophilia B, which is the deficiency of factor IX in the blood.
Haemophilia is an X-linked recessive disorder of coagulation. Up to 30% of patients have no family history of the condition. Haemophilia A is due to the deficiency of clotting factor VIII and is more common than haemophilia B, accounting for 90% of the cases. In haemophilia B (Christmas disease), there is a deficiency of clotting factor IX.
Characteristic features of haemophilia include hemarthrosis, haematomas, and prolonged bleeding following trauma or surgery. Coagulation profile of a haemophiliac person shows prolonged bleeding time, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), but a normal prothrombin time (PT).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 6
Correct
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A 45-year-old female, with 5 day history of fever and pain in the right iliac fossa, presented with acute abdominal pain and rigidity. Past medical, surgical and drug history were unremarkable. The most likely diagnosis will be?
Your Answer: Perforated diverticulum
Explanation:A diverticulum is a sac like protrusion from the colonic wall. Inflammation leads to diverticulitis characterised by abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. In complicated cases. It may lead to perforation, leading to abdominal tenderness, rigidity and guarding. Ischemic colitis presents with sudden onset abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea. Intussusception leads to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and signs of intestinal obstruction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
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Question 7
Incorrect
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A 33-year-old male was brought in with complaints of an unsteady gait. According to the patient, he suffered a severe headache in the morning, with associated vomiting. Slowly his condition deteriorated until he was unable to walk. On exam, he had nystagmus and there was past pointing of the right arm. He speech was slurred, his uvula was deviated towards the right and there was decreased pinprick sensation on the right half of the body. The most likely site of the lesion in this patient would be?
Your Answer: Right lateral medulla
Correct Answer: Left lateral medulla
Explanation:Loss of sensations in left (ipsilateral) side of the face and contralateral (right) side of the body indicates a defect in left lateral medulla. Further cerebellar signs lead to the diagnosis of Lateral Medullary Syndrome.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 8
Correct
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A smoker male presenting with weight loss is found to have a normal chest x-ray but a positive sputum cytology for carcinomatous cells. Which of the following would be the likely TNM classification?
Your Answer: TX, N0, M0
Explanation:The TNM system is a means to describe the amount and spread of cancer in a patient’s body. T describes the size of the tumour and any spread of cancer into nearby tissue; N describes spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes; and M describes metastasis (spread of cancer to other parts of the body).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 9
Correct
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A 50-year-old male patient with Pulmonary Tuberculosis is taking Ethambutol, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Pyridoxine, and Rifampicin. Which of the above drugs is associated with peripheral neuropathy?
Your Answer: Isoniazid
Explanation:Isoniazid is associated with peripheral neuropathy, which occurs due to deficiency of biologically active pyridoxine. The deficiency is caused by the combination of isoniazid and pyridoxine to form a hydrazone which is excreted in the urine. Pyridoxine supplementation reduces the risk associated with Isoniazid.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 10
Incorrect
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Which of the following physical findings is least typical on a patient with multiple sclerosis?
Your Answer: Upgoing plantars
Correct Answer: Decreased tone
Explanation:Attacks or exacerbations of multiple sclerosis (MS) are characterized by symptoms that reflect central nervous system (CNS) involvement, hence upper motor neuron symptoms are seen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 11
Correct
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Which of the following may cause a downbeat nystagmus?
Your Answer: Chiari type I malformation
Explanation:Downbeat nystagmus (DBN) suggests a lesion in the lower part of the medulla. Chiari Type I malformation usually presents with symptoms due to brain stem and lower cranial nerve dysfunction, which includes DBN.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 12
Correct
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A middle-aged female presented in the emergency department with breathlessness for the last few hours. Lung function tests were performed and the results showed her TLCO to be very low but the KCO was 190%. Which of the following is the most probable cause of such findings?
Your Answer: Neuromuscular chest wall disorder
Explanation:A patient suffering from extrapulmonary restriction like a neuromuscular chest wall disorder would show similar signs and symptoms. Due to the restriction the lungs cannot fully inflate for gaseous exchange and hence TLCO drops. On the other hand, no change in cardiac output takes place and this leads to higher density of blood per unit volume resulting in raised KCO. No such findings are observed in diseases like scleroderma, PPH, hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 13
Correct
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A 40-year-old man presents with a history of carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis of his weight-bearing joints. He has recently begun to suffer from symptoms of sleep apnoea.
On examination, he has a prominent jawline and macroglossia. His BP is elevated at 155/95 mmHg and there is peripheral visual field loss.
Which of the following is true?Your Answer: Pegvisomant can be used where IGF-1 is not normalised post surgery
Explanation:The patient has Acromegaly.
Acromegaly is a chronic disorder characterised by growth hormone (GH) hypersecretion, predominantly caused by a pituitary adenoma.Random GH level testing is not recommended for diagnosis given the pulsatile nature of secretion. Stress, physical exercise, acute critical illness and fasting state can cause a physiological higher peak in GH secretion.
Pegvisomant is a US Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for use after surgery. In a global non-interventional safety surveillance study, pegvisomant normalised IGF-1 in 67.5% of patients after 5 years (most likely due to lack of dose-up titration), and also improved clinical symptoms. Pegvisomant improves insulin sensitivity, and long-term follow-up showed significantly decreased fasting glucose over time, while the first-generation SRL only have a marginal clinical impact on glucose homeostasis in acromegaly. Pegvisomant does not have any direct anti-proliferative effects on pituitary tumour cells, but tumour growth is rare overall.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine System & Metabolism
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Question 14
Correct
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A 38-year-old female patient is brought into the emergency department with a 5 day history of altered personality, and visual and auditory hallucinations. On palpation of the abdomen, a mass is felt in the left iliac fossa. Ultrasound of the abdomen suggests a left ovarian tumour. Her basic observations are as follows:
Oxygen saturation 99% on air
Heart rate 98 beats/minute
Respiratory rate 28 breaths/minute
Temperature 37.9 °C
What is the most likely diagnosis?Your Answer: Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
Explanation:The case presents with an underlying ovarian tumour, associated with psychiatric symptoms; thus, an organic illness must first be ruled out before considering the other conditions listed which often present with psychiatric features without an underlying organic disease. Among the listed conditions Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is the only condition that presents with psychiatric features including agitation, hallucinations, delusions and disordered thinking that is associated with tumours 50% of the time.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 15
Correct
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A 59-year-old woman has an 11mm skin lesion on her right forearm, which bleeds easily on contact and has changed in appearance over the last 11 months.
Your Answer: Malignant melanoma
Explanation:Melanoma is more common in men than women. Reasons for the disease includes: UV light and genetic predisposition or mutations. Diagnosis is by biopsy and analysis of any skin lesion that has signs of being potentially cancerous.
Early warning signs of melanoma ABCDE:
Asymmetry
Borders (irregular with edges and corners)
Colour (variegated)
Diameter (greater than 6 mm)
Evolving over time -
This question is part of the following fields:
- The Skin
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Question 16
Incorrect
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A 50-year-old male was under treatment for bipolar disease. He was brought to the emergency department as he had become increasingly confused over the past two days. He had vomiting and diarrhoea. He was also consuming and passing a lot of water.
On examination, he was disoriented. He had vertical nystagmus and was ataxic.
What two investigations are likely to lead to the correct diagnosis?Your Answer: Serum lithium level
Correct Answer: Desmopressin test and serum lithium level
Explanation:Desmopressin test (done to differentiate nephrogenic diabetes insipidus from central diabetes insipidus), and serum lithium levels can together confirm a diagnosis of lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.
Bipolar disease is most often managed with mood stabilizers like lithium. This patient develops gastrointestinal symptoms followed by an acute confusional state associated with polyuria and polydipsia. These symptoms are suggestive of diabetes insipidus.
In a case where these symptoms occur in a bipolar patient under treatment, lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus should be considered as the most probable cause.
Lithium intoxication can present with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, mental dullness, action tremor, weakness, ataxia, slurred speech, blurred vision, dizziness, especially vertical nystagmus and stupor or coma. Diffuse myoclonic twitching and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus can also occur. Such a clinical syndrome occurs above the serum level of lithium of 1.5-2.0 mEq/L.
Management:
– Correcting electrolyte abnormalities in patients with acute disease is critical and often life-saving.
– Treatment should be initiated with parenteral fluids to replete hypovolemia (normal saline at 200-250 mL/h), followed by administration of hypotonic fluid (0.5% normal saline).
– On the restoration of the volume status of the patient forced diuresis should be initiated by the administration of parenteral furosemide or bumetanide accompanied by continued intravenous hypotonic fluid administration to maintain volume status.
– Polyuria is managed with hydrochlorothiazide combined with amiloride, acetazolamide. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 17
Correct
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A 3-year old boy presents with an abdominal mass. Which of the following is associated with Wilms tumour (nephroblastoma)?
Your Answer: Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome
Explanation:Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is a inherited condition associated with organomegaly, macroglossia, abdominal wall defects, Wilm’s tumour and neonatal hypoglycaemia. Wilm’s tumour is a kidney cancer that usually occurs in children. The causes are unknown, however, risk factors include race and family history. Of note, Wilm’s tumour can occur as part of the following syndromes: WAGR syndrome, Denys-Drash syndrome, and Beckwith-Wiedmann syndrome and not the other listed options in this question.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 18
Incorrect
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A 24-year-old female presents with generalised irritation and erythematous skin after sunbathing on the beach. Which is the most appropriate immediate treatment for this patient?
Your Answer: Irrigate with cold water
Correct Answer: Emollient cream
Explanation:Sun burn reactions usually occur after individuals with a light skin tone have prolonged exposure to the sun. The usual symptoms are redness and itching of the skin. The best treatment plan would be further avoidance of sun exposure and the topical application of emollients. These are Ist degree burns and aggressive therapy is not required in such cases.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- The Skin
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Question 19
Correct
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A 59-year-old scientist is referred to you with a 2-year history of ascending lower limb numbness and, more recently, foot drop. In the last 6 months he has also developed numbness in his fingers. He has a distal reduction to pinprick and relatively preserved muscle power, except for ankle dorsiflexion and hyporeflexia in his legs. The GP has already organised nerve conduction studies and the report is sent along with the patient. Which of the following would be suggestive of an axonal neuropathy?
Your Answer: Reduced compound muscle action potential amplitude
Explanation:Reduced conduction velocity is associated with demyelinating neuropathies. An abnormally slow response is associated with very proximal disease, i.e. radiculopathies. Delayed P100 latency is a feature of performing visual evoked potentials in those with optic nerve disease. Conduction block is usually associated with certain types of demyelinating neuropathy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 20
Correct
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A social worker has been diagnosed with hepatitis C infection. Which test will conclusively establish the presence of this infection?
Your Answer: HCV RNA
Explanation:The most sensitive test for detecting Hepatitis C infection (acute) is HCA RNA; it can be detected 1-2 weeks after infection. Anti-HCV antibodies take at least 6 weeks to develop and be positive.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 21
Correct
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A 48-year-old man presents with severe retrosternal pain, which was present for the past 40 minutes. ECG shows ST elevation and blood tests reveal high troponin levels. He has already been given oxygen, GTN and morphine. What is the next most appropriate step?
Your Answer: Percutaneous angiography
Explanation:The patient is experiencing an acute myocardial infarction and percutaneous angiography is the next most appropriate step in management. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty, is a nonsurgical technique for treating obstructive coronary artery disease, including unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction (MI), and multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 22
Correct
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A 54-year-old patient presented with a dry cough after starting treatment for hypertension. He was prescribed ramipril 2.5mg and the dry cough started after that, which disturbed his sleep. His blood pressure was normal. Which of the following is the most appropriate management?
Your Answer: Stop the ramipril and prescribe candesartan
Explanation:ACE inhibitors are known to cause a dry cough and they should be stopped, to settle the cough. The next drug of choice is an angiotensin receptor blocker such as candesartan.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 23
Correct
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A 41-year-old woman has been complaining of tiredness over the past few weeks. She has angular stomatitis but no koilonychia. What is the most probable cell type to be seen in her blood film?
Your Answer: Macrocytes
Explanation:This is a case of Vit. B12 or folic acid deficiency. The anaemia with angular stomatitis is highly suggestive of Vit. B12 or folate deficiency. The absence of koilonychia excludes Iron deficiency anaemia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 24
Correct
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A 20-year-old female has been admitted with an acute infection. She gives a history suggestive of hypersensitivity to amoxicillin. After consultation with the allergy specialist, she has now been diagnosed with an IgE mediated penicillin allergy. Which of the following drugs should be avoided in this patient?
Your Answer: Cefalexin
Explanation:Cefalexin should be avoided in this patient.
This patient is known to have a severe penicillin allergy. None of the above antibiotics are penicillin based. However, 0.5 – 6.5% of patients who are proven to have an IgE mediated penicillin allergy will also be allergic to cephalosporins, including cefalexin.Penicillin, cephalosporins, and carbapenems are all members of the beta-lactam group of antibiotics and share a common beta-lactam ring. There is, therefore, a small risk of allergy cross-over between all these antibiotics. The rates of allergy cross-over are lower with second and third-generation cephalosporins than first-generation cephalosporins such as cefalexin.
It is important to question the patient carefully to ascertain what symptoms they had on exposure to penicillin. Symptoms such as an urticarial rash or itching make it more likely that they have an IgE mediated allergy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immune System
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Question 25
Correct
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Which of the following is correct regarding lead poisoning?
Your Answer: Causes a peripheral neuropathy due to demyelination
Explanation:Lead can be absorbed through the skin and by inhalation. It is associated with iron deficiency and a microcytic anaemia. The most common gastrointestinal symptoms are abdominal colic and constipation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 26
Correct
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A 65-year-male patient was started on warfarin for chronic atrial fibrillation (AF). Which of the following clotting factors is not affected by warfarin?
Your Answer: Factor XII
Explanation:Carboxylation of factor II, VII, IX, X and protein C is affected by warfarin. Factor XII is not affected.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 27
Correct
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A 65-year-old real estate broker presents with a tremor. Which one of the following features would suggest a diagnosis of essential tremor rather than Parkinson's disease?
Your Answer: Tremor is worse when the arms are outstretched
Explanation:Difficulty in initiating movement (bradykinesia), postural instability and unilateral symptoms (initially) are typical of Parkinson’s. Essential tremor symptoms are usually worse if arms are outstretched and eased by rest and alcohol.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 28
Correct
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A baby born a few days earlier is brought into the emergency with complaints of vomiting, constipation and decreased serum potassium. Which of the following is the most probable cause?
Your Answer: Pyloric stenosis: hypokalaemic hypochloraemic metabolic alkalosis
Explanation:In pyloric stenosis a new-born baby presents with a history of vomiting, constipation and deranged electrolytes. Excessive vomiting leads to hypokalaemia. Difficulty in food passing from the stomach to the small intestine causes constipation. Hypokalaemia also causes constipation. None of the other disorders mentioned present with the hypokalaemia, vomiting and constipation triad in a new-born.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
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Question 29
Correct
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A 35-year-old gentleman presents to the Emergency Department with abdominal pain. This started earlier on in the day and is getting progressively worse. The pain is located on his left flank and radiates down into his groin. He has no history of this pain or any other condition. Examination reveals a gentleman who is flushed and sweaty but is otherwise unremarkable. What is the most suitable initial management?
Your Answer: IM diclofenac 75 mg
Explanation:Because of the patient’s presentation with flank pain that radiates to the groin, we are suspecting renal colic. We should follow guidelines for acute renal management and prescribe IM diclofenac for immediate relief of pain.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 30
Correct
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A 55-year-old female with a history of hypertension presented with severe central chest pain for the past one hour, associated with sweating and vomiting. Her ECG showed ST elevation myocardial infarction, evident in leads V2-V4. Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for thrombolysis?
Your Answer: Intracranial neoplasm
Explanation:Absolute contraindications for fibrinolytic use in STEMI
Prior intracranial haemorrhage (ICH)
Known structural cerebral vascular lesion
Known malignant intracranial neoplasm
Ischemic stroke within 3 months
Suspected aortic dissection
Active bleeding or bleeding diathesis (excluding menses)
Significant closed head trauma or facial trauma within 3 months
Intracranial or intraspinal surgery within 2 months
Severe uncontrolled hypertension (unresponsive to emergency therapy)
For streptokinase, prior treatment within the previous 6 months -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 31
Incorrect
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A study is performed to assess a new proton pump inhibitor (PPI) in 120 elderly patients who are receiving aspirin. A control group of 240 elderly patients is given the standard PPI. The final evaluation after five years revealed that 24 individuals receiving the new PPI experienced an upper GI bleed. What is the absolute risk reduction if 60 individuals receiving the standard PPI experienced the same condition?
Your Answer: 20%
Correct Answer: 0.05
Explanation:Absolute risk reduction (ARR) – also called risk difference (RD) – is the most useful way of presenting research results to help your decision-making. Absolute risk reduction = (Control event rate) – (Experimental event rate) = 0.05 = 5% reduction
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 32
Incorrect
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A 75-year-old woman experiences weakness of her left hand. Clinical examination reveals wasting of the hypothenar eminence and weakness of finger abduction and thumb adduction. The lesion is most probably located at:
Your Answer: Anterior interosseous nerve
Correct Answer: Ulnar nerve
Explanation:Patients with compressive neuropathy of the ulnar nerve typically describe numbness and tingling of the ulnar-sided digits of the hand, classically in the small finger and ulnar aspect of the ring finger. Among the general population, symptoms usually begin intermittently and are often worse at night, particularly if the elbow is flexed while sleeping. As the disease progresses, paraesthesia may occur more frequently and during the daytime.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 33
Correct
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Which of the following options is true of patients with oesophageal varices?
Your Answer: In spontaneous bacterial peritonitis cefotaxime appears to be a useful antibiotic
Explanation:Spironolactone has been shown to have no effect on the mechanisms of portal hypertension. Also, chronic use of propranolol can reduce the risk of variceal bleeding. The banding of large varices has been shown to be effective, too. Octreotide and terlipressin are also both used to prevent secondary haemorrhage. Cefotaxime is the most commonly used cephalosporin when treating spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Spironolactone helps to combat secondary hyperaldosteronism which is related to liver failure. It also helps to treat salt and water retention, which both contribute to portal hypertension.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
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Question 34
Correct
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A 34-year-old's chest x-ray showed diffuse bilateral alveolar shadows. He also suffers from shortness of breath, weight loss and dry cough due to Kaposi's sarcoma but no fever was noted. Which is the most likely causative organism?
Your Answer: Pneumocystis jiroveci
Explanation:Pneumocystis Jiroveci. This causative organism is responsible for pneumonia in individuals that have a compromised immune system. Symptoms include cyanosis, dry cough and in some cases, diffuse bilateral alveolar shadows on CXR. Co-trimoxazole is normally the treatment for this.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 35
Incorrect
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Which features may suggest malignant changes in a melanocytic naevi?
Your Answer: Bleeding
Correct Answer: Decrease in size
Explanation:Melanocytic naevi are skin tumours produced by melanocytes. They usually present in childhood but increase during puberty. The mnemonic A-B-C-D, is used by institutions to assess for suspicion of malignancy. The letters stand for asymmetry, border, colour, and diameter. If a mole starts changing in size, colour, shape or, especially, if the border of a mole develops ragged edges or becomes larger than a pencil eraser, it would be an appropriate time to consult with a physician. Other warning signs include if it begins to crust over, bleed, itch, or become inflamed.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- The Skin
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Question 36
Correct
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Which type of cell is responsible for the production of surfactant?
Your Answer: Type II pneumocyte
Explanation:Type I pneumocyte: The cell responsible for the gas (oxygen and carbon dioxide) exchange that takes place in the alveoli. It is a very thin cell stretched over a very large area. This type of cell is susceptible to a large number of toxic insults and cannot replicate itself.
Type II pneumocyte: The cell responsible for the production and secretion of surfactant (the molecule that reduces the surface tension of pulmonary fluids and contributes to the elastic properties of the lungs). The type 2 pneumocyte is a smaller cell that can replicate in the alveoli and will replicate to replace damaged type 1 pneumocytes. Alveolar macrophages are the primary phagocytes of the innate immune system, clearing the air spaces of infectious, toxic, or allergic particles that have evaded the mechanical defences of the respiratory tract, such as the nasal passages, the glottis, and the mucociliary transport system. The main role of goblet cells is to secrete mucus in order to protect the mucous membranes where they are found. Goblet cells accomplish this by secreting mucins, large glycoproteins formed mostly by carbohydrates. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 37
Incorrect
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Which of the following cancers is responsible in producing osteoblastic bone metastases instead of osteolytic?
Your Answer: Granulosa cell tumour of the ovary
Correct Answer: Prostate adenocarcinoma
Explanation:Osteoblastic (or sclerotic) bone metastases, characterized by deposition of new bone, present in prostate cancer, carcinoid, small cell lung cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma or medulloblastoma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 38
Incorrect
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A 60-year-old female presented with difficulty in breathing. What is the clinical sign that will indicate the presence of established pulmonary hypertension?
Your Answer: Single loud second heart sound
Correct Answer: Raised jugular venous pressure
Explanation:A prominent A wave is observed in the jugular venous pulse and this indicates the presence of established pulmonary hypertension. In addition the pulmonic component of the second heart sound (P2) may be increased and the P2 may demonstrate fixed or paradoxical splitting. The signs of right ventricular failure include a high-pitched systolic murmur of tricuspid regurgitation, hepatomegaly, a pulsatile liver, ascites, and peripheral oedema.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 39
Incorrect
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A 85-year-old male with a history of hypertension presented with a couple of pre-syncopal episodes. He describes these episodes as him having felt as if he was going to faint and he has had to sit down. There were no precipitating factors, associated chest pain or palpitations. He doesn't have chest pain, shortness of breath on exertion, orthopnoea or paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea. On examination he looked well. Blood pressure was 140/80 mmHg and pulse rate was 78 bpm which was irregular. His lungs were clear and heart sounds were normal. ECG showed sinus rhythm with occasional ventricular ectopic beats. Which of the following is an indication for permanent pacemaker implantation?
Your Answer: Sinus pauses of >3.0 s
Correct Answer: Second-degree block associated with symptoms
Explanation:Indications for permanent pacemaker implantation
-Sinus node dysfunction
-Acquired Atrioventricular(AV) block (Complete third-degree AV block with or without symptoms, Symptomatic second degree AV block, Mobitz type I and II, Exercise-induced second or third degree AV block in the absence of myocardial infarction, Mobitz II with widened QRS complex)
-Chronic bifascicular block
-After acute phase of myocardial infarction
-Neurocardiogenic syncope and hypersensitive carotid sinus syndrome
-Post cardiac transplantation
-Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
-Pacing to detect and terminate tachycardia
-Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with severe systolic heart failure
-Patients with congenital heart disease -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 40
Correct
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A 44-year-old patient has sudden onset of breathlessness and stridor a few minutes after extubation for thyroidectomy. The patient had long standing goitre for which she had surgery. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Tracheomalacia
Explanation:Prolonged compression of the trachea by a large goitre will cause tracheomalacia following thyroidectomy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 41
Incorrect
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Which of the following vaccines do not contain live organisms?
Your Answer: Typhoid (TY 21a)
Correct Answer: Polio (Salk)
Explanation:Live virus vaccines include: Vaccinia (smallpox), Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR combined vaccine), Varicella (chickenpox), Influenza (nasal spray), Rotavirus, Zoster (shingles) and Yellow fever. Inactivated vaccines are Polio (IPV), Hepatitis A and Rabies.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 42
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old female, on warfarin for mitral valve replacement and atrial fibrillation (AF), is due for extensive abdominal surgery.
What is the most appropriate step in regards to her anticoagulation therapy?Your Answer: Bridge with LMWH only
Correct Answer: Stop warfarin five days pre-operatively, bridge with LMWH and give vitamin K if INR is still above 3.0 on the evening of operation
Explanation:Patients with a VTE within the previous three months, patients with AF and previous stroke or TIA or multiple other risk factors, and patients with a mitral valve replacement should be considered for bridging therapy.
The most appropriate bridging therapy in this case would be low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), with the last dose given not less than 24 hours prior to the procedure. Warfarin should be discontinued 5 days prior to the procedure. If the INR is still above 3 on the day prior to the procedure, vitamin K should be administered.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 43
Incorrect
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A 25-year-old pregnant female suddenly developed a rash on her torso. It started as macules and then became vesicles. After 3 days she died. During her post-mortem, positive findings suggestive of pneumonitis were found. Which one of the following is the most common cause?
Your Answer: Rubella
Correct Answer: Varicella zoster virus (VZV)
Explanation:Varicella zoster virus (VZV) presents in this way and the rash transforms from macules to vesicles. Pneumonitis is a common complication of VZV infection.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 44
Correct
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A young woman is complaining of a sensation of spinning and loss of balance every time she moves sideways on the bed while lying supine. What would you do next?
Your Answer: Head roll test
Explanation:The most probable diagnosis is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). It is a peripheral vestibular disorder characterized by short episodes of mild to intense dizziness and influenced by specific changes in head position. BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo accounting for nearly one-half of patients with peripheral vestibular dysfunction. In order to establish the diagnosis, the head roll test is performed where the head is turned about 90° to each side while supine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 45
Incorrect
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A 23-year-old woman presents with lethargy. Her bloods show: Hb: 10.4 g/dL Plts: 278 x 10^9/L WCC: 6.3 x 10^9/L MCV: 68 fL Blood film: Microcytic hypochromic RBCs, marked anisocytosis and basophilic stippling noted HbA2: 3.9% What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Lead poisoning
Correct Answer: Beta-thalassaemia trait
Explanation:Individuals with thalassemia major usually develop symptoms within the first two years of life. These infants may fail to thrive and often have difficulty feeding, tire easily and suffer from severe anemia.
The infants may also suffer from diarrhea, irritability, recurrent episodes of fever, and other intestinal problems. These children have trouble gaining weight and growing at the rate expected for their age. Other complications include enlarged spleen, heart and liver and misshapen bones.
In many cases, the symptoms are severe enough to warrant regular blood transfusion to replenish the blood with healthy red blood cells. However, these regular transfusions can lead to a build up of iron in the blood that can damage the heart, liver and endocrine system and chelation therapy may be needed to remove this iron from the body.
Individuals with beta thalassemia trait usually have evidence of microcytosis and increased levels of hemoglobin A2. Hemoglobin F is sometimes elevated as well. Individuals with alpha thalassemia trait usually have evidence of microcytosis and normal levels of hemoglobin A2 and F.
In thalassemia major, the hemoglobin (Hb) level is usually less than 7 g/dl; the mean corpuscolar volume (MCV) less than 70 fl and the mean corpuscolar Hb (MCH) is over 20 pg.
In thalassemia intermedia, the hemoglobin level is between 7 and 10 g/dl; the MCV between 50 and 80 fl and MCH between 16 and 24 pg.
Thalassemia minor is characterized by a reduced MCV and MCH and an increased haemoglobin A2 level.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 46
Correct
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A 26-year-old woman is 24 weeks pregnant had a recent ultrasound that shows the foetus large for dates.
She has an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) which was requested due to a combination of her Asian ethnicity and background of obesity.
The following results are obtained:
Time (hours) Blood glucose (mmol/l)
0 9.2
2 14.2
What is the most appropriate management?Your Answer: Start insulin
Explanation:Insulin remains the standard of care for the treatment of uncontrolled gestational diabetes. Tight control maintained in the first trimester and throughout pregnancy plays a vital role in decreasing poor fetal outcomes, including structural anomalies, macrosomia, hypoglycaemia of the new-born, adolescent and adult obesity, and diabetes.
The baby is already large for dates so nutritional therapy can not be used alone. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine System & Metabolism
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Question 47
Correct
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A 68-year-old female underwent surgery for a hysterectomy. 24 hours later, she is complaining of breathlessness. Upon examination, she has bibasal chest crepitations and a raised jugular venous pressure (JVP). From the list of options, which is the most likely electrolyte or fluid abnormality?
Your Answer: Fluid overload
Explanation:The raised JVP and bibasal crepitations in the patient indicate cardiac failure with fluid overload. A chest x-ray and BNP blood level analysis should be performed to confirm this diagnosis. The x-rays should be analysed for alveolar shadowing, Kerly B lines, cardiomegaly, upper lobe diversion, pleural effusion, and fluid in the fissure. If the patient doesn’t have a history of congestive cardiac failure, then this may have been iatrogenic secondary to intravenous fluids.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 48
Correct
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What is the mechanism of action of sildenafil citrate?
Your Answer: Inhibition of phosphodiesterase V
Explanation:Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) is the first oral drug to be widely approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
It is a potent and selective inhibitor of type-V phosphodiesterase, the primary form of the enzyme found in human penile erectile tissue, thereby preventing the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), the intracellular second messenger of nitric oxide.Uses:
It is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, idiopathic pulmonary hypertension, premature ejaculation, high altitude illness, penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy, angina pectoris, and lower urinary tract symptoms.Adverse effects:
Mild headache, flushing, dyspepsia, cyanopsia, back pain, and myalgias – due to a high concentration of PDE11 enzyme in skeletal muscle, which shows significant cross-reactivity with the use of tadalafil.
It can also cause hypotension, dizziness, and rhinitis. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 49
Incorrect
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A 28-year-old woman is investigated for bloody diarrhoea which started around six weeks ago. She is currently passing 3-4 loose stools a day which normally contain a small amount of blood. Other than feeling lethargic she remains systemically well with no fever or significant abdominal pain. A colonoscopy is performed which shows inflammatory changes in the ascending colon consistent with ulcerative colitis. Bloods show the following:
Hb: 14.2 g/dl
Platelets: 323 * 109/l
WBC: 8.1 * 109/l
CRP: 22 mg/l
What is the most appropriate first-line medication to induce remission?Your Answer: Rectal aminosalicylate
Correct Answer: Oral aminosalicylate
Explanation:Given she is not showing signs of systemic illness, you do not need to treat for an acute flair (which would be steroids), but you need to put her on maintenance medication. Oral ASA would be the best option for this, it is first line. You cannot give rectal ASA because the location of her disease is in the ascending colon and the enema will not reach.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
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Question 50
Correct
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A 51-year-old obese female, with a history of smoking, presents to the clinic with worsening dyspnoea. She is currently on oestrogen therapy for menopausal symptoms.
Clinical examination, ECG and radiological findings correspond to right sided heart failure. There are no signs of left ventricular dysfunction.
Which of the following is the most likely cause of cor pulmonale?Your Answer: Recurrent small pulmonary embolisms
Explanation:Postmenopausal oestrogen therapy and hormone therapy are associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism. The relative risk seems to be even greater if the treated population has pre-existing risk factors for thromboembolism, such as obesity, immobilization, and fracture. Cor pulmonale can occur secondary to small recurrent pulmonary embolisms. Pneumonias and bronchiectasis usually present with purulent sputum, and in case of carcinoma there may be other associated symptoms like weight loss, etc.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 51
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old lady who a known case of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) presented with complaints of weakness in her lower limbs, urinary incontinence and progressively worsening confusion. Which of the following statements is true regarding NPH?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Is associated with gait disturbance
Explanation:Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a form of communicating hydrocephalus characterised by enlarged ventricles with normal opening pressure on lumbar puncture. For diagnostic purposes, a triad of urinary incontinence, gait abnormality and dementia is necessary. It is necessary to diagnose the condition early because it is reversible by placing a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. It is most common in patients aged more than 60 years.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 52
Incorrect
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Deposition of macrophages containing PAS (Periodic acid-Schiff) granules were found in a jejunal biopsy of a 45-year-old man complaining of indigestion. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Whipple's disease
Explanation:Whipple’s disease is a rare, systemic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Tropheryma whipplei. It primarily causes malabsorption but may affect any part of the body including the heart, brain, joints, skin, lungs and the eyes. Weight loss, diarrhoea, joint pain, and arthritis are common presenting symptoms, but the presentation can be highly variable and approximately 15% of patients do not have these classic signs and symptoms. Whipple’s disease is significantly more common in men, with 87% of the patients being male. Diagnosis is made by biopsy, usually by duodenal endoscopy, which reveals PAS-positive (periodic acid schiff) macrophages in the lamina propria containing non-acid-fast gram-positive bacilli.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
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Question 53
Incorrect
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A 32-year-old male presents to the emergency after being involved in a horrific fire incident at home with 55% burns over is trunk, back and arms. He has an episode of 300ml of hematemesis which prompts endoscopy. Endoscopy reveals several ulcers in the stomach. How would you manage this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: IV PPI
Explanation:Curling’s ulcer is an acute gastric erosion resulting as a complication from severe burns when reduced plasma volume leads to ischemia and cell necrosis (sloughing) of the gastric mucosa. The medical management of patients with stress ulcers is more or less similar to the management of peptic ulcer disease in general. The medication targeting acid peptic disease includes proton pump inhibitors, antihistamines, and ulcer-healing drugs like sucralfate. Patients with overt GI bleeding from ulceration will require endoscopic evaluation and management of the stress ulcers. Endoscopic therapies may include epinephrine injection, electro-cauterization, or clipping of the bleeding vessels. Bleeding ulcers refractory to localized endoscopic treatment may need embolization of the culprit vessel or rarely surgical intervention as a last resort. Surgical interventions are commonly indicated for patients with refractory bleeding despite endoscopic or angiographic treatment or patients with unstable hemodynamics to undergo endoscopic or angiographic procedures. Surgeries are performed as an ultimate life-saving approach.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
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Question 54
Incorrect
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An 80-year-old female presents to OPD with itching hands, elbows, axillae and groin. Other members residing with her at the retirement home also have similar complaints. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Scabies
Explanation:Scabies is due to an infestation of Sarcoptes scabiei and most commonly presents with these symptoms. The organism resides in burrows in a pattern specifically affecting the interdigital spaces and the skin folds of the arms and legs. The infection spreads from one person to another, especially in populated communities, through close contact.
Henoch-Schönlein purpura is a type of vascular inflammation.
Psoriasis rash is characterised by scaly plaques affecting the extensor surfaces of the body. Pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigoid both are bullous disorders of the skin. They may present as crusted, weeping, diffuse lesions and there may be involvement in other sites; erosions in the mouth are typically involved in pemphigus vulgaris. Bullous pemphigoid involves the flexural areas and may be associated with a new medication. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 55
Incorrect
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A study is done on 1000 patients to assess the specificity of a new rapid finger-prick blood test developed to help diagnose deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The new test was positive on 200 patients with DVT and on 100 patients without DVT. It was also negative on 20 patients with DVT and 680 without DVT. What is the specificity of the new test?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 680/780
Explanation: -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 56
Incorrect
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A 64-year-old female presents with sudden onset pain, swelling and stiffness in her right knee. Her medical history is significant for osteoarthritis affecting her hand joints and diet controlled diabetes mellitus. On examination, the right knee is swollen, erythematous and tender. Which of the following tests would be most useful in the diagnosis of this case?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Aspiration and examination of the synovial fluid
Explanation:Arthrocentesis should usually be done when there is a suspicion of pseudogout or septic arthritis as in this case which leads to an early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Polarized microscopy demonstrates weakly positively birefringent rhomboid crystals which are blue when parallel to light and yellow when perpendicular to light. Elevated serum uric acid levels that cause gout are usually found after large consumption of alcohol or meat, or post surgery. Autoimmune diseases like SLE, RA etc require an autoimmune screen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 57
Incorrect
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A 30-year-old woman who works in a pharmacy comes to the clinic for review. Over the past few months, she has lost increasing amounts of weight and has become increasingly anxious about palpitations, which occur mostly at night. Her TSH is <0.1 IU/l (0.5-4.5).
On examination, her BP is 122/72 mmHg, her pulse is 92 and regular. You cannot palpate a goitre or any nodules on examination of her neck.
Which of the following investigations can differentiate between self-administration of thyroid hormone and endogenous causes of thyrotoxicosis?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Radioactive uptake thyroid scan
Explanation:Once thyrotoxicosis has been identified by laboratory values, the thyroid radio-iodine uptake and scan may be used to help distinguish the underlying aetiology. Thyroid radioiodine uptake is raised in Graves’ disease. It may be normal or raised in patients with a toxic multinodular goitre. It is very low or undetectable in thyrotoxicosis resulting from exogenous administration of thyroid hormone or the thyrotoxic phase of thyroiditis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine System & Metabolism
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Question 58
Incorrect
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A 45-year-old male presents with lower backache and pain in his hips. Blood tests are normal except for elevated serum alkaline phosphatase which is 1200 IU/l (45-105). Radiological examination shows combined osteolytic and osteosclerotic lesions. What is the most common site of occurrence of this disease?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pelvis
Explanation:The patient most likely suffers from Paget’s disease of the bone as his radiological examination shows both osteolytic and osteosclerotic lesions. Any bone or bones can be affected, but Paget’s disease occurs most frequently in the pelvis > lumbar spine > femur > thoracic spine > sacrum > skull > tibia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 59
Incorrect
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A 50-year-old man presented with polyuria and orthostatic hypotension. Which of the following medications is the most likely to be associated with this condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Bendroflumethiazide
Explanation:Bendroflumethiazide is known to cause photosensitive rash as part of an allergic reaction during which the person might also have wheezing, chest tightness or dyspnoea. The rash typically occurs on the areas of body exposed to the sun, like the back, hands, arms and legs.
Comparatively, digoxin produces a rash that comprises of nearly the whole body.
Atenolol may also cause skin rash but that is not photosensitive.
Clopidogrel might produce an non-photosensitive urticarial rash.
Ezetimibe causes a severe allergic reaction but only rarely. This rash is also non-photosensitive and is in the form of blisters, associated with itching. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 60
Incorrect
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A 44-year-old alcoholic man was operated on for a strangulated abdominal hernia, however a few days after the operation he became agitated. According to the patient, he used to see snakes curling over his body. O/E he was agitated, tachycardiac and confused. The most likely diagnosis would be?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Delirium tremens
Explanation:Delirium tremens occurs due to alcohol withdrawal and presents clinically with hallucinations, agitations, confusion and hyperthermia. Wernicke’s encephalopathy is characterised by encephalopathy, oculomotor dysfunction and ataxic gait. In Korsakoff’s syndrome, there is marked short term memory loss, however the long term memory is preserved & the sensorium is also intact.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 61
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old male with a history of myocardial infarction 4 years ago, was admitted with a history of fever for the past 2 weeks. On investigation, his echocardiography revealed a small vegetation around the mitral valve. His blood culture was positive for Streptococcus viridans. Which of the following is the most appropriate antibiotic therapy?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: IV benzylpenicillin
Explanation:According to the American Heart Association (AHA) penicillin-susceptible S viridans, S bovis, and other streptococci (MIC of penicillin of ≤0.1 mcg/mL) should be treated with penicillin G or ceftriaxone or penicillin G + a gentamicin combination or vancomycin (if allergy to penicillin).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 62
Incorrect
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A 24-year-old patient known with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is expecting her first child. She is concerned whether her child will be affected or not. What is the pattern of inheritance of alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Autosomal recessive
Explanation:Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is inherited in an autosomal codominant pattern, meaning that one defective allele tends to result in milder disease than two defective alleles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 63
Incorrect
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All of the following statements regarding glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are true, except?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Increased levels are seen in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Explanation:Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a 30-amino acid peptide hormone produced in the intestinal epithelial endocrine L-cells by differential processing of proglucagon. GLP-1 is released in response to meal intake.
The main actions of GLP-1 are to stimulate insulin secretion (i.e., to act as an incretin hormone) and to inhibit glucagon secretion, thereby contributing to limit postprandial glucose excursions. It also inhibits gastrointestinal motility and secretion and thus acts as an enterogastrone and part of the ileal brake mechanism. GLP-1 also appears to be a physiological regulator of appetite and food intake.
Decreased secretion of GLP-1 may contribute to the development of obesity, and exaggerated secretion may be responsible for postprandial reactive hypoglycaemia. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine System & Metabolism
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Question 64
Incorrect
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A 45-year-old woman who is being treated for Hodgkin's lymphoma with ABVD chemotherapy is reviewed on the haematology ward.
Six days ago, she was admitted with a fever of 38.9°C and was immediately started on piperacillin + tazobactam (Tazocin). Her blood picture on arrival was as follows:
Haemoglobin: 10.1 g/dL
Platelets: 311 x 10^9/L
White cell count: 0.8 x 10^9/L
Neutrophils: 0.35 x 10^9/L
Lymphocytes: 0.35 x 10^9/L
After 48 hours, she remained febrile and tachycardic. Tazocin was stopped and meropenem in combination with vancomycin was prescribed.
She still remains unwell today with a temperature of 38.4°C, heart rate of 96 bpm, and blood pressure of 102/66 mmHg. Respiratory examination is consistently unremarkable and blood and urine cultures have failed to show any cause for the fever.
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step of management?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Add amphotericin B
Explanation:This patient meets the diagnostic criteria for neutropenic sepsis, which is a relatively common complication of cancer therapy – usually chemotherapy occurring 7-14 days after. It is defined as a neutrophil count of <0.5 x 10^9/L in a patient undergoing anticancer treatment and who has either a temperature higher than 38°C or has other features consistent with clinically significant sepsis. Management approach is the same as mentioned in this case. However, if the patient still remains unwell, then an antifungal such as amphotericin B is started after risk-stratifying the patient and carrying out investigations (e.g. HRCT and Aspergillus PCR) to determine the likelihood of systemic fungal infection.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 65
Incorrect
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A 45-year-old male, chronic smoker presented with a 6 month history of a productive cough with blood stained sputum and shortness of breath. The most likely diagnosis would be?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Bronchiectasis
Explanation:Bronchiectasis is characterised by a blood stained productive cough with copious amount of sputum production, along with dyspnoea.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 66
Incorrect
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A 72-year-old woman presents with left side groin pain. She says she suddenly collapsed and was not able to lift her leg anymore. She is on calcium supplements and alendronate. What is the best diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fracture of neck of femur
Explanation:Fracture of the neck of femur is characterised by inability to lift the affected limb. This is relatively common in osteoporotic patients.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 67
Incorrect
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A 42-year-old female with type 1 diabetes who has undergone a renal transplant is being reviewed. She is taking azathioprine and tacrolimus for immunosuppression.
Which among the following is correct regarding the given immunosuppressive agents?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor
Explanation:Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor used as an immunosuppressive agent used for prophylaxis of organ rejection post-transplant.
Pharmacology: Calcineurin inhibition leads to reduced T-lymphocyte signal transduction and IL-2 expression. It has a half-life of 12 hours (average).
Other off-label indications for the use of tacrolimus include Crohn disease, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), myasthenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis.
Adverse effects of tacrolimus includes:
Cardiovascular: Angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension
Central nervous system: Abnormal dreams, headaches, insomnia, tremors.
Dermatologic: Acne vulgaris, alopecia, pruritis, rash
Endocrine and metabolic: Decreased serum bicarbonate, decreased serum iron, new-onset diabetes mellitus after transplant (NODAT), electrolyte disturbances.
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Genitourinary: Urinary tract infection
Hepatic: Abnormal hepatic function tests
Neuromuscular and skeletal: Arthralgia, muscle cramps
Ophthalmic: Blurred vision, visual disturbance
Otic: Otalgia, otitis media, tinnitus
Renal: Acute renal failureOther options:
Sirolimus (a macrolide) is an mTOR inhibitor that blocks the response to IL-2 and has a half-life of 12-15 hours.
Azathioprine inhibits purine synthesis, an essential step in the proliferation of white cells and has a half-life of around 5 hours. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 68
Incorrect
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All of the following statements suggesting a poor prognosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome are correct except?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Evidence demyelination on nerve conduction studies
Explanation:Guillain barre syndrome is a neurological disorder characterised by neuropathy along with ascending paralysis. Denervation rather than demyelination suggests poor prognosis in GB syndrome.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 69
Incorrect
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A 15-year-old boy presented to a urologist with a complaint of blood in the urine and pain in his abdomen. On examination, abdominal swelling is present and blood pressure is elevated. Which of the following is the most appropriate investigation in this case?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Ultrasound
Explanation:Haematuria and abdominal swelling may indicate either polycystic kidney disease or a tumour. Because of the patient’s age, the likelihood of a tumorous growth is small, thus an ultrasound is the best choice for this case.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 70
Incorrect
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A 63-year-old gentleman is admitted to the Emergency Department, with a past history of chronic renal failure, who complains of increasing shortness of breath. Bloods reveal a creatinine of 570 μmol/l, urea of 48 mmol/l. He is also anaemic with a haemoglobin (Hb) of 8.9 g/dl.
On examination he has a pericardial rub and there are bibasal crackles consistent with heart failure.
Which of the following represents the best treatment option for this patient?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Urgent haemodialysis
Explanation:This case presents with symptoms and lab results suggestive of uremic pericarditis, which is an indication for immediate haemodialysis. Uremic pericarditis is caused by inflammation of the membranes of the pericardial sac, which usually resolves after a period of intensive dialysis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 71
Incorrect
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Which of the following is the site where B-type natriuretic peptide is mainly secreted?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Ventricular myocardium
Explanation:B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is secreted mainly from the left ventricle and it is secreted as a response to stretching caused by increased ventricular blood volume.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular System
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Question 72
Incorrect
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An elderly woman is admitted to the hospital with a community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Her medical notes state that she developed a skin rash after taking penicillin a few years ago. She has a CURB score of 4 and adverse prognostic features. Which of the following would be an appropriate empirical antibiotic choice?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cefotaxime and erythromycin
Explanation:Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the most common infectious diseases and is an important cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Typical bacterial pathogens that cause CAP include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
The CURB-65 is used as a means of deciding the action that is needed to be taken for that patient.
Score 3-5: Requires hospitalization with consideration as to whether they need to be in the intensive care unitRecent studies have suggested that the use of a beta-lactam alone may be noninferior to a beta-lactam/macrolide combination or fluoroquinolone therapy in hospitalized patients.
Therapy in ICU patients includes the following:
– Beta-lactam (ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, or ampicillin/sulbactam) plus either a macrolide or respiratory fluoroquinolone
– For patients with penicillin allergy, a respiratory fluoroquinolone and aztreonamTherefore the appropriate treatment would be Cefotaxime and erythromycin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 73
Incorrect
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Out of the following, which malignant tumour has the highest predilection for dissemination to the bones?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Prostate
Explanation:Prostate cancer is the most common primary tumour that metastasises to the bone.
Most common tumours causing bone metastasis (in descending order):
1. Prostate (32%)
2. Breast (22%)
3. Kidneys (16%)
4. Lungs
5. ThyroidMost common sites of bone metastasis (in descending order):
1. Spine
2. Pelvis
3. Ribs
4. Skull
5. Long bones -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 74
Incorrect
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A 48-year-old artist presented with tremors. Which of the following is more suggestive of parkinsonism than an essential tremor?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Unilaterality
Explanation:Essential tremors are usually symmetrical and generalized. It often affects the head and the voice of the patient. Usually it is first noticed by first degree relatives. It is improved by benzodiazepines and beta blockers. On the other hand, Parkinsonism tends to develop in older patients. It is characterised by bradykinesia and rigidity. It improves by L-dopa and dopamine agonists. A simple test is to ask the patient to write a short sentence. Parkinsonism shows micrographiam whilst essential tremors will have tremulous writing.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 75
Incorrect
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An 80-year-old woman is admitted with a right lower lobe pneumonia. There is consolidation and a moderate sized pleural effusion on the same side. An ultrasound guided pleural fluid aspiration is performed. The appearance of the fluid is clear and is sent off for culture. Whilst awaiting the culture results, which one of the following is the most important factor when determining whether a chest tube should be placed?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: pH of the pleural fluid
Explanation:In adult practice, biochemical analysis of pleural fluid plays an important part in the management of pleural effusions. Protein levels or Light’s criteria differentiate exudates from transudates, while infection is indicated by pleural acidosis associated with raised LDH and low glucose levels. In terms of treatment, the pH may even guide the need for tube drainage, suggested by pH <7.2 in an infected effusion, although the absolute protein values are of no value in determining the likelihood of spontaneous resolution or chest drain requirements. pH is therefore the most important factor.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 76
Incorrect
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A 61-year old mechanic recently attended A&E, with a 3 month history of bilateral paresthesia and twitching affecting the thumb, first finger and lateral forearm. He denied any trauma. An MRI scan of his spine was performed and revealed cervical canal stenosis with mild cord compression. He was discharged and advised to see his GP for follow-up. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in management?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Refer to spinal surgery services
Explanation:Bilateral median nerve dysfunction is suggestive of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) rather than bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. DCM should be suspected in elderly patients presenting with limb neurology. This patient’s twitches are probably fibrillations, a sign of lower motor neuron dysfunction.
Degenerative cervical myelopathy is associated with a delay in diagnosis. It is most commonly misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. In one study, 43% of patients who underwent surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy had been initially diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Management of these patients should be by specialist spinal services (neurosurgery or orthopaedic spinal surgery). Decompressive surgery is the mainstay of treatment and has been shown to stop disease progression. Physiotherapy and analgesia do not replace surgical opinion, though they may be used alongside. Nerve root injections do not have a role in management. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 77
Incorrect
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A 3-year-old boy presents with recurrent urinary tract infections. What is the most common cause for this problem in a child of this age?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Vesicoureteric reflux
Explanation:Vesicoureteral reflux is the condition when the urine flows backwards from the bladder into the kidneys, which is the most common cause of UTI in patients this age.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 78
Incorrect
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A 25-year-old woman with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (type 1) asks how likely it is that any future children will have the disease. What is the most accurate answer?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 0.5
Explanation:Because Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (type 1) is an autosomal dominant condition; therefore, there is a 50% chance that the children of this patient will be affected.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 79
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old male presents to the emergency with acute onset breathlessness. He underwent a total hip replacement 7 days back. On examination, the JVP is raised. Which other investigation would be most helpful in leading to an accurate diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: CTPA
Explanation:The most pertinent diagnosis suspected in this case would be a pulmonary embolism considering the recent surgical history and acute onset of breathlessness. A CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) is a medical diagnostic test that employs computed tomography (CT) angiography to obtain an image of the pulmonary arteries. Its main use is to diagnose pulmonary embolism (PE).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 80
Incorrect
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A 53-year-old gentleman presents with several months' history of generalised swelling, fatigue, dyspnoea and several episodes of haemoptysis. There is no significant past medical history and he did not take any regular medication. He smokes 20 cigarettes per day and drinks 14 units of alcohol per week.
On examination, he is grossly oedematous and has ascites. Cardiorespiratory examination is unremarkable and there are no neurological signs or rashes.
Investigation results are below:
Haemoglobin (Hb) 10.2 g/dl
White cell count (WCC) 6.0 × 109/l
Platelets 380 × 109/l
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 90fl
Na+ 145 mmol/l
K+ 3.7 mmol/l
Urea 8.2 mmol/l
Bilirubin 16 μmol/l
Creatinine 180 μmol/l
Albumin 22 g/l
Aspartate transaminase 32 iu/l
Alkaline phosphatase 120 iu/l
Urinalysis: Protein +++
24 h urinary protein excretion: 5g
Chest radiograph: Enlarged right hilum
Echocardiogram: Mild left ventricular impairment, no valve lesion
Abdominal ultrasound scan: Normal-sized kidneys, no abnormality seen
A renal biopsy was performed. What is it most likely to show?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Thickened glomerular basement membrane with deposits of IgG and C3
Explanation:Renal biopsy in this patient will most likely show thickened glomerular basement membrane with deposits of IgG and C3 as a result of membranous glomerulonephritis that has caused the nephrotic syndrome in this patient. Membranous glomerulonephritis in this case is most likely associated with an underlying bronchial carcinoma, consistent with the patient’s smoking history and physical presentation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 81
Incorrect
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A 73-year-old gentleman with type 2 diabetes mellitus, complains of difficulty walking and trouble with his hands. It began with a tingling sensation in his soles, which later extended up to his ankles. He now feels unsteady when walking, and more recently, has noticed numbness and tingling in the fingers of both hands.
On examination, he has absent ankle reflexes, a high steppage gait, and altered sensation to his mid-calves.
What is the underlying pathological process?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Axonal degeneration
Explanation:This case presents with sensorimotor neuropathy secondary to his DM. The progression of the neuropathy, known dying-back neuropathy, is a distal axonopathy or axonal degeneration as where the sensorimotor loss begins distally and travels proximally.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 82
Incorrect
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A diagnosed case of scabies presented in OPD for some medical advice. Which of the following statements best suits scabies?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: It causes itchiness in the skin even where there is no obvious lesion to be seen
Explanation:Scabies is an infection caused by a microscopic mite known as Sarcoptes scabies. The chief presenting complaint is itching especially in skin folds and mostly during night. It spreads from one person to another through skin contact, and therefore it is more prevalent in crowded areas like hospitals, hostels and even at homes where people live in close contact with each other. Treatment options include benzyl benzoate, ivermectin, sulphur and permethrin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- The Skin
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Question 83
Incorrect
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Which one of the following is the most common type of Hodgkin lymphoma?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Nodular sclerosing
Explanation:The most common type of Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) is nodular sclerosing.
HL is a malignant proliferation of lymphocytes characterised by the presence of distinctive giant cells known as Reed-Sternberg cells. It has a bimodal age distribution being most common in the third and seventh decades of life.
According to the histological classification, there are four types of HL:
1. Nodular sclerosing: most common (around 70%), more common in women, associated with lacunar cells, good prognosis
2. Mixed cellularity: Around 20%, associated with a large number of Reed-Sternberg cells, good prognosis
3. Lymphocyte-predominant: Around 5%, Reed-Sternberg cells with nuclei surrounded by a clear space found, best prognosis
4. Lymphocyte-depleted: rare, worst prognosis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 84
Incorrect
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A 38-year-old musician presented with a two-day history of sudden-onset occipital headache associated with nausea and vomiting. The next day, his right hand became weak for a few hours. On the same day he had an episode of sensory disturbance in his right upper limb consisting of tingling in his hand that spread up the arm, to his shoulder lasting less than two minutes in total. On the day of admission he had a similar episode of sensory disturbance lasting 30 seconds in total. On examination he had bilateral papilledema, no neck stiffness and an otherwise normal neurological examination. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Venous sinus thrombosis
Explanation:Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is associated with headache (>90% of cases), seizures, focal weakness (40%) and papilledema (40%), all seen in this patient.
Risk factors for CVST include genetic or acquired prothrombotic disorders, pregnancy, the oral contraceptive pill, vasculitis, malignancy, dehydration and infection. However, there are multiple other associated factors.
Diagnosis is normally confirmed with magnetic resonance venography (MRV). Treatment is with anticoagulation, initially with heparin and subsequently with warfarin. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 85
Incorrect
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An 18-year-old male was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis, confirmed on lumbar puncture. After 6 months he presents in the infectious clinic with a second episode of meningitis. His past history is clear and he takes no regular medication. Which of the following is most probably deficient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: C5
Explanation:Pneumococcal meningitis is the most common and severe form of bacterial meningitis. Fatality rates are substantial, and long-term sequelae develop in about half of survivors. Disease outcome has been related to the severity of the proinflammatory response in the subarachnoid space. The complement system, which mediates key inflammatory processes, has been implicated as a modulator of pneumococcal meningitis disease severity in animal studies. C5 fragment levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with bacterial meningitis correlated with several clinical indicators of poor prognosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 86
Incorrect
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A 34-year-old diabetic male is undergoing contrast radiography. What should you do to make sure that renal damage due to the contrast dye is prevented?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Plenty of fluids
Explanation:The risk of kidney damage during this procedure is greatly increased for a diabetic patient. It is therefore important that plenty of fluids are given to prevent dehydration and therefore damage to the kidneys.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 87
Incorrect
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A 60-year-old man presents with asymptomatic enlargement of his cervical lymph nodes. Full blood count shows low-grade anaemia, leukocytosis, and thrombocytopenia. Lymph node biopsy is suggestive of a low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Which two of the following statements fit best with this condition?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Extra-nodal presentation is more common than in Hodgkin's disease
Explanation:Extra-nodal presentation is more common in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) than in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Bone marrow infiltration is more common in low-grade than in high-grade NHLs.
Low-grade NHL is predominantly a disease of older people. Most present with advanced disease, bone marrow infiltration being almost invariable. Anaemia, leucocytosis, and/or thrombocytopaenia in a patient are suggestive of bone marrow involvement. For definitive diagnosis, lymph node biopsy is sufficient.
The other aforementioned statements are ruled out because:
1. Renal impairment in NHL usually occurs as a consequence of ureteric obstruction secondary to intra-abdominal or pelvic lymph node enlargement.2. Burkitt lymphoma is a high-grade NHL, which was first described in children in West Africa who presented with a jaw tumour, extra-nodal abdominal involvement, and ovarian tumours. It develops most often in children or young adults and is uncommon in older people.
3. High-grade lymphomas are potentially curable. They have a better prognosis and are responsive to chemotherapy unlike low-grade lymphomas, which are incurable with conventional therapy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 88
Incorrect
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A 71-year-old woman with a medical history of a blood transfusion in the early 1980s presents with a 10 month history of malaise and is noted to have impaired renal function. Her urine sediment reveals red cell casts.
The results of immunological investigations are as follows: serum IgG 6.5 g/L (normal range 6-13), IgA 1.5 g/L (normal range 0.8-4.0), IgM 5.7 g/L (normal range 0.4-2.0), serum electrophoresis shows a faint band in the gamma region, complement C3 1.02 g/L (normal range 0.75-1.65), complement C4 <0.02 g/L (normal range 0.20-0.65), and rheumatoid factor 894 IU/L (normal range <40).
Which of the following investigations is likely to be most important in making a definitive diagnosis?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cryoglobulins
Explanation:The patient’s history of a blood transfusion and lab results showing a markedly low C4 (with normal C3), elevated rheumatoid factor, and elevated serum IgM is highly suggestive of hepatitis C-associated cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis. Testing for Cryoglobulins will confirm this suspicion.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 89
Incorrect
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Ciprofloxacin is used to treat many infectious diseases. It acts by which of the following mechanisms?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Interference with DNA replication
Explanation:Ciprofloxacin disturbs the functioning of DNA gyrase and interferes in the DNA replication process.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 90
Incorrect
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A 65-year-old man is referred to the oncology clinic with progressively worsening lower back pain for the last three months and history of weight loss for the past eight months. MRI lumbar spine confirms the suspicion of bone metastasis.
What is the most likely primary tumour?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Prostate carcinoma
Explanation:Prostate cancer is the most common primary tumour that metastasises to the bone.
Most common tumours causing bone metastasis (in descending order):
1. Prostate (32%)
2. Breast (22%)
3. Kidneys (16%)
4. Lungs
5. ThyroidMost common sites of bone metastasis (in descending order):
1. Spine
2. Pelvis
3. Ribs
4. Skull
5. Long bones -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 91
Incorrect
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Which of the following is correct regarding toxoplasmosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Can present with fits in patients with AIDS
Explanation:T. gondii infection in immunocompetent people is usually asymptomatic. It can present as fits in patients with AIDs, who are immunosuppressed. Additionally, infection in the first trimester of pregnancy is very harmful. Congenital toxoplasmosis presents with intracranial calcifications, classically. It can also present with hydrocephalus, microcephaly, blindness, petechiae. Siramycin is the drug of choice to try to prevent vertical transmission from mother to baby. It is typically gotten from cat faeces or raw/undercooked meat, not raw eggs (raw eggs: think salmonella).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 92
Incorrect
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A 68-year-old woman with contralateral hemisensory loss presents with severe burning pain in this area. In which of the following areas has arterial occlusion most probably occurred?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Thalamogeniculate artery
Explanation:The woman’s clinical evolution suggests that there was a thalamic stroke in the contralateral hemisphere. The artery most likely affected is the thalamogeniculate artery. Sensory loss is usually unilateral and presents at the opposite side of the brain lesion. This kind of stroke can result in severe burning pain which is responsive to tricyclics.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nervous System
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Question 93
Incorrect
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A 65-year-old retired postman has been complaining of a two-month history of lethargy associated with dyspnoea. He has never smoked and takes no medication. The chest X-ray shows multiple round lesions increasing in size and numbers at the base. There is no hilar lymphadenopathy.
What condition does he most likely have?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulmonary metastases
Explanation:Pulmonary metastasis is seen in 20-54% of extrathoracic malignancies. The lungs are the second most frequent site of metastases from extrathoracic malignancies. Twenty percent of metastatic disease is isolated to the lungs. The development of pulmonary metastases in patients with known malignancies indicates disseminated disease and places the patient in stage IV in TNM (tumour, node, metastasis) staging systems.
Chest radiography (CXR) is the initial imaging modality used in the detection of suspected pulmonary metastasis in patients with known malignancies. Chest CT scanning without contrast is more sensitive than CXR.
Breast, colorectal, lung, kidney, head and neck, and uterus cancers are the most common primary tumours with lung metastasis at autopsy. Choriocarcinoma, osteosarcoma, testicular tumours, malignant melanoma, Ewing sarcoma, and thyroid cancer frequently metastasize to lung, but the frequency of these tumours is low. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 94
Incorrect
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A 15-year-old boy was admitted to the ED with a history of sudden onset chest pain and difficulty in breathing after strenuous exercise. On examination, there was reduced breath sounds on the right side but he was not cyanosed. He maintained oxygen sats of 93% on air. What is the single most appropriate investigation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: CXR
Explanation:The history and examination is suggestive of a spontaneous pneumothorax. The best investigation that can be performed at this stage is a CXR. Spontaneous primary pneumothorax occurs in the absence of a known lung pathology. Proposed risk factors shown to predispose patients to primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) include smoking, family history, Marfan syndrome, homocystinuria, and thoracic endometriosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Emergency & Critical Care
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Question 95
Incorrect
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A 35-year-old female complains of headache at the back of her head that has been occurring for several days and pain on neck flexion. She works as a housemaid. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her presentation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cervical spondylosis
Explanation:Cervical spondylosis is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in your neck. As the disks dehydrate and shrink, signs of osteoarthritis develop, including bony projections along the edges of bones (bone spurs). Cervical spondylosis is very common and worsens with age.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 96
Incorrect
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Which of the following would be the most appropriate treatment (leaving out the current NICE guidelines) for a 29-year-old man with erythrodermic psoriasis and arthritis mutilans involving several digits of both hands?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Etanercept
Explanation:TNF-alpha inhibitors are known to ameliorate the symptoms and disease activity of Arthritis mutilans (a rare and severe form of psoriatic arthritis), by disabling the cytokines that are involved in inflammation and joint destruction. From the mentioned choices, this would be the most effective option. Methotrexate is the most commonly used DMARD, followed by sulfasalazine used in mild to moderate forms of psoriatic arthritis but has not shown much efficacy in arthritis mutilans. Phototherapy, narrowband UVB light therapy can be very effective in clearing skin lesions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal System
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Question 97
Incorrect
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A 68-year-old man is admitted with an infective exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Investigations: blood gas taken whilst breathing 28% oxygen on admission:
pH 7.30
p(O2) 7.8 kPa
p(CO2) 7.4 kPa
Which condition best describes the blood gas picture?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Decompensated type-2 respiratory failure
Explanation:The normal partial pressure reference values are:
– PaO2 more than 80 mmHg (11 kPa)
– PaCO2 less than 45 mmHg (6.0 kPa).
This patient has an elevated PaCO2 (7.4kPa)
Hypoxemia (PaO2 <8kPa) with hypercapnia (PaCO2 >6.0kPa).
The pH is also lower than 7.35 at 7.3Type 2 respiratory failure is caused by inadequate alveolar ventilation; both oxygen and carbon dioxide are affected. Defined as the build-up of carbon dioxide levels (PaCO2) that has been generated by the body but cannot be eliminated. The underlying causes include:
– Increased airways resistance (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, suffocation)
– Reduced breathing effort (drug effects, brain stem lesion, extreme obesity)
– A decrease in the area of the lung available for gas exchange (such as in chronic bronchitis)
– Neuromuscular problems (Guillain-Barre syndrome, motor neuron disease)
– Deformed (kyphoscoliosis), rigid (ankylosing spondylitis), or flail chest. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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Question 98
Incorrect
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Of the following disorders, which one causes acute tubular damage?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Myoglobinuria
Explanation:Myoglobinuria is the condition when there is degeneration of necrosed muscle that it is excreted in the urine. This condition would then cause acute tubular damage leading to renal failure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 99
Incorrect
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A 41-year-old gentleman underwent kidney transplantation for end-stage renal disease. Now, 2 months after the operation, he has developed fever and features suggestive of bilateral diffuse interstitial pneumonia.
What is the most likely etiological cause?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cytomegalovirus
Explanation:After renal transplantation, cytomegalovirus has been identified to affect 1/4 of the post-op patients. It is the most common viral infection causing morbidity and mortality in post-op patients in the first 3 months.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Renal System
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Question 100
Incorrect
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A 66-year-old man with newly-diagnosed small cell carcinoma discusses his further treatment options with the team of doctors.
Which statement is incorrect about small cell carcinoma?Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Patients with small cell lung cancer always benefit from surgery
Explanation:Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is characterized by rapid growth and early dissemination. Prompt initiation of treatment is important.
Patients with clinical stage Ia (T1N0) after standard staging evaluation may be considered for surgical resection, but combined treatment with chemotherapy and radiation therapy is the standard of care. Radiation therapy is often added at the second cycle of chemotherapy.
Historically, patients undergoing surgery for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) had a dismal prognosis. However, more recent data suggest that patients with true stage I SCLC may benefit from surgical resection.
Common sites of hematogenous metastases include the brain, bones, liver, adrenal glands, and bone marrow. The symptoms depend upon the site of spread.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory System
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
