00
Correct
00
Incorrect
00 : 00 : 00
Session Time
00 : 00
Average Question Time ( Mins)
  • Question 1 - A 55- year old male patient with cancer of the head of the...

    Incorrect

    • A 55- year old male patient with cancer of the head of the pancreas was to undergo whipple's operation to have the tumour removed. During the surgery, the surgeon had to ligate the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery to stop blood supply to the head of the pancreas. Which of the following arteries does the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery branch from?

      Your Answer: Gastroduodenal artery

      Correct Answer: Superior mesenteric artery

      Explanation:

      The inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery is a branch of the superior mesenteric artery or from the first intestinal branch of the superior mesenteric artery. Once given off, it runs to the right between the pancreatic head and the duodenum and then ascends to form an anastomosis with the superior pancreaticoduodenal artery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      34.2
      Seconds
  • Question 2 - The nutcracker effect of the alimentary canal is described as a nutcracker-like compression...

    Correct

    • The nutcracker effect of the alimentary canal is described as a nutcracker-like compression caused by the aorta and the superior mesenteric arteries on a certain section of the alimentary canal leading to bowel obstruction. Which of the following parts of the alimentary canal is usually obstructed by this nutcracker compression of the two arteries?

      Your Answer: Duodenum

      Explanation:

      The ‘nutcracker effect’ is only seen in one part of the alimentary canal, and that is in the third part of the duodenum. This can happen when the superior mesenteric artery that passes across the duodenum and the aorta, posteriorly to the third part of the duodenum enlarges and starts compressing the duodenum. The result is an obstructed duodenum that inhibits passage of food.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      91
      Seconds
  • Question 3 - Production of pain is most likely associated with: ...

    Incorrect

    • Production of pain is most likely associated with:

      Your Answer: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

      Correct Answer: Substance P

      Explanation:

      Substance P is a short-chain polypeptide that functions as a neurotransmitter and as a neuromodulator, and is thus, a neuropeptide. It has been linked with pain regulation, mood disorders, stress, reinforcement, neurogenesis, respiratory rhythm, neurotoxicity, nausea and emesis. It is also a potent vasodilator as it brings about release of nitric oxide from the endothelium. Its release can also cause hypotension.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      22.6
      Seconds
  • Question 4 - Which of the following diseases affects young adults, causing pain in any bone...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following diseases affects young adults, causing pain in any bone -particularly long bones- which worsens at night, and is typically relieved by common analgesics, such as aspirin?

      Your Answer: Primary osteogenic sarcoma

      Correct Answer: Osteoid osteoma

      Explanation:

      Osteoid osteoma, which tends to affect young adults, can occur in any bone but is most common in long bones. It can cause pain (usually worse at night) that is typically relieved by mild analgesics, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. X-ray findings include a small radiolucent zone surrounded by a larger sclerotic zone.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      51.2
      Seconds
  • Question 5 - A 40-year old lady presented to the hospital with fever and mental confusion...

    Incorrect

    • A 40-year old lady presented to the hospital with fever and mental confusion for 1 week. On examination, she was found to have multiple petechiae all over her skin and mucosal surfaces. Blood investigations revealed low platelet count and raised urea and creatinine. A platelet transfusion was carried out, following which she succumbed to death. Autopsy revealed pink hyaline thrombi in myocardial arteries. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

      Correct Answer: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

      Explanation:

      Hyaline thrombi are typically associated with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), which is caused by non-immunological destruction of platelets. Platelet transfusion is contraindicated in TTP. Platelets and red blood cells also get damaged by loose strands of fibrin deposited in small vessels. Multiple organs start developing platelet-fibrin thrombi (bland thrombi with no vasculitis) typically at arteriocapillary junctions. This is known as ‘thrombotic microangiopathy’. Treatment consists of plasma exchange.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      21.2
      Seconds
  • Question 6 - A 27-year old lady presented with dull, abdominal pain and some pain in...

    Incorrect

    • A 27-year old lady presented with dull, abdominal pain and some pain in her lower limbs. On enquiry, it was revealed that she has been suffering from depression for a few months. Physical examination and chest X-ray were normal. Further investigations revealed serum calcium 3.5 mmol/l, albumin 3.8 g/dl and phosphate 0.65 mmol/l. What is the diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Metastatic carcinoma

      Correct Answer: Parathyroid adenoma

      Explanation:

      Hypercalcaemia with hypophosphatemia indicates parathyroid disorder and adenomas are more common than hyperplasia. In this young age group, metastatic disease is unlikely. Solitary adenomas are responsible for 80-85% cases of primary hyperparathyroidism. 10-15% cases are due to parathyroid hyperplasia and carcinomas account for 2-3% cases. Symptoms include bone pain (bones), nephrolithiasis (stones), muscular aches, peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis (groans), depression (moans), anxiety and other mental disturbances.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Endocrine
      • Pathology
      40.3
      Seconds
  • Question 7 - A 20-year old college student was diagnosed with meningitis that had developed due...

    Incorrect

    • A 20-year old college student was diagnosed with meningitis that had developed due to an acute cavernous sinus thrombosis from an ear infection. Which of the following superficial venous routes is the usual path that an infected blood clot takes to reach the cavernous sinus?

      Your Answer: Lingual vein

      Correct Answer: Facial vein

      Explanation:

      The facial vein is the usual communication between the cavernous sinus and the pterygoid sinus. It is through this vein that an infected clot can travel to the cavernous sinus and cause infection. The pterygoid plexus is a venous plexus that is situated between the temporalis muscle and lateral pterygoid muscle, and partly between the two pterygoid muscles. The pterygoid plexus is connected to the facial vein by the deep facial vein. This connection is what makes this area where this sinus and the facial vein are located a danger zone. The danger zone or triangle of the face is the area from the corners of the mouth to the nose bridge. The sinus connection in this area makes it possible for infection to reach the cavernous sinus and at times cause meningitis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      21.5
      Seconds
  • Question 8 - When a young boy falls on his outstretched hand, he fractures one of...

    Incorrect

    • When a young boy falls on his outstretched hand, he fractures one of the bones at his wrist joint. The doctors told his parents that the fractured bone has special importance as it is that bone that articulates with the distal end of the radius. Which one of the following is it?

      Your Answer: Triquetrum

      Correct Answer: Scaphoid

      Explanation:

      It is the scaphoid bone that articulates with the radius at this level. It is located at the radial side of the wrist and is considered the largest bone in the proximal row of carpal bones. It articulates with the radius via its superior surface. This bone also articulates with trapezium and trapezoid bones via the inferior surface, capitate and lunate medially.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      33.8
      Seconds
  • Question 9 - In an anatomy demonstration, the instructor asked one of the medical students to...

    Incorrect

    • In an anatomy demonstration, the instructor asked one of the medical students to pass his index finger inferior to the root of the left lung. The student notices that his finger is blocked by a structure. Which structure do you think is responsible for this?

      Your Answer: Cupola

      Correct Answer: Pulmonary ligament

      Explanation:

      The pulmonary ligament is dual layer of pleura stretching from the inferior part of the hilar reflection toward the diaphragm.

      The costodiaphragmatic recess is the cavity at the inferior border of the lung where the costal pleura becomes the diaphragmatic pleura.

      The cupola: is part of the pleura that extends superiorly above the first rib and has no association with the root of the lung.

      Inferior vena cava is located in the mediastinum, not near the root of the lung.

      Left pulmonary veins being part of the root of the lung, would not block access to behind the lung. Costomediastinal recess is the part of the pleura where the costal pleura become the mediastinal pleura.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      27.3
      Seconds
  • Question 10 - A space defined by the teres major muscle, the teres minor muscle, long...

    Incorrect

    • A space defined by the teres major muscle, the teres minor muscle, long head of the triceps brachii muscle and surgical neck of the humerus contains the axillary nerve and the?

      Your Answer: Radial nerve

      Correct Answer: Posterior circumflex humeral artery

      Explanation:

      This quadrangular space transmits the posterior circumflex humeral vessels and the axillary nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      20.5
      Seconds
  • Question 11 - Prostatectomy carries a risk of loss of penile erection due to injury to...

    Incorrect

    • Prostatectomy carries a risk of loss of penile erection due to injury to the prostatic plexus responsible for an erection. From which nerves do these fibres originate?

      Your Answer: Pudendal

      Correct Answer: Pelvic splanchnics

      Explanation:

      Erection is a function of the parasympathetic nerves. Of the nerves listed, only the pelvic splanchnic nerves have parasympathetic fibres that innervate the smooth muscles and glands of the pelvic viscera.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      14.7
      Seconds
  • Question 12 - What is the correct order of structures a needle must pass before it...

    Correct

    • What is the correct order of structures a needle must pass before it enters the pleural cavity?

      Your Answer: External intercostals – internal intercostals – innermost intercostals – parietal pleura

      Explanation:

      The correct order of structures from superficial to deep are: the skin and subcutaneous tissue, the external intercostals followed by internal intercostals, innermost intercostals and finally parietal pleura.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      21.6
      Seconds
  • Question 13 - Most of the coagulation factors are serine proteases. Which of the following is...

    Incorrect

    • Most of the coagulation factors are serine proteases. Which of the following is not one of them?

      Your Answer: Factor IX

      Correct Answer: Factor XIII

      Explanation:

      Serine protease coagulation factors include: thrombin, plasmin, Factors X, XI and XII. Factor VIII and factor V are glycoproteins and factor XIII is a transglutaminase.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      5
      Seconds
  • Question 14 - The chest X-ray of a 72 year old patient reveals the presence of...

    Incorrect

    • The chest X-ray of a 72 year old patient reveals the presence of a round lesion containing an air-fluid level in the left lung. These findings are most probably suggestive of:

      Your Answer: Bronchiectasis

      Correct Answer: Lung abscess

      Explanation:

      Lung abscesses are collections of pus within the lung that arise most commonly as a complication of aspiration pneumonia caused by oral anaerobes. Older patients are more at risk due to poor oral hygiene, gingivitis an inability to handle their oral secretions due to other diseases. Chest X-ray most commonly reveals the appearance of an irregularly shaped cavity with an air-fluid level.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Respiratory
      26.5
      Seconds
  • Question 15 - Which of the following can occur even in the absence of brainstem co-ordination?...

    Correct

    • Which of the following can occur even in the absence of brainstem co-ordination?

      Your Answer: Gastric emptying

      Explanation:

      Although gastric emptying is under both neural and hormonal control, it does not require brainstem co-ordination. Increased motility of the orad stomach (decreased distensibility) or of the distal stomach (increased peristalsis), decreased pyloric tone, decreased duodenal motility or a combination of these, all increase the rate of gastric emptying. The major control mechanism for gastric emptying is through duodenal gastric feedback. The duodenum has receptors for the presence of acid, carbohydrate, fat and protein digestion products, osmolarity different from that of plasma, and distension. Activating these receptors decreases the rate of gastric emptying. Neural mechanisms involve both enteric and vagal pathways and a vagotomy impairs the gastric emptying regulation. CCK (cholecystokinin) slows gastric emptying at physiological levels of the hormone. Gastrin, secretin and glucose-1-phosphate also slow gastric emptying, but require higher doses.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      24.4
      Seconds
  • Question 16 - Which of the following malignancies is associated with the development of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic...

    Correct

    • Which of the following malignancies is associated with the development of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?

      Your Answer: Lung cancer

      Explanation:

      Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome is a rare disorder of the neuromuscular junction. It can occur as a solitary diagnosis but it can also occur as a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with lung cancer, particularly small-cell histology. It can also be associated with other cancers such as lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, T-cell leukaemia, non-small-cell lung cancer, prostate cancer and thymoma.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neoplasia
      • Pathology
      14.4
      Seconds
  • Question 17 - A 42 - year old male patient with an acute onset headache was...

    Incorrect

    • A 42 - year old male patient with an acute onset headache was brought in to the emergency department with suspicion of a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). The SHO on call decided to have a diagnostic lumbar puncture after computed topography scan failed to support the suspicion. To perform a successful lumbar puncture without causing injury to the spine, which anatomical landmark should guide the SHO to locate the fourth vertebra for insertion of the spinal needle?

      Your Answer: Pubic symphysis

      Correct Answer: Iliac crest

      Explanation:

      The safest spinal level for conducting a lumbar puncture, is at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. The anatomical landmark used to locate the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4), is the iliac crest. The needle can safely be inserted either above or below L4. The conus medullaris is at the level of the border of L1 and L2 so L4 is safely distant from it.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      64.1
      Seconds
  • Question 18 - A 40-year old gentleman, known with a history of peptic ulcer disease, was...

    Correct

    • A 40-year old gentleman, known with a history of peptic ulcer disease, was brought to the clinic in a dehydrated state with persistent vomiting. His blood investigations revealed:
      • sodium = 142 mmol/l
      • potassium = 2.6 mmol/l
      • chloride = 85 mmol/l
      • pH = 7.55
      • p(CO2) = 50 mmHg
      • p(O2) = 107 mmHg
      • standard bicarbonate = 40 mmol/l
      This patient has a:

      Your Answer: Metabolic alkalosis

      Explanation:

      High pH with high standard bicarbonate indicates metabolic alkalosis. The pa(CO2) was appropriately low in compensation. This is hypokalaemic hypochloraemic metabolic acidosis due to prolonged vomiting. Treatment includes treating the cause and intravenous sodium chloride with potassium.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      24.4
      Seconds
  • Question 19 - Bile salt reuptake principally occurs where? ...

    Incorrect

    • Bile salt reuptake principally occurs where?

      Your Answer: In the duodenum

      Correct Answer: In the ileum

      Explanation:

      90 – 95% of the bile salts are absorbed from the small intestine (mostly terminal ileum and then excreted again from the liver. This is known as the enterohepatic circulation. The entire pool recycles twice per meal and approximately 6 to 8 times per day.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      28.2
      Seconds
  • Question 20 - A 30-year-old man is brought to the emergency department suffering from extreme dehydration,...

    Incorrect

    • A 30-year-old man is brought to the emergency department suffering from extreme dehydration, and subsequent hypotension and tachycardia. Which part of the kidney will compensate for this loss?

      Your Answer: Distal convoluted tubule

      Correct Answer: Collecting ducts

      Explanation:

      The collecting duct system of the kidney consists of a series of tubules and ducts that physically connect nephrons to a minor calyx or directly to the renal pelvis. The collecting duct system is the last component of the kidney to influence the body’s electrolyte and fluid balance. In humans, the system accounts for 4–5% of the kidney’s reabsorption of sodium and 5% of the kidney’s reabsorption of water. At times of extreme dehydration, over 24% of the filtered water may be reabsorbed in the collecting duct system.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      8
      Seconds
  • Question 21 - A 62-year-old male patient in the intensive care unit was found to have...

    Incorrect

    • A 62-year-old male patient in the intensive care unit was found to have a low serum phosphate level. What is the serum level of phosphate which is considered as normal in adults?

      Your Answer: 0.3-1.3 mmol/l

      Correct Answer: 0.8–1.45 mmol/l

      Explanation:

      After calcium, phosphorus is the most plentiful mineral in the human body. It is an important and vital element which our body needs to complete many physiologic processes , such as filtering waste and repairing cells. Phosphorus helps with bone growth and approximately 85% of phosphate in the body is contained in bone. Phosphate is involved in energy storage, and nerve and muscle production. A normal range of plasma phosphate in adults teenagers generally from 0.8 mmol/l to 1.45 mmol/l. The normal range varies depending on age. Infants and children have higher phosphorus levels because more of this mineral is needed for their normal growth and bone development.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Pathology
      28.8
      Seconds
  • Question 22 - Which of the following statements is true of Colles’ fracture? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following statements is true of Colles’ fracture?

      Your Answer: Involves the ulnar styloid process

      Correct Answer: Is a cause of carpal tunnel syndrome

      Explanation:

      Colles’ fracture is a distal fracture of the radius that is a known cause of carpal tunnel syndrome (compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel). It rarely results in ulnar nerve compression. A Colles’ fracture is extra-articular and does not extend into the wrist joint, otherwise this would make it an intra-articular fracture (Barton’s fracture). The distal fragment in a Colles’ fracture is displaced dorsally, unlike in a Smith’s fracture where the distal fragment is displaced volarly (ventrally). Associated fracture of the ulnar styloid process may occur and is a common associated injury.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      15.6
      Seconds
  • Question 23 - A correct statement about the RECTUM: ...

    Correct

    • A correct statement about the RECTUM:

      Your Answer: It is an important anastomotic site for the portal and caval (systemic) venous systems

      Explanation:

      The rectum is part of the gastrointestinal tract that is continuous above with the sigmoid colon and below with the anal canal. It contains both longitudinal and circular smooth muscles. These are supplied by the enteric nervous system. It is about 12 cm long. It has no sacculations comparable with those of the colon. It has three permanent transverse folds called the valves of Houston. The peritoneum is related to the upper two thirds of the rectum only whereas the lower part is not covered by peritoneum. It is supplied by the superior rectal (hemorrhoidal) branch of the inferior mesenteric artery and the median sacral artery that is a direct branch from the abdominal aorta. It is drained by veins that begin as a plexus that surround the anus. These veins form anastomoses with the portal system (portocaval anastomoses).

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      15.3
      Seconds
  • Question 24 - A blood sample of a 58 year old male patient, who underwent an...

    Incorrect

    • A blood sample of a 58 year old male patient, who underwent an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, was sent to the laboratory. The laboratory technician said that the patient’s blood agglutinates with antisera anti-A and anti-D, while the patient’s serum agglutinates cells of blood group B. What is the blood group of this patient?

      Your Answer: B positive

      Correct Answer: A positive

      Explanation:

      Group A – has only the A antigen on red cells (and B antibody in the plasma)

      Group B – has only the B antigen on red cells (and A antibody in the plasma)

      Group AB – has both A and B antigens on red cells (but neither A nor B antibody in the plasma)

      Group O – has neither A nor B antigens on red cells (but both A and B antibody are in the plasma). Many people also have a so-called Rh factor on the red blood cell’s surface. This is also an antigen and those who have it are called Rh+. A person with Rh– blood does not have Rh antibodies naturally in the blood plasma (as one can have A or B antibodies, for instance) but they can develop Rh antibodies in the blood plasma if they receive blood from a person with Rh+ blood, whose Rh antigens can trigger the production of Rh antibodies. A person with Rh+ blood can receive blood from a person with Rh– blood without any problems. In this scenario the person has blood group A+ as he has A antigen, anti B antibody and Rh antigen

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      20.4
      Seconds
  • Question 25 - The histological exam of a tuberculous granuloma shows a periphery of multinuclear giant...

    Incorrect

    • The histological exam of a tuberculous granuloma shows a periphery of multinuclear giant cells, with a central area of:

      Your Answer: Eosinophilic necrosis

      Correct Answer: Caseous necrosis

      Explanation:

      Granulomas with necrosis tend to have an infectious cause. The chronic infective lesion in this case typically presents with a central area of caseous (cheese-like) necrosis. Foam cells are the fat-laden M2 macrophages seen in atherosclerosis

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Dermatology
      • Pathology
      17.1
      Seconds
  • Question 26 - A 35-year-old woman in her 37th week of pregnancy complains of urinary incontinence....

    Incorrect

    • A 35-year-old woman in her 37th week of pregnancy complains of urinary incontinence. She is most likely to have:

      Your Answer: Functional incontinence

      Correct Answer: Stress incontinence

      Explanation:

      Urinary incontinence is the involuntary excretion of urine from one’s body. It is often temporary and it almost always results from an underlying medical condition. Several types include:

      – Stress incontinence is the voiding of urine following increased abdominal pressure e.g. laughing, coughing, pregnancy etc. It is the most common form of incontinence in women, most commonly due to pelvic floor muscle weakness, physical changes from pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. In men it is a common problem following a prostatectomy. Most lab results such as urine analysis, cystometry and postvoid residual volume are normal.

      – Urge incontinence is involuntary loss of urine occurring for no apparent reason while suddenly feeling the need or urge to urinate. The most common cause of urge incontinence are involuntary and inappropriate detrusor muscle contractions.

      – Functional incontinence – occurs when a person does not recognise the need to go to the toilet, recognise where the toilet is or get to the toilet in time. The urine loss may be large. Causes of functional incontinence include confusion, dementia, poor eyesight, poor mobility, poor dexterity or unwillingness. t

      – Overflow incontinence – sometimes people find that they cannot stop their bladders from constantly dribbling or continuing to dribble for some time after they have passed urine.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      9.9
      Seconds
  • Question 27 - A 45-year old male patient with a long history of alcoholism developed liver...

    Incorrect

    • A 45-year old male patient with a long history of alcoholism developed liver cirrhosis that has led to portal hypertension. Which of the following plexuses of veins is most likely dilated in this patient?

      Your Answer: Uterine plexus

      Correct Answer: Haemorrhoidal plexus

      Explanation:

      The haemorrhoidal plexus or also known as the rectal plexus is a venous plexus that surrounds the rectum. This venous plexus in males communicates anteriorly with the vesical plexus and uterovaginal plexus in females. This venous plexus forms a site of free communication between the portal and systemic venous systems. In the case of portal hypertension this plexus would most likely dilate due to the increased pressure.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      43.4
      Seconds
  • Question 28 - A 42 year old women presents with end stage renal failure and is...

    Incorrect

    • A 42 year old women presents with end stage renal failure and is prepared to receive a kidney from her husband. HLA testing showed that they are not a 100% match and she is given immunosuppressant therapy for this. Three months later when her renal function tests were performed she showed signs of deteriorating renal function, with decreased renal output, proteinuria of +++ and RBCs in the urine. She was given antilymphocyte globulins and her condition reversed. What type of graft did this patient receive?

      Your Answer: Isograft

      Correct Answer: Allograft

      Explanation:

      Allograft describes a graft between two of the same species. As the donor and the recipients are history-incompatible, rejection of the graft is common and is controlled by immunosuppressive drug therapy. Isograft and syngraft are synonymous and referred to a graft transferred between genetically identical individuals e.g. identical twins. In this case rejection is rare as they are history-compatible.

      Autograft refers to transfer of one part of the body to another location.

      Xenograft is transfer of tissue from another species e.g. pig to human in valve replacement surgeries and rejection is very high.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology; Renal
      • Pathology
      27.7
      Seconds
  • Question 29 - Which of the following toxins most likely results in continuous cAMP production, which...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following toxins most likely results in continuous cAMP production, which pumps H2O, sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate into the lumen of the small intestine and results in rapid dehydration?

      Your Answer: Tetanus toxin

      Correct Answer: Cholera toxin

      Explanation:

      The cholera toxin (CTX or CT) is an oligomeric complex made up of six protein subunits: a single copy of the A subunit (part A), and five copies of the B subunit (part B), connected by a disulphide bond. The five B subunits form a five-membered ring that binds to GM1 gangliosides on the surface of the intestinal epithelium cells. The A1 portion of the A subunit is an enzyme that ADP-ribosylates G proteins, while the A2 chain fits into the central pore of the B subunit ring. Upon binding, the complex is taken into the cell via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Once inside the cell, the disulphide bond is reduced, and the A1 subunit is freed to bind with a human partner protein called ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6). Binding exposes its active site, allowing it to permanently ribosylate the Gs alpha subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein. This results in constitutive cAMP production, which in turn leads to secretion of H2O, Na+, K+, Cl−, and HCO3− into the lumen of the small intestine and rapid dehydration. The gene encoding the cholera toxin was introduced into V. cholerae by horizontal gene transfer.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      5.9
      Seconds
  • Question 30 - Which of the following statements regarding aqueous humour is correct? ...

    Correct

    • Which of the following statements regarding aqueous humour is correct?

      Your Answer: Is the only source of nutrients for the lens of the eye

      Explanation:

      The aqueous humour is a transparent, watery fluid similar to plasma, but containing low protein concentrations. It is secreted from the ciliary epithelium and fills both the anterior and the posterior chambers of the eye. It maintains the intraocular pressure and inflates the globe of the eye. It is this hydrostatic pressure which keeps the eyeball in a roughly spherical shape and keeps the walls of the eyeball taut. It provides nutrition (e.g. amino acids and glucose) for the avascular ocular tissues; posterior cornea, trabecular meshwork, lens, and anterior vitreous. It may serve to transport ascorbate into the anterior segment to act as an antioxidant agent. The presence of immunoglobulins indicate its role in immune response to defend against pathogens.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      33.4
      Seconds
  • Question 31 - Which of the following conditions can present with multiple abscesses that may discharge...

    Correct

    • Which of the following conditions can present with multiple abscesses that may discharge sulphur granules?

      Your Answer: Actinomycosis

      Explanation:

      Actinomycosis is primarily caused by any of the several members of the bacterial genus Actinomyces. These bacteria are generally anaerobes. And can cause multiple abscesses that may discharge sulphur granules.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      6.5
      Seconds
  • Question 32 - A 40-year-old woman is suspected to have an ovarian cancer. Which tumour marker...

    Correct

    • A 40-year-old woman is suspected to have an ovarian cancer. Which tumour marker should be requested to confirm the diagnosis?

      Your Answer: CA-125

      Explanation:

      CA-125 is a protein that is used as a tumour marker. This substance is found in high concentration in patients with ovarian cancer. It is the only tumour marker recommended for clinical use in the diagnosis and management of ovarian cancer.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neoplasia
      • Pathology
      28.9
      Seconds
  • Question 33 - A lad involved in a road traffic accident is rushed to casualty where...

    Correct

    • A lad involved in a road traffic accident is rushed to casualty where physical examination reveals that he has limited extension of his right humerus. Which of the following nerves is most likely to have been injured?

      Your Answer: Thoracodorsal nerve

      Explanation:

      Extension of the humerus is a function of the latissimus dorsi. This muscle is supplied by the thoracodorsal nerve which is a branch of the posterior cord of the plexus whose fibres are derived from cranial nerves V, VI and VII.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      12.6
      Seconds
  • Question 34 - A 39-year old female patient was diagnosed with a tumour of the left...

    Incorrect

    • A 39-year old female patient was diagnosed with a tumour of the left adrenal gland. The tumour, which is metastasizing to the adjacent tissues, has already extended to the left suprarenal vein. If the tumour is still spreading, which of the following veins will most likely be affected after the involvement of the left suprarenal vein?

      Your Answer: Inferior mesenteric vein

      Correct Answer: Left renal vein

      Explanation:

      The suprarenal veins or also known as the veins of Warshaw, are the veins that receive blood from the suprarenal glands. These veins receive blood from the medullary venous plexus and the cortex of the adrenal glands (suprarenal glands). They are two in number – the left and the right suprarenal veins. The right suprarenal vein drains into the inferior vena cava while the left suprarenal vein drains into the left renal vein. This therefore means that in the case of a metastasizing tumour involving the left suprarenal vein, the tumour will most likely extend from the left suprarenal vein to the left renal vein into which it drains.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      40.4
      Seconds
  • Question 35 - Which statement is true regarding the diaphragmatic openings: ...

    Incorrect

    • Which statement is true regarding the diaphragmatic openings:

      Your Answer: The aorta passes through the opening at T10

      Correct Answer: The thoracic duct passes through the opening at T12

      Explanation:

      The diaphragmatic openings are:

      T8 – opening for the inferior vena cavaand the right phrenic nerve

      T10 – opening for the oesophagusand the left gastric artery and vein

      T12 – opening for the aorta, the thoracic duct and azygos vein.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      7.4
      Seconds
  • Question 36 - Which statement is correct regarding secretions from the adrenal glands? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which statement is correct regarding secretions from the adrenal glands?

      Your Answer: Cortisol is produced by the zona glomerulosa

      Correct Answer: Aldosterone is producd by the zona glomerulosa

      Explanation:

      The secretions of the adrenal glands by zone are:

      Zona glomerulosa – aldosterone

      Zona fasciculata – cortisol and testosterone

      Zona reticularis – oestradiol and progesterone

      Adrenal medulia – adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      19.7
      Seconds
  • Question 37 - A young lady visited a doctor with complaints of fever and a dull,...

    Incorrect

    • A young lady visited a doctor with complaints of fever and a dull, continuous pain in the right lumbar region for 6 days. On, enquiry, she recalled passing an increasing number of stools with occasional blood in last few months. Lower gastrointestinal endoscopic biopsy was taken 5 cm proximal to ileocaecal valve which showed transmural inflammation with several granulomas. Tissue section showed the absence of acid-fast bacillus. She denies any history of travel and her stool cultures were negative. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Ulcerative colitis

      Correct Answer: Crohn’s disease

      Explanation:

      Crohn’s disease is a chronic, inflammatory disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract but is usually seen in the distal ileum and colon. It is transmural and symptoms include chronic diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever, anorexia and weight loss. On examination, there is usually abdominal tenderness with a palpable mass or fullness seen occasionally. Rectal bleeding is uncommon (except in isolated colonic involvement) which manifests like ulcerative colitis. Differential diagnosis includes acute appendicitis or intestinal obstruction. 25%-33% patients also have perianal disease in the form of fissure or fistulas.

      Extra intestinal manifestations predominate in children, and include: arthritis, pyrexia, anaemia or growth retardation. Histologically, the disease shows crypt inflammation and abscesses initially, which progress to aphthoid ulcers. These eventually develop into longitudinal and transverse ulcers with interspersed mucosal oedema, leading to the characteristic ‘cobblestoned appearance’. Transmural involvement leads to lymphoedema and thickening of bowel wall and mesentery, leading to extension of mesenteric fat on the serosal surface of bowel and enlargement of mesenteric nodes. There can also be hypertrophy of the muscularis mucosae, fibrosis and stricture formation, which can cause bowel obstruction.

      Abscesses are common and the disease can also leas to development of fistulas with various other organs, anterior abdominal wall and adjacent muscles. Pathognomonic non-caseating granulomas are seen in 50% cases and they can occur in nodes, peritoneum, liver, and in all layers of the bowel wall. The clinical course does not depend on the presence of granulomas. There is sharp demarcation between the diseased and the normal bowel (skip areas).

      35% cases show only the ileal involvement, whereas in 45% cases, both the ileum and colon are involved with a predilection for right side of colon. 20% cases show only colonic involvement, often sparing the rectum (unlike ulcerative colitis). In occasional cases, there is jejunoileitis – involvement of the entire small bowel. The stomach, duodenum and oesophagus are rarely involved, although there has been microscopic evidence of disease involving the gastric antrum in younger patients. The affected small bowel segments show increased rick of cancer. Moreover, patients with colonic disease show a long-term risk of cancer similar to that seen in ulcerative colitis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
      • Pathology
      34.2
      Seconds
  • Question 38 - A 34-year-old woman is diagnosed with cerebral oedema after suffering a severe head...

    Incorrect

    • A 34-year-old woman is diagnosed with cerebral oedema after suffering a severe head trauma. Which of the following conditions is not likely to be associated with the extracellular oedema?

      Your Answer: Increased capillary pressure

      Correct Answer: Increased plasma colloid osmotic pressure

      Explanation:

      Cerebral oedema is extracellular fluid accumulation in the brain. Increased capillary permeability, increased capillary pressure, increased interstitial fluid colloid osmotic pressure and lymphatic blockage would increase fluid movement into the interstitial spaces. Increased plasma colloid osmotic pressure, however, would oppose fluid movement from the capillaries into the interstitial compartment.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Physiology
      26
      Seconds
  • Question 39 - Paracentesis of ascetic fluid in a 45-year old woman revealed the following :...

    Correct

    • Paracentesis of ascetic fluid in a 45-year old woman revealed the following : clear, yellow fluid with protein 2.0 g/dl and a few mesothelial and mononuclear cells seen. No malignant cells seen. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Cirrhosis

      Explanation:

      Ascites develops either from:

        • Increased  accumulation
          • Increased capillary permeability
          • Increased venous pressure
          • Decreased protein (oncotic pressure)
        • Decreased clearance
          • Increased lymphatic obstruction

      Cause

      • Transudate (<30g/L protein) (Systemic disease)
        • Liver (Cirrhosis)
        • Cardiac e.g. RHF, CCF, SBE right heart valve disease and constrictive Pericarditis
        • Renal failure
        • Hypoalbuminaemia (nephrosis)
      • Exudate (>30g/L protein) (Local disease)
        • Malignancy
        • Venous obstruction e.g. Budd-Chiari, Schistosomiasis
        • Pancreatitis
        • Lymphatic obstruction
        • Infection (especially TB)

      Cirrhosis is disease of the liver that is characterized by fibrosis leading to disorganization of the hepatic architecture. It shows the development of regenerative nodules surrounded by dense fibrotic tissue. Cirrhosis shows non-specific symptoms initially, which include fatigue, anorexia and weight loss. It can later progress to portal hypertension, ascites and liver failure.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
      • Pathology
      19.6
      Seconds
  • Question 40 - A 70 year old women, died suddenly. She had a history of hypertension...

    Correct

    • A 70 year old women, died suddenly. She had a history of hypertension and aortic stenosis. On autopsy her heart weighed 550g. What is the most likely cause of this pathology?

      Your Answer: Hypertrophy

      Explanation:

      Due to increased pressure on the heart as a result of hypertension and aortic stenosis, the myocardial fibres hypertrophied to adapt to the increased pressure and to effectively circulate blood around the body. Hyperplasia could not occur, as myocardial fibres are stable cells and cannot divide further.

      Fat does not deposit in the heart due to volume overload.

      Myocardial oedema is not characteristic of a myocardial injury.

      Metaplasia is a change in the type of epithelium.

      Atrophy would result in a decreased heart size and inability to function.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Cardiovascular
      • Pathology
      17
      Seconds
  • Question 41 - A cancer patient was found to have a radio resistant tumour. Which tumour...

    Incorrect

    • A cancer patient was found to have a radio resistant tumour. Which tumour does the patient most likely have?

      Your Answer: Adenocarcinoma of breast

      Correct Answer: Liposarcoma

      Explanation:

      Liposarcoma is a cancer that arises in fat cells in deep soft tissue. Commonly it occurs inside the thigh or retroperitoneum. It usually affects middle-aged and older adults, over 40 years. Liposarcoma is the most common soft-tissue sarcoma. It is very radio resistant. Five-year survival rates vary from 100% to 56% based on histological subtype.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neoplasia
      • Pathology
      18.9
      Seconds
  • Question 42 - Which of the following substances will enhance the activity of antithrombin III? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following substances will enhance the activity of antithrombin III?

      Your Answer: Warfarin

      Correct Answer: Heparin

      Explanation:

      Antithrombin III is a glycoprotein that inactivates multiple enzymes involved in the coagulation system. It inactivates factor X, factor IX, factor II, factor VII, factor XI and factor XII. Its activity is greatly increased by the action of heparin.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      6.8
      Seconds
  • Question 43 - A patient is diagnosed with Conn’s syndrome. Aldosterone is secreted from where? ...

    Incorrect

    • A patient is diagnosed with Conn’s syndrome. Aldosterone is secreted from where?

      Your Answer: Liver

      Correct Answer: Zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex

      Explanation:

      The adrenal gland comprises an outer cortex and an inner medulla, which represent two developmentally and functionally independent endocrine glands.

      The adrenal medulla secretes adrenaline (70%) and noradrenaline (30%)

      The adrenal cortex consists of three layers (remembered by the mnemonic GFR):

      G = zona glomerulosa – secretes aldosterone

      F = zona fasciculata – secretes cortisol and sex steroids

      R = zona reticularis – secretes cortisol and sex steroids.

      Aldosterone facilitates the reabsorption of sodium and water and the excretion of potassium and hydrogen ions from the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts. Conn’s syndrome is characterized by increased aldosterone secretion from the adrenal glands.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Endocrine
      • Physiology
      17.6
      Seconds
  • Question 44 - A medical student is told a substance is freely filtered but is not...

    Incorrect

    • A medical student is told a substance is freely filtered but is not metabolised, secreted, or stored in the kidney. It has a plasma concentration of 1000 mg/l and its urine excretion rate is 25 mg/min, and the inulin clearance is 100 ml/min. What is the rate of tubular reabsorption of the substance?

      Your Answer: 25 mg/min

      Correct Answer: 75 mg/min

      Explanation:

      Reabsorption or tubular reabsorption is the process by which the nephron removes water and solutes from the tubular fluid (pre-urine) and returns them to the circulating blood. To calculate the reabsorption rate of substance Z we use the following equation: excretion = (filtration + secretion) – reabsorption. As this substance is freely filtered, its filtration rate is equal to that of inulin. So 25 = (100 + 0) – reabsorption. Reabsorption = 100 – 25 therefore reabsorption = 75 mg/min.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      15.6
      Seconds
  • Question 45 - Which nodes are most likely to be enlarged in a patient complaining of...

    Incorrect

    • Which nodes are most likely to be enlarged in a patient complaining of a boil located on the labia majora?

      Your Answer: Sacral

      Correct Answer: Superficial inguinal

      Explanation:

      The perineum, external genitalia, the labia majora and scrotum drain to the superficial inguinal lymph nodes. In a man, the testes do not drain to the superficial inguinal lymph nodes but rather travel in the spermatic cord and drain into the lumbar nodes. The lumbar nodes drain the internal pelvic organs. The sacral nodes drain the prostrate gland, uterus, vagina, rectum and posterior pelvic wall and the external iliac nodes in turn drain the lower limb. The internal iliac nodes drain the pelvis and gluteal region.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      25.5
      Seconds
  • Question 46 - Which of the following muscles are involved in abduction of the wrist? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following muscles are involved in abduction of the wrist?

      Your Answer: Supinator and extensor pollicis longus

      Correct Answer: Extensor carpi radialis brevis and flexor carpi radialis

      Explanation:

      The muscle of the wrist that cause abduction of the wrist otherwise also know as radial flexion of the wrist are the following:

      -Abductor Pollicis Longus

      -Flexor Carpi Radialis

      -Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus

      -Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      27
      Seconds
  • Question 47 - During a case presentation, a 26 year old is said to have fractured...

    Correct

    • During a case presentation, a 26 year old is said to have fractured his pelvis and shattered his coccyx following a motorbike accident. It is mentioned that he is likely to have lacerated his middle sacral artery from this kind of injury. Where does the middle sacral artery branch from?

      Your Answer: Abdominal aorta

      Explanation:

      The middle sacral artery arises from behind the aorta a little above the point of its bifurcation to descend down in front of L4,5, the sacrum and coccyx.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      6
      Seconds
  • Question 48 - Severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, along with increased serum amylase levels,...

    Incorrect

    • Severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, along with increased serum amylase levels, is seen in which of the following conditions?

      Your Answer: Ectopic pregnancy

      Correct Answer: Pancreatitis

      Explanation:

      The primary test for diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatitis is amylase. Increased plasma levels of amylase can be found in: salivary trauma (including anaesthetic intubation), mumps, pancreatitis and renal failure. However, a rise in the total amylase levels over 10 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) is suggestive of pancreatitis; 5–10 times the ULN may indicate ileus or duodenal disease or renal failure. Lower levels are commonly found in salivary gland disease.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      25.7
      Seconds
  • Question 49 - The operating surgeon notices a structure lying alongside a herniated mass whilst repairing...

    Incorrect

    • The operating surgeon notices a structure lying alongside a herniated mass whilst repairing an indirect inguinal hernia in a female patient. Which structure could this be?

      Your Answer: Iliohypogastric nerve

      Correct Answer: Round ligament of the uterus

      Explanation:

      The main structure traversing the inguinal canal in women is the round ligament. In men, it is the spermatic cord.

      The iliohypogastric nerve innervates the abdominal wall and runs between the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles before piercing the internal oblique at the anterior superior iliac spine to run between the internal and external obliques.

      The inferior epigastric artery is between the peritoneum and the transversus abdominis creating the lateral umbilical fold.

      The ovarian artery and the ovarian vein are branches from the descending aorta and inferior vena cava that supply the ovary in the pelvic cavity.

      The pectineal ligament is a thick fascial layer over the pectineal line of the pubis. It doesn’t traverse the canal.

      The broad ligament if found on the lateral sides of the uterus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      13.7
      Seconds
  • Question 50 - A 19 year old male patient exhibiting signs of shock was brought to...

    Incorrect

    • A 19 year old male patient exhibiting signs of shock was brought to the casualty after he had fallen from the 3rd floor of a building. An examination carried out revealed tenderness on the left mid-posterior axillary line and low blood pressure. Further palpation revealed a large swelling that protruded downward and medially below the left costal margin. X-rays showed that the 9th and the 10th ribs were fractured near their angles. Considering these results, which abdominal organ was likely injured by the fractured ribs.

      Your Answer: Pancreas

      Correct Answer: Spleen

      Explanation:

      The spleen, left kidney, stomach, the splenic flexure of the colon and the suprarenal glands are all in the same quadrant- the left upper quadrant. However, the spleen is the most readily injured organ when there is fracture to the 10th, 11th and the 12th ribs because of its close association with these ribs. This patient exhibits a great indication of a ruptured spleen (tenderness on the left mid and posterior axillary line). The spleen is a thin capsulated organ with a spongy parenchyma, allowing it to bleed profusely in the event of injury. The liver, head of the pancreas and the duodenum are all in the right upper quadrant.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      15
      Seconds
  • Question 51 - Following a bee sting, a women develops a 2cm red, raised, swollen lesion...

    Incorrect

    • Following a bee sting, a women develops a 2cm red, raised, swollen lesion at the site of the sting . Which of the following findings is likely to be seen in this lesion?

      Your Answer: Neutrophilic migration

      Correct Answer: Vasodilation

      Explanation:

      Inflammation is the immediate response of the body towards infections or irritations. The cardinal signs of inflammation are 1. redness/rubor, 2. tumour/swelling, 3.dolar/pain, 4.calor/heat and organ dysfunction (function laesa). Inflammation has 2 components; vascular and cellular. Blood vessels dilate upstream of the inflamed area leading to the rubor and calor and constrict downstream, increasing pressure and causing fluid to leak out of the capillary, resulting in swelling. The cellular component includes infiltration by neutrophils. Leukocyte arrival and functions include; 1. margination: cells marginated from the centre to the periphery of the vessel, 2. rolling: selectins are upregulated on the vessel walls, 3. adhesion: upregulation of the adhesion molecules ICAM and VCAM on the endothelium interact with integrins on the leukocytes resulting in adhesion, 4. diapedesis and chemotaxis: diapedesis is the transmigration of the leukocyte across the endothelium of the capillary and towards a chemotactic product and 5. phagocytosis: engulfing the offending substance/cell.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology
      • Pathology
      32.3
      Seconds
  • Question 52 - A 50-year old lady presented to the clinic with chronic pain in the...

    Incorrect

    • A 50-year old lady presented to the clinic with chronic pain in the abdomen. On physical examination, she was found to be pale. Further investigations revealed a decrease in both serum iron and total iron-binding capacity, along with an increase in serum ferritin. These findings are seen in:

      Your Answer: Vitamin B12 deficiency

      Correct Answer: Anaemia of chronic disease

      Explanation:

      Anaemia of chronic disease is characterized by low serum iron, iron-binding capacity and saturation with increased ferritin (storage iron). Haemolytic anaemia is characterized by normal iron levels as the haemoglobin released from the haemolysed red blood cells is recycled. Anaemia due to chronic blood loss leads to low serum iron, low ferritin and high total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). Malabsorption, especially with duodenal involvement can also lead to iron deficiency anaemia with low ferritin and high TIBC. Megaloblastic anaemia due to vitamin B12 and folate deficiency is not associated with abnormalities in metabolism of iron.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      12.3
      Seconds
  • Question 53 - Where is the foramen ovale located? ...

    Incorrect

    • Where is the foramen ovale located?

      Your Answer: Ethmoid

      Correct Answer: Sphenoid

      Explanation:

      The foramen ovale is an oval shaped opening in the middle cranial fossa located at the posterior base of the greater wing of the sphenoid bone, lateral to the lingula. It transmits the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (CN Vc), accessory meningeal artery, emissary veins between the cavernous sinuses and pterygoid plexus, otic ganglion, and occasionally the nervus spinosus and lesser petrosal nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      12.8
      Seconds
  • Question 54 - Which of these illnesses is most likely to precede Guillain-Barré syndrome? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of these illnesses is most likely to precede Guillain-Barré syndrome?

      Your Answer: Ketoacidosis

      Correct Answer: Viral pneumonia

      Explanation:

      Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is characterized by a rapid-onset muscle weakness caused by the immune system damaging the peripheral nervous system. In about two-thirds of patients, the syndrome begins 5 days to 3 weeks after an infectious disease, surgery or vaccination. Infection is the trigger in over 50% of patients; common pathogens include Campylobacter jejuni, enteric viruses, herpesviruses (including cytomegalovirus and those causing infectious mononucleosis) and Mycoplasma species. The underlying mechanism involves an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves and damages their myelin insulation, although the cause for this is still unknown.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Pathology
      45.9
      Seconds
  • Question 55 - A 35 year-old woman is undergoing thyroidectomy. The external laryngeal nerve may be...

    Incorrect

    • A 35 year-old woman is undergoing thyroidectomy. The external laryngeal nerve may be injured whilst ligating this artery during the procedure due to its close relationship?

      Your Answer: Inferior thyroid artery

      Correct Answer: Superior thyroid artery

      Explanation:

      The superior thyroid artery arises from the external carotid artery just below the level of the greater cornu of the hyoid bone and ends in the thyroid gland. This artery must be ligated at the thyroid when conducting a thyroidectomy. If the artery is severed, but not ligated, it will bleed profusely. In order to gain control of the bleeding, the surgeon may need to extend the original incision laterally to ligate the artery at its origin at the external carotid artery. The external laryngeal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve courses in close proximity to the superior thyroid artery, making it at risk for injury during surgery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      20.3
      Seconds
  • Question 56 - Which of the following coagulation factors cross-links fibrin? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following coagulation factors cross-links fibrin?

      Your Answer: Factor X

      Correct Answer: Factor XIII

      Explanation:

      Factor XIII, also known as fibrin stabilizing factor, is an enzyme of the coagulation cascade that crosslinks fibrin. Deficiency of FXIII may cause bleeding tendency but paradoxically, it may also predispose to thrombosis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      7.9
      Seconds
  • Question 57 - A 45-year-old woman was brought to the emergency department due to fever and...

    Incorrect

    • A 45-year-old woman was brought to the emergency department due to fever and chills. She has a history of recurrent UTI and complains of dysuria and urinary frequency. Urinary white blood cell count is >200 cell/high power field. If urine culture is performed, what is the most likely organism that will grow?

      Your Answer: Pseudomonas aeruginosa

      Correct Answer: Escherichia coli

      Explanation:

      The pathogen that most likely causes recurrent urinary tract infection in young women are E. coli, Enterococcus and Staphylococcus saprophyticus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      26.9
      Seconds
  • Question 58 - A 45-year old farmer was referred to the surgical clinic with complaints of...

    Incorrect

    • A 45-year old farmer was referred to the surgical clinic with complaints of pain in his right hypochondrium. Investigations confirmed the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with malignant ascites. According to you, what is the most likely cause of HCC in this patient?

      Your Answer: Aromatic amines

      Correct Answer: Aflatoxin

      Explanation:

      Aflatoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by the Aspergillus fungus (most often, A. flavus and A. parasiticus). These organisms are common and their native habitat is soil, decaying vegetation and grains. They can contaminate the grain before harvest or after storage, more likely in high-humidity (at least 7%) or high temperature environment of after stressful conditions like drought. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins and also carcinogenic. They get metabolized in the liver to an epoxide, aflatoxin M1. High exposure can lead to acute necrosis, cirrhosis or liver carcinoma. These substances can cause haemorrhage, acute liver damage, oedema, and alteration in digestion, absorption and/or metabolism of nutrients. Although humans are susceptible to these toxins like all other animals, they have a high tolerance level and hence, rarely develop acute aflatoxicosis. However, children are particularly susceptible to exposure leading to growth impairment and delayed development. Chronic exposure carries a high risk of hepatic cancer, due to intercalation of its metabolite aflatoxin M1 into the DNA and alkylation of the bases because of its epoxide moiety.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
      • Pathology
      33.6
      Seconds
  • Question 59 - A young boy fell from a tree, sustaining an injury to the elbow...

    Correct

    • A young boy fell from a tree, sustaining an injury to the elbow area and damaging the nerve behind the medial epicondyle of the humerus. What is the most likely result from that injury?

      Your Answer: Flexion in the distal interphalangeal joint of digit 5

      Explanation:

      The nerve injured in this situation is the ulnar nerve. It passes posterior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus before going between the two heads of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. This nerve supplies the muscles and skin of forearm and hand. At the level of medial epicondyle, the injury will led to paralysis in flexor carpi ulnaris and the ulnar half of the flexor digitorum profundus as well as the palmar interossei and hypothenar muscles in the hand. The correct answer will be that the boy will suffer from inability to flex the distal interphalangeal joint of digit 5

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      18.6
      Seconds
  • Question 60 - Which of the following is a likely consequence of severe diarrhoea? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following is a likely consequence of severe diarrhoea?

      Your Answer: An increase in the chloride content of the body

      Correct Answer: A decrease in the sodium content of the body

      Explanation:

      Diarrhoea can occur due to any of the numerous aetiologies, which include infectious, drug-induced, food related, surgical, inflammatory, transit-related or malabsorption. Four mechanisms have been implicated in diarrhoea: increased osmotic load, increased secretion, inflammation and decreased absorption time. Diarrhoea can result in fluid loss with consequent dehydration, electrolyte loss (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Cl–) and even vascular collapse. Loss of bicarbonate ions can lead to a metabolic acidosis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      40.4
      Seconds
  • Question 61 - Regarding the venous drainage of the heart which of these is correct? ...

    Incorrect

    • Regarding the venous drainage of the heart which of these is correct?

      Your Answer: The coronary sinus drains into the great cardiac vein

      Correct Answer: The great cardiac vein is the largest tributary of the coronary sinus and this vein starts at the apex of the heart and ascends with the anterior ventricular branch of the left coronary artery

      Explanation:

      Most of the veins of the heart open into the coronary sinus. This is a wide venous channel, about 2.25 cm in length, situated in the posterior part of the coronary sulcus and covered by muscular fibres from the left atrium. Its tributaries are the great, small and middle cardiac veins, the posterior vein of the left ventricle and the oblique vein of the left atrium. The great cardiac vein is the largest tributary of the coronary sinus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      11.3
      Seconds
  • Question 62 - Injury to this nerve may result in loss of sensation of the mandibular...

    Incorrect

    • Injury to this nerve may result in loss of sensation of the mandibular teeth and bone:

      Your Answer: Greater palatine nerve

      Correct Answer: Inferior alveolar nerve

      Explanation:

      The inferior alveolar nerve (sometimes called the inferior dental nerve) is a branch of the mandibular nerve, which is itself the third branch of the trigeminal nerve. The inferior alveolar nerves supply sensation to the lower teeth of the mandible.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      12.3
      Seconds
  • Question 63 - The renal cortex and medulla, if seen under the microscope, is lacking one...

    Incorrect

    • The renal cortex and medulla, if seen under the microscope, is lacking one of the following:

      Your Answer: A basement membrane

      Correct Answer: Squamous epithelium

      Explanation:

      Capillaries, Henle’s loop, collecting ducts, Bertin columns and type IV collagen in glomerular basement membrane are all structures present in the renal cortex or medulla. The squamous epithelium is the only one that is lacking in both the renal cortex and medulla, because normally it is not found above the outer urethra.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Renal
      5.4
      Seconds
  • Question 64 - Which of the following diseases is caused by intra-articular and/or extra-articular deposition of...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following diseases is caused by intra-articular and/or extra-articular deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals, due to unknown causes?

      Your Answer: Gout

      Correct Answer: Pseudogout

      Explanation:

      Pseudogout or chondrocalcinosis is a rheumatological disease caused by the accumulation of crystals of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) in the connective tissues. It is frequently associated with other conditions, such as trauma, amyloidosis, gout, hyperparathyroidism and old age, which suggests that it is secondary to degenerative or metabolic changes in the tissues. The knee is the most commonly affected joint. It causes symptoms similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      21.2
      Seconds
  • Question 65 - Out of the given options, which of the following is the most likely...

    Correct

    • Out of the given options, which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in a 25-year old gentleman presenting with a testicular germ cell tumour?

      Your Answer: Embryonal carcinoma

      Explanation:

      Embryonal carcinoma is a non-seminomatous germ cell tumour of the testis, accounting for 25% testicular tumours. Other germ cell tumours include seminoma, teratoma and choriocarcinoma. Embryonal carcinomas are known to occur in men aged 25-35 years, and occasionally in teens. They are rarely seen in ovaries of females. It can spread to the vas deferens and also to the aortic lymph nodes. Embryonal carcinomas are known to have elements of fetal origin such as cartilage. Usually, the main tumour is about 2.5cm long, with an extension of 8-9cm along the testicular cord. Contiguous spread to the testicle is seen in less than 1% cases.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Urology
      24.2
      Seconds
  • Question 66 - A 40-year old Caucasian male came to the hospital with complaints of fatigue...

    Correct

    • A 40-year old Caucasian male came to the hospital with complaints of fatigue and lethargy. On examination, he was found to have raised blood pressure. Urine examination showed >300 mg/dl proteinuria (4+) and 24-hour urine protein 3.5g. No glucose, blood, nitrites, urobilinogen or casts were present in urine. What is the most likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Membranous glomerulonephritis

      Explanation:

      Membranous glomerulonephritis or nephropathy, is a renal disorder with insidious course and usually affects people aged 30-50 years. 85% cases are primary (or idiopathic). The other 15% are secondary to autoimmune conditions like SLE, infections like malaria or hepatitis B, drugs like captopril and NSAIDs, or malignancies (particularly lung or colonic carcinoma). This disease is caused due to circulating immune complexes which are said to form by binding of antibodies to antigens in glomerular basement membrane. This antigens could be endogenous or derived from systemic circulation. This immune complex triggers the complement system, resulting in formation of membrane attack complex (MAC) on glomerular epithelial cells. This further results in release of proteases and oxidants which damage the capillaries making them ‘leaky’. Moreover, the epithelial cells also secrete a mediator to reduce nephron synthesis and distribution.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Renal
      19.4
      Seconds
  • Question 67 - Macrolides are a group of antibiotics commonly used to treat respiratory tract and...

    Incorrect

    • Macrolides are a group of antibiotics commonly used to treat respiratory tract and soft-tissue infections. Which of the following antibiotics is a macrolide?

      Your Answer: Amoxicillin

      Correct Answer: Erythromycin

      Explanation:

      Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used in the treatment of several bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, chlamydia infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and syphilis. It may also be used during pregnancy to prevent Group B streptococcal infection in the new-born.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Pharmacology
      11.4
      Seconds
  • Question 68 - Below which level of the spinal cord will the inferior gluteal nerve be...

    Incorrect

    • Below which level of the spinal cord will the inferior gluteal nerve be unaffected?

      Your Answer: L5

      Correct Answer: S3

      Explanation:

      The inferior gluteal nerve arises from the dorsal divisions of the fifth lumbar and first and second sacral nerves. According to this fact any lesion at or below the S3 will not affect the inferior gluteal nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      11.8
      Seconds
  • Question 69 - Calculate the total peripheral resistance for a patient with a blood pressure of...

    Correct

    • Calculate the total peripheral resistance for a patient with a blood pressure of 130/70 mm HG and cardiac output of 5 litres / min?

      Your Answer: 18 mmHg × min/l

      Explanation:

      Total peripheral resistance = Mean arterial pressure/Cardiac output. And the mean arterial pressure = Diastolic pressure + 1/3 (Systolic pressure – Diastolic pressure), i.e., 70 + 1/3 (130-70) = 90 mmHg. Therefore, total peripheral resistance = 90 mmHg/5 l per min = 18 mmHg × min/l.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      23.2
      Seconds
  • Question 70 - Which nuclei of the posterior grey column of the spinal cord are likely...

    Incorrect

    • Which nuclei of the posterior grey column of the spinal cord are likely affected in a patient who has lost the sensation of pain and temperature?

      Your Answer: Nucleus dorsalis

      Correct Answer: Substantia gelatinosa

      Explanation:

      Substantia gelatinosa is one of the nuclei in the posterior grey column along side other posterior grey column nuclei like the nucleus dorsalis, nucleus proprius, and posteromarginal nucleus. These nuclei are a collection of cells in the posterior grey area found in throughout the spinal cord. The substantia gelatinosa receives direct input from the dorsal nerve roots (sensory), especially from thermoreceptors and nociceptors (receptors for temperature and pain).

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Neurology
      26.2
      Seconds
  • Question 71 - A 29-year-old woman presents to the doctor complaining of cough, shortness of breath,...

    Correct

    • A 29-year-old woman presents to the doctor complaining of cough, shortness of breath, fever and weight loss. Chest X-ray revealed bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymph node enlargement and bilateral pulmonary opacities. Non-caseating granulomas were found on histological examination. The most likely diagnosis is:

      Your Answer: Sarcoidosis

      Explanation:

      Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease of unknown aetiology that affects multiple organs but predominantly the lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes. Systemic and pulmonary symptoms may both be present. Pulmonary involvement is confirmed by a chest X-ray and other imaging studies. The main histological finding is the presence of non-caseating granulomas.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Respiratory
      29
      Seconds
  • Question 72 - A 55-year-old woman complains of pain in the proximal and distal interphalangeal joins,...

    Correct

    • A 55-year-old woman complains of pain in the proximal and distal interphalangeal joins, and back pain which has increased over the last 4 years and worsens after activity. X-rays reveal Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes in her interphalangeal joints and the presence of osteophytes in her spine. What is the most likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Osteoarthritis

      Explanation:

      Osteoarthritis is most common in older adults, predominating in women between the ages of 40 and 70; after this age, men and women are affected equally. It affects an entire joint, with disruption and potential loss of joint cartilage, along with other joint changes, including bone hypertrophy (osteophyte formation). The pain is usually gradual and is worse after activity, with occasional joint swelling. X-ray findings include marginal osteophytes, narrowing of the joint space, increased density of the subchondral bone, subchondral cyst formation, bony remodelling and joint effusions.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      29
      Seconds
  • Question 73 - A lesion involving the lateral portion of the dorsal columns at the level...

    Correct

    • A lesion involving the lateral portion of the dorsal columns at the level of the nape of the neck will most likely affect:

      Your Answer: Vibratory sensations from the ipsilateral arm

      Explanation:

      At the level mentioned in the question, the lateral portion of dorsal columns comprises of the fasciculus cuneatus. Axons carrying the sensations of touch, vibration and proprioception from the ipsilateral arm enter the spinal cord and ascend in the fasciculus cuneatus, synapsing in the nucleus cuneatus of the caudal medulla. Secondary neurons from this nucleus give rise to internal arcuate fibres, which decussate and ascend to the thalamus as the medial lemniscus. Tertiary neurons from there project to the ipsilateral somatosensory cortex. Thus, any damage to the fasciculus cuneatus will result in a deficit in tactile, proprioceptive and vibratory sensations in the ipsilateral arm, and not the contralateral arm.

      Fine motor control of the fingers is mainly carried by the ipsilateral lateral corticospinal tract in the lateral funiculus of the cord. Motor control of the contralateral foot is carried by the ipsilateral corticospinal tract in the lateral funiculus of the cord. Lack of sweating of the face could be produced by interruption of sympathetic innervation. Proprioception from the ipsilateral leg is carried by the fasciculus gracilis in the medial part of the dorsal columns.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      9.6
      Seconds
  • Question 74 - Which of the following will be a seen in a patient with a...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following will be a seen in a patient with a plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level of 14 mU/l (normal < 5 mU/l) and a low T3 resin uptake of 19% (normal 25–35%)?

      Your Answer: Anxiety

      Correct Answer: Periorbital swelling and lethargy

      Explanation:

      Low T3 resin uptake combined with raised TSH is indicative of hypothyroidism. Signs and symptoms include dull expression, facial puffiness, lethargy, periorbital swelling due to infiltration with mucopolysaccharides, bradycardia and cold intolerance. Anxiety, palpitations, tachycardia, raised body temperature, heat intolerance and weight loss are all seen in hyperthyroidism.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Endocrinology
      • Physiology
      19.3
      Seconds
  • Question 75 - One of the following structures is contained in the anterior compartment of the...

    Incorrect

    • One of the following structures is contained in the anterior compartment of the lower leg. Which is it?

      Your Answer: The fibular artery

      Correct Answer: Extensor hallucis muscle

      Explanation:

      The lower leg is made up of four fascial compartments separated from one another by septa that contain the muscles of the lower leg. The four compartments are ; anterior, lateral, deep posterior and superficial posterior compartments.

      These are the compartments and there contents:

      i) Anterior compartment: Tibialis anterior muscle, extensor hallucis longus muscle, extensor digitorum longus muscle, peroneus tertius muscles, deep fibular nerve and anterior tibial blood vessels

      ii) Lateral compartment: Fibularis longus muscle, brevis muscles and superficial fibular nerve

      iii) Deep posterior compartment: Tibialis posterior m., flexor hallucis longus m., flexor digitorum longus m. ,popliteus m. , tibial nerve, posterior tibial artery and posterior tibial vessels such as the fibular artery.

      iv) Superficial posterior compartment: Gastrocnemius m., soleus m., plantaris m., medial sural cutaneous nerve

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      9.9
      Seconds
  • Question 76 - What is the likely course of a pulmonary embolism arising from the leg...

    Incorrect

    • What is the likely course of a pulmonary embolism arising from the leg veins and ending in the apical segmental pulmonary artery that supplies the superior lobe of left lung?.

      Your Answer: Inferior vena cava – left atrium – mitral valve – left ventricle – pulmonary trunk – left pulmonary artery – left superior lobar artery – left apical segmental artery

      Correct Answer: Inferior vena cava – right atrium – tricuspid valve – right ventricle – pulmonary trunk – left pulmonary artery – left superior lobar artery – left apical segmental artery

      Explanation:

      A clot originating in the leg vein will go to the inferior vena cava, into the right atrium, through the tricuspid valve, into the right ventricle, through the pulmonary trunk, into the left pulmonary artery, into the left superior lobar artery and then finally reach the left apical segmental artery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      13.7
      Seconds
  • Question 77 - Which of the following structure forms the floor of the posterior triangle of...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following structure forms the floor of the posterior triangle of the neck:

      Your Answer: Superficial fascia

      Correct Answer: Prevertebral fascia

      Explanation:

      The posterior triangle (or lateral cervical region) is a region of the neck which has the following boundaries:
      Apex: Union of the sternocleidomastoid and the trapezius muscles at the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone
      Anterior: Posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
      Posterior: Anterior border of the trapezius
      Base: Middle one third of the clavicle
      Roof: Investing layer of the deep cervical fascia
      Floor: The anterolateral portion of prevertebral fascia

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      13.2
      Seconds
  • Question 78 - When one is silently counting, what part of his brain will show increased...

    Incorrect

    • When one is silently counting, what part of his brain will show increased regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF)?

      Your Answer: Occipital cortex

      Correct Answer: Supplementary motor area

      Explanation:

      Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) increases in the superior speech cortex (supplementary motor area) during periods of silent counting, whereas speaking aloud will do so in the motor cortex and medial temporal lobe, along with the superior speech cortex.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      15
      Seconds
  • Question 79 - A 55-year old gentleman presented to the doctor with worsening dysphagia for both...

    Incorrect

    • A 55-year old gentleman presented to the doctor with worsening dysphagia for both solids and liquids over 6 months. This was associated with regurgitation of undigested food and occasional chest pain. Barium swallow revealed distal oesophageal dilatation with lack of peristalsis in the distal two-third oesophagus. The likely diagnosis is:

      Your Answer: Oesophageal cancer

      Correct Answer: Achalasia

      Explanation:

      Achalasia is an oesophageal motility disorder where inappropriate contractions in the oesophagus lead to reduced peristalsis and failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter to relax properly in response to swallowing. Classical triad of symptoms include dysphagia to fluids followed by solids, chest pain and regurgitation of undigested food. Other symptoms include belching, hiccups, weight loss and cough. Diagnosis is by:

      – X-ray with a barium swallow or oesophagography : narrowing at the gastroesophageal junction (‘bird/parrot beak’ or ‘rat tail’ appearance) and various degrees of mega-oesophagus (oesophageal dilatation) as the oesophagus is gradually stretched by retained food. Effectiveness of treatment can be measured with a 5-minute timed barium swallow.

      – Manometry – probe measures the pressure waves in different parts of oesophagus and stomach while swallowing.

      – Endoscopy

      – CT scan to exclude other causes like malignancy

      – Pathological examination showing defect in the nerves which control oesophageal motility (myenteric plexus).

      In Chagas disease, there is destruction of ganglion cells by Trypanosoma cruzi.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      31.7
      Seconds
  • Question 80 - A 60-year-old man complains of pain in his left thigh. An X-ray reveals...

    Incorrect

    • A 60-year-old man complains of pain in his left thigh. An X-ray reveals bowing of the affected femur, increased bone density, bony enlargement, abnormal bone architecture with coarse cortical trabeculations, and stress microfractures. Which is the most likely diagnosis in this case?

      Your Answer: Tuberculous osteomyelitis

      Correct Answer: Paget’s disease of bone

      Explanation:

      Paget’s disease of bone is a chronic disorder of the adult skeleton in which bone turnover is accelerated in localised areas, replacing normal matrix with softened and enlarged bone and causing gradual pain and deformity in some cases. It is more predominant in men over the age of 40. Characteristic X-ray findings include increased bone density, abnormal architecture with coarse cortical trabeculation or cortical thickening, bowing and bony enlargement; there might also be stress microfractures of the tibia or femur.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      14.5
      Seconds
  • Question 81 - A 40 year old man suffered severe trauma following an MVA. His BP...

    Incorrect

    • A 40 year old man suffered severe trauma following an MVA. His BP is 70/33 mmhg, heart rate of 140 beats/mins and very feeble pulse. He was transfused 3 units of blood resulting in his BP returning to 100/70 and his heart rate to 90 beats/min. What decreased following transfusion?

      Your Answer: Right atrial pressure

      Correct Answer: Total peripheral resistance

      Explanation:

      The patient is in hypovolemic shock, he is transfused with blood to replace the volume lost. It is important not only to replace fluids but stop active bleeding in resuscitation. Fluid replacement will result in a decreased sympathetic discharge and adequate ventricular filling thus reducing total peripheral resistance and increasing cardiac output and cardiac filling pressures.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      11.3
      Seconds
  • Question 82 - The basilar artery arises from the confluence of which two arteries? ...

    Incorrect

    • The basilar artery arises from the confluence of which two arteries?

      Your Answer: Middle meningeal

      Correct Answer: Vertebral

      Explanation:

      The basilar artery is part of the vertebrobasilar system. It is formed by the confluence of the two vertebral arteries which arise from the subclavian arteries. These two vertebral arteries merge at the level of cranial nerve VI at the junction between the pons and the medulla oblangata to form what is know as the basilar artery. This vertebrobasilar system supplies the upper spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior part of brain.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      21.2
      Seconds
  • Question 83 - Atractyloside is an inhibitor of electron transport chain. It is expected to have...

    Incorrect

    • Atractyloside is an inhibitor of electron transport chain. It is expected to have little or no effect on the functioning of which of the following cell types?

      Your Answer: Parietal cells of the stomach

      Correct Answer: Red blood cells

      Explanation:

      Electron transport chain is a series of electron carriers that are embedded in the mitochondrial membrane. It is the place where ATP is made. Inhibiting the electron transport chain will stop production of ATP. Red blood cells are the only cell in the given option which do not contain ATP.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      9.1
      Seconds
  • Question 84 - Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma do NOT include: ...

    Incorrect

    • Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma do NOT include:

      Your Answer: Hepatitis B

      Correct Answer: Heptitis E

      Explanation:

      Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma include hepatitis B and C, aflatoxin, anabolic steroids, alcohol cirrhosis and primary liver disease.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
      • Pathology
      18.2
      Seconds
  • Question 85 - Which of the following structures lying posterior to the ovary are at risk...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following structures lying posterior to the ovary are at risk of injury in excision of a malignant tumour in the right ovary?

      Your Answer: External iliac artery

      Correct Answer: Ureter

      Explanation:

      The ovaries are two nodular structures situated one on either side of the uterus in relation to the lateral wall of the pelvis and attached to the back of the broad ligament of the uterus, lying posteroinferiorly to the fallopian tubes. Each ovary has a lateral and medial surface. The ureter is at greater risk of iatrogenic injury at this location.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      14.6
      Seconds
  • Question 86 - A 24-year old patient diagnosed with a direct inguinal hernia was scheduled for...

    Incorrect

    • A 24-year old patient diagnosed with a direct inguinal hernia was scheduled for surgery to have the hernia repaired. The hernia was discovered to be protruding through the Hesselbach's triangle (inguinal triangle). Which of the following blood vessels that is a branch of the external iliac artery forms the lateral border of this triangle?

      Your Answer: Internal pudendal

      Correct Answer: Inferior epigastric

      Explanation:

      The inguinal triangle is formed by the following structures; inguinal ligament at the base; inferior epigastric vessels laterally and the lateral border of the rectus sheath medially. This triangle (also known as Hesselebach’s triangle) is where direct inguinal hernias protrude. The inferior epigastric artery is this the branch of the external iliac artery being referred to. All the other blood vessels are branches of the internal iliac artery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      18.2
      Seconds
  • Question 87 - A 29-year-old pregnant woman develops severe hypoxaemia with petechial rash and confusion following...

    Incorrect

    • A 29-year-old pregnant woman develops severe hypoxaemia with petechial rash and confusion following a fracture to her left femur. Which is the most probable cause of these symptoms in this patient?

      Your Answer: Amniotic fluid embolism

      Correct Answer: Fat embolism

      Explanation:

      Fat embolism is a life-threatening form of embolism in which the embolus consists of fatty material or bone marrow particles that are introduced into the systemic venous system. It may be caused by long-bone fractures, orthopaedic procedures, sickle cell crisis, parenteral lipid infusion, burns and acute pancreatitis. Patients with fat embolism usually present with symptoms that include skin, brain, and lung dysfunction.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Pathology
      16
      Seconds
  • Question 88 - The physician suggested lifestyle modification for his patient because his present condition could...

    Correct

    • The physician suggested lifestyle modification for his patient because his present condition could increase his risk for the development of adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus. What is the most common predisposing factor for the development of adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus?

      Your Answer: Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

      Explanation:

      Barret’s oesophagus is attributed primarily to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. The chronic acidic environment damages the squamous epithelial lining of the oesophagus, and subsequently undifferentiated pluripotent stem cells develop into columnar epithelium, this is then known as Barret’s oesophagitis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neoplasia
      • Pathology
      17
      Seconds
  • Question 89 - Glucose is not secreted by the kidneys, and is filtered without a limit....

    Incorrect

    • Glucose is not secreted by the kidneys, and is filtered without a limit. What is the transport maximum for glucose?

      Your Answer: 700 mg/dl

      Correct Answer: 300 mg/dl

      Explanation:

      Transport maximum (or Tm) refers to the point at which increases in concentration do not result in an increase in movement of a substance across a membrane. Glucose is not secreted, thus excretion = filtration – reabsorption. Both filtration and reabsorption are directly proportional to the concentration of glucose in the plasma. However, reabsorption has a transport maximum of about 300 mg/dl in healthy nephrons, while filtration has effectively no limit (within reasonable physiological ranges). So, if the concentration rises above 300 mg/dl, the body cannot retain all the glucose, leading to glucosuria. Glucosuria is nearly always caused by elevated blood glucose levels, most commonly due to untreated diabetes mellitus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      23.8
      Seconds
  • Question 90 - A TRUE statement regarding abolition of the cephalic phase of pancreatic secretion is...

    Incorrect

    • A TRUE statement regarding abolition of the cephalic phase of pancreatic secretion is that it:

      Your Answer: Is not possible

      Correct Answer: Will result after vagotomy

      Explanation:

      Recognition and integration of the sight, smell and taste of food triggers the cephalic phase of pancreatic secretion, causing an increase in pancreatic HCO3- and enzyme secretion. The degree of enzyme secretion in this phase is about 50% of the maximal response seen with exogenous CCK and secretin. The vagus nerve regulates the secretion through the cholinergic fibres innervating the acinar cells of the pancreas, and through peptidergic nerve fibres, which innervate ductal cells.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      18.9
      Seconds
  • Question 91 - The proximal tubule is the portion of the ductal system of the nephron of the kidney which leads from Bowman's capsule to the loop...

    Incorrect

    • The proximal tubule is the portion of the ductal system of the nephron of the kidney which leads from Bowman's capsule to the loop of Henle. Which of the following is most likely to be seen in a sample of fluid leaving the proximal tubule?

      Your Answer: It will have similar pH to that in ureter

      Correct Answer: It will have no amino acids

      Explanation:

      The proximal tubule is the portion of the duct system of the nephron leading from Bowman’s capsule to the loop of Henlé. The most distinctive characteristic of the proximal tubule is its brush border (or ‘striated border’). The luminal surface of the epithelial cells of this segment of the nephron is covered with densely packed microvilli forming a border which greatly increases the luminal surface area of the cells, presumably facilitating their reabsorptive function. Glucose, amino acids, inorganic phosphate, and some other solutes are100% reabsorbed via secondary active transport through co-transporters driven by the sodium gradient out of the nephron.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Renal
      26.8
      Seconds
  • Question 92 - An elderly, diabetic man has firm, tender nodules at the base of his...

    Correct

    • An elderly, diabetic man has firm, tender nodules at the base of his left middle and ring fingers, which he can't extend fully. What's the most likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Fibromatosis

      Explanation:

      This case is suggestive of Dupuytren’s contracture due to palmar fibromatosis. Its incidence is higher in men over the age of 45 years, and it increases in patients with diabetes, alcoholism, or epilepsy. These nodules are benign, usually appearing as a tender nodule in the palm which becomes painless. The disease has an aggressive clinical behaviour and recurs frequently.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      14.5
      Seconds
  • Question 93 - A 60-year old woman who has a left sided post-pneumonic effusion, was to...

    Incorrect

    • A 60-year old woman who has a left sided post-pneumonic effusion, was to have some pleural fluid aspirated for culture and sensitivity. If the medical intern in charge of the procedure decided to aspirate while the patient is sitting up on her bed, where in the pleural cavity would the fluid tend to accumulate?

      Your Answer: Hilar reflection

      Correct Answer: Costodiaphragmatic recess

      Explanation:

      The lowest part of the pleural cavity is the costodiaphragmatic recess and it the space in which the pleural fluid will accumulate when the patient sits up.

      The cupola is part of the pleural cavity that extends into the root of the neck above the first rib.

      The costomediastinal recess is the junction at which the costal pleura becomes the mediastinal pleura.

      The middle mediastinum is the part of the mediastinum that is occupied by the heart.

      The hilar reflection is the point where the mediastinal pleura is reflected to continue on as the visceral pleura.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      19.7
      Seconds
  • Question 94 - A 68-year-old man underwent sigmoid resection with diverting colostomy for a ruptured sigmoid...

    Incorrect

    • A 68-year-old man underwent sigmoid resection with diverting colostomy for a ruptured sigmoid diverticulum 10 days ago. He received gentamicin and ampicillin post-op. 2 days after he was discharged from the hospital, he was readmitted because of high grade fever and chills. His blood culture grew Gram-negative bacilli. Which organism is most likely responsible for the patient's infection?

      Your Answer: Brucella abortus

      Correct Answer: Bacteroides fragilis

      Explanation:

      Bacteroides fragilis is an anaerobic, Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium. It is part of the normal flora of the human colon and is generally a commensal, but can cause infection if displaced into the bloodstream or surrounding tissue following surgery, disease, or trauma.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      46.8
      Seconds
  • Question 95 - A 44-year old man, who was euthyroid underwent thyroidectomy following neoplastic cells found...

    Incorrect

    • A 44-year old man, who was euthyroid underwent thyroidectomy following neoplastic cells found on fine-needle aspiration. Frozen section of multiple thyroid masses showed malignant neoplasm of polygonal cells in nests. The neoplasm also showed presence of amyloid which was positive with Congo-red staining. Immunoperoxidase staining for calcitonin was also positive. Chest X-ray revealed no abnormality. However, his blood pressure was found to be raised, and his serum ionised calcium was high. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Parathyroid carcinoma

      Correct Answer: Multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIA

      Explanation:

      MEN (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia) syndromes are a group of three separate familial disease which consists of adenomatous hyperplasia and neoplasia in several endocrine glands. All three conditions are inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, with a single gene producing multiple effects. MEN IIA is characterized by medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, pheochromocytoma and hyperparathyroidism. It should be suspected in patients with bilateral pheochromocytoma, a familial history of MEN, or at least two characteristic endocrine manifestations. Genetic testing is used to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to aid in complete excision of the localized tumour. Pheochromocytomas can be detected by plasma free metanephrines and fractionated urinary catecholamines, particularly adrenaline (epinephrine).

      Imaging studies such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging might also prove useful. Hyperparathyroidism is diagnosed by the standard finding of hypercalcaemia, hypophosphatemia and an increased parathyroid hormone level. Once MEN IIA syndrome is identified in any patient, it is recommended that his or her first-degree relatives and any other symptomatic also undergo genetic testing. Relatives should be subjected to annual screening for hyperparathyroidism and pheochromocytoma beginning in early childhood and continue indefinitely. Serum calcium levels help in screening for hyperparathyroidism. Similarly, screening for pheochromocytoma is by history, measurement of the blood pressure and laboratory testing.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Endocrine
      • Pathology
      7.8
      Seconds
  • Question 96 - Gastrocnemius, semimembranosus and semitendinosus together with which other muscle form the boundaries of...

    Correct

    • Gastrocnemius, semimembranosus and semitendinosus together with which other muscle form the boundaries of the popliteal fossa?

      Your Answer: Biceps femoris

      Explanation:

      The popliteal fossa is located at the back of the knee. It is bounded laterally by the biceps femoris above and the plantaris and lateral head of the gastrocnemius below and medially by the semitendinosus and semimembranosus above and by the medial head of the gastrocnemius below.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      27.5
      Seconds
  • Question 97 - Which of the following muscles is innervated by the inferior branch of the...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following muscles is innervated by the inferior branch of the right recurrent laryngeal nerve?

      Your Answer: Cricothyroid

      Correct Answer: Posterior cricoarytenoid

      Explanation:

      The posterior cricoarytenoid muscle, which is the sole abductor of the vocal folds, receives its innervation from the inferior laryngeal nerve which is a continuation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      7.1
      Seconds
  • Question 98 - What is the innervation of the tensor tympani muscle? ...

    Incorrect

    • What is the innervation of the tensor tympani muscle?

      Your Answer: Facial nerve

      Correct Answer: Trigeminal nerve

      Explanation:

      The tensor veli palatini is innervated by the medial pterygoid nerve, a branch of mandibular nerve, the third branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V3) – the only muscle of the palate not innervated by the pharyngeal plexus, which is formed by the vagal and glossopharyngeal nerves.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      14.2
      Seconds
  • Question 99 - A 50 year-old man, who sustained a head injury experienced sudden onset of...

    Incorrect

    • A 50 year-old man, who sustained a head injury experienced sudden onset of horizontal double vision. He is diagnosed with lateral rectus palsy. Which of the following nerves is affected in this condition?

      Your Answer: Oculomotor

      Correct Answer: Abducent

      Explanation:

      The lateral rectus muscle is one of the 6 extra-ocular muscles that control eye movements. It is responsible for abduction and is the only muscle that is innervated by the abducens nerve (CN VI).

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      24.4
      Seconds
  • Question 100 - A swimmer was struggling to finish his training following an injury to his...

    Incorrect

    • A swimmer was struggling to finish his training following an injury to his right arm. On further examination it was found that any movements involving adduction, medial rotation and extension of her arm were particularly weak. Which nerve in this case was damaged?

      Your Answer: Accessory

      Correct Answer: Thoracodorsal

      Explanation:

      Weakness on these particular movements indicate that there is a problem with the latissimus dorsi muscle. This muscle is very important particularly in swimming movements and is supplied by the thoracodorsal nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      4.6
      Seconds
  • Question 101 - Which of the following abnormalities can be seen in patients with hypermagnesemia? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following abnormalities can be seen in patients with hypermagnesemia?

      Your Answer: Anorexia

      Correct Answer: Respiratory depression

      Explanation:

      Hypermagnesemia is an electrolyte disturbance in which there is a high level of magnesium in the blood. It is defined as a level greater than 1.1 mmol/L. Symptoms include weakness, confusion, decreased breathing rate, and cardiac arrest.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Pathology
      8.1
      Seconds
  • Question 102 - Which muscle is most likely to be affected following an injury to the...

    Incorrect

    • Which muscle is most likely to be affected following an injury to the thoracodorsal nerve (C6-C8)?

      Your Answer: Levator scapulae

      Correct Answer: Latissimus dorsi

      Explanation:

      Latissimus dorsi is a triangular, flat muscle that covers the lumbar region and the lower half of the thoracic region. It is supplied by the sixth, seventh and eighth cervical nerves through the thoracodorsal (long subscapular) nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      14.8
      Seconds
  • Question 103 - The line which divides the perineum into two triangles is connected to the?...

    Incorrect

    • The line which divides the perineum into two triangles is connected to the?

      Your Answer: Pubic tubercles

      Correct Answer: Ischial tuberosities

      Explanation:

      The perineum has it’s deep boundaries in front of the pubic arch and the arcuate ligament of the pubis, behind the tip of the coccyx and on either side of the inferior rami of the pubis and ischium and the sacrotuberous ligament. It also corresponds to the outlet of the pelvis. A line drawn transversely across, in front of the ischial tuberosities divides the space into two portions, the posterior contains the termination of the anal canal and the anterior, contains the external urogenital organs.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Pelvis
      15.4
      Seconds
  • Question 104 - An 8 year old boy presents with a history of repeated bacterial/pyogenic infections....

    Correct

    • An 8 year old boy presents with a history of repeated bacterial/pyogenic infections. He had a normal recovery from chickenpox and measles and shows normal antibody response. A decrease in which of the cell types can best explain this history of repeated pyogenic infections?

      Your Answer: Neutrophils

      Explanation:

      A decrease in the number of granulocytes, particularly neutrophils is known as agranulocytosis and it increases the susceptibility of an individual towards recurrent infections. Neutropenia can be either due to decreased production or increased elimination of neutrophils.

      Ineffective agranulopoiesis is seen in: 1. myeloid stem cell suppression, 2. disease conditions associated with granulopoiesis such as megaloblastic anaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, 3. rare genetic diseases, 4. splenic sequestration and 5. increased peripheral utilization.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology
      • Pathology
      19.9
      Seconds
  • Question 105 - Which is the most common benign germ-cell tumour that could occur in a...

    Incorrect

    • Which is the most common benign germ-cell tumour that could occur in a premenopausal woman?

      Your Answer: Myoma

      Correct Answer: Dermoid cyst

      Explanation:

      A dermoid cyst is a teratoma of a cystic nature that contains an array of developmentally mature and solid tissues. Dermoid cysts grow slowly and this type of cystic teratoma is nearly always benign.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neoplasia
      • Pathology
      14
      Seconds
  • Question 106 - Osteomyelitis is most commonly caused by which microbe in adults? ...

    Incorrect

    • Osteomyelitis is most commonly caused by which microbe in adults?

      Your Answer: Staphylococcus epidermidis

      Correct Answer: Staphylococcus aureus

      Explanation:

      Osteomyelitis is most commonly caused by S. aureus in all age groups.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Orthopaedics
      • Pathology
      7.8
      Seconds
  • Question 107 - Post-total gastrectomy, there will be a decreased production of which of the following...

    Correct

    • Post-total gastrectomy, there will be a decreased production of which of the following enzymes?

      Your Answer: Pepsin

      Explanation:

      Pepsin is a protease that is released from the gastric chief cells and acts to degrade proteins into peptides. Released as pepsinogen, it is activated by hydrochloric acid and into pepsin itself. Gastrin and the vagus nerve trigger the release of pepsinogen and HCl when a meal is ingested. Pepsin functions optimally in an acidic environment, especially at a pH of 2.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      12.4
      Seconds
  • Question 108 - A 23 year old woman is Rh -ve and she delivered a baby...

    Incorrect

    • A 23 year old woman is Rh -ve and she delivered a baby with a Rh+ blood group. What measure can be performed to prevent Rh incompatibility in the next pregnancy?

      Your Answer: Anti IgM

      Correct Answer: Immunoglobulin D

      Explanation:

      Rh disease is also known as erythroblastosis fetalis and is a disease of the new-born. In mild states it can cause anaemia with reticulocytosis and in severe forms causes severe anaemia, morbus hemolytcus new-born and hydrops fetalis. RBCs of the Rh+ baby can cross the placenta and enter into the maternal blood. As she is Rh- her body will form antibodies against the D antigen which will pass through the placenta in subsequent pregnancies.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      9.4
      Seconds
  • Question 109 - During an OSCE exam a medical student is asked to locate the sternal...

    Correct

    • During an OSCE exam a medical student is asked to locate the sternal angle. The sternal angle is a land mark for locating the level of the:

      Your Answer: Second costal cartilage

      Explanation:

      The sternal angle, a key landmark used in the clinic for auscultating for heart sounds, is the point of attachment of the costal cartilage of rib 2 to the sternum. It thus corresponds to the location of the second rib. A horizontal plane through the sternal angle traverses the T4/T5 intervertebral disc and marks the inferior boundary of the superior mediastinum.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      75301.8
      Seconds
  • Question 110 - A 38-year old lady presented to the hospital with abnormal passing of blood...

    Incorrect

    • A 38-year old lady presented to the hospital with abnormal passing of blood per vagina. On examination, she was found to have an endocervical polypoidal mass. On enquiry, she gave history of oral contraceptive usage for 3 years. What finding is expected on the histopathology report of biopsy of the mass?

      Your Answer: Submucosal fibroid

      Correct Answer: Microglandular hyperplasia

      Explanation:

      Endocervical polyps or microglandular hyperplasia are benign growths occurring in the endocervical canal, in about 2-5% women and occur secondary to use of oral contraceptives. They are usually < 1cm in size, friable and reddish-pink. Usually asymptomatic, they can cause bleeding or become infected, leading to leucorrhoea (purulent vaginal discharge). They are usually benign but need to be differentiated from adenocarcinomas by histology.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Women's Health
      16.8
      Seconds
  • Question 111 - Which of the following is likely to result in hematocolpos in a 12-year...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following is likely to result in hematocolpos in a 12-year old girl?

      Your Answer: Cervical condyloma

      Correct Answer: Imperforate hymen

      Explanation:

      Hematocolpos means accumulation of blood in vagina and hematometra is accumulation of blood in the uterus. These are most likely seen with an imperforate hymen; which is seen I 1 in 2000 females. If spontaneous resolution does not occur, treatment involves making a hole in the hymen to allow discharge of menstrual blood.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Women's Health
      23.3
      Seconds
  • Question 112 - In the emergency room, a nurse was introducing a catheter into the patients...

    Incorrect

    • In the emergency room, a nurse was introducing a catheter into the patients femoral vein for rapid fluid therapy. The femoral vein is situated inside the femoral sheath. Which of the following is true about that sheath?

      Your Answer: The femoral sheath invests the femoral vessels throughout their entire course

      Correct Answer: The medial compartment is called the femoral canal

      Explanation:

      The femoral sheath is situated ,4cm below the inguinal ligament. It is a prolongation of the abdominal fascia. The anterior wall is a prolongation of the transversalis fascia and the posterior wall, the iliac fascia. It is divided by two vertical septa into 3 compartments, lateral, intermediate, and medial. The medial compartment is known as the femoral canal and contains some lymphatic vessels. The lateral one contains the femoral artery and the intermediate one contains the femoral vein.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      16.3
      Seconds
  • Question 113 - Bloody discharge from the nipple of a 40-year old woman with no obvious...

    Incorrect

    • Bloody discharge from the nipple of a 40-year old woman with no obvious lump or abnormality on mammography is suggestive of:

      Your Answer: Infiltrating ductal carcinoma

      Correct Answer: Intraductal papilloma

      Explanation:

      A small benign tumour, namely intraductal papilloma is most common in women between 35-55 years of age. It is also the commonest cause of spontaneous discharge from a single duct. A lump below the nipple may be sometimes palpable. Ultrasound and ductography are useful investigations., along with cytology of discharge to assess the presence of malignant cells. Confirmation is by breast biopsy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Women's Health
      12.5
      Seconds
  • Question 114 - The mechanism of action of streptokinase involves: ...

    Incorrect

    • The mechanism of action of streptokinase involves:

      Your Answer: Direct lysis of the clot

      Correct Answer: Direct conversion of plasminogen to plasmin

      Explanation:

      Streptokinase is an enzyme that is produced by group A beta haemolytic streptococcus and is an effective and cost efficient method for the dissolution of a clot used in cases of MI and pulmonary embolism. It works by directly converting plasminogen to plasmin which breaks down the blood components in the clot and fibrin, dissolving the clot. Streptokinase is a bacterial product and thus the body will develop immunity against it.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      5.6
      Seconds
  • Question 115 - Dysarthria, nystagmus and a tremor worsening with directed movement are likely to be...

    Incorrect

    • Dysarthria, nystagmus and a tremor worsening with directed movement are likely to be seen in:

      Your Answer: Parkinsonism

      Correct Answer: Cerebellar disease

      Explanation:

      The given symptoms are seen in diseases affecting the cerebellum. A cerebellar tremor is a slow tremor that occurs at the end of a purposeful movement. It is seen in cerebellar disease, such as multiple sclerosis or some inherited degenerative disorders and chronic alcoholism. Classically, tremors are produced in the same side of the body as a one-sided lesion. Cerebellar disease can also result in a wing-beating’ type of tremor called rubral or Holmes’ tremor – a combination of rest, action and postural tremors. Other signs of cerebellar disease include dysarthria (speech problems), nystagmus (rapid, involuntary rolling of the eyes), gait problems and postural tremor of the trunk and neck.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      15.1
      Seconds
  • Question 116 - Which is the correct order of tendons passing from medial to lateral-posterior to...

    Correct

    • Which is the correct order of tendons passing from medial to lateral-posterior to the medial malleolus?

      Your Answer: Posterior tibial, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus

      Explanation:

      The correct order of structures is the tendon of tibialis posterior, tendon of flexor digitorum longus, posterior tibial artery (and vein), tibial nerve and tendon of flexor hallucis longus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      13.2
      Seconds
  • Question 117 - A blood sample from a patient with polycythaemia vera will show which of...

    Incorrect

    • A blood sample from a patient with polycythaemia vera will show which of the following abnormalities?

      Your Answer: Low red blood cell count

      Correct Answer: High platelet count

      Explanation:

      Polycythaemia is a condition that results in an increase in the total number of red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood. It can be due to a myeloproliferative syndrome, chronically low oxygen levels or rarely malignancy. In primary polycythaemia/ polycythaemia vera the increase is due to an abnormality in the bone marrow, resulting in increased RBCs, white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. In secondary polycythaemia the increase occurs due to high levels of erythropoietin either artificially or naturally. The increase is about 6-8 million/cm3 of blood. A type of secondary polycythaemia is physiological polycythaemia where people living in high altitudes who are exposed to hypoxic conditions produce more erythropoietin as a compensatory mechanism for thin oxygen and low oxygen partial pressure.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      10.7
      Seconds
  • Question 118 - Which of the following is not seen as a complication of wound healing?...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following is not seen as a complication of wound healing?

      Your Answer: Wound dehiscence

      Correct Answer: Malignancy

      Explanation:

      Complications in wound healing can originate due to abnormalities in the repair process. These abnormalities are :

      1) Deficient scar formation: insufficient granulation tissue can lead to wound dehiscence and ulceration. Dehiscence or wound rupture is seen most commonly in abdominal surgery due to increased intraabdominal pressure. Ulcerations are common in extremity wounds due to inadequate vascularization.

      2) Excessive formation of repair components: collagen being laid down may begin normally however later lead to a raised scar also called a hypertrophic scar, which can extend beyond its boundaries to form a keloid and

      3) Formation of contractures.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing
      • Pathology
      33.4
      Seconds
  • Question 119 - Which of the following muscles winds around the pterygoid hamulus? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following muscles winds around the pterygoid hamulus?

      Your Answer: Palatopharyngeus

      Correct Answer: Tensor veli palatini

      Explanation:

      The tensor veli palatini tenses the soft palate and by doing so, assists the levator veli palatini in elevating the palate to occlude and prevent entry of food into the nasopharynx during swallowing. It arises by a flat lamella from the scaphoid fossa at the base of the medial pterygoid plate, from the spina angularis of the sphenoid and from the lateral wall of the cartilage of the auditory tube. Descending vertically between the medial pterygoid plate and the medial pterygoid muscle, it ends in a tendon which winds around the pterygoid hamulus, being retained in this situation by some of the fibres of origin of the medial pterygoid muscle. Between the tendon and the hamulus is a small bursa. The tendon then passes medialward and is inserted onto the palatine aponeurosis and the surface behind the transverse ridge on the horizontal part of the palatine bone.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      31.2
      Seconds
  • Question 120 - A 45 year-old female presents with a drooping eyelid. During examination, the same...

    Incorrect

    • A 45 year-old female presents with a drooping eyelid. During examination, the same pupil of the patient is found to be dilated. Which nerve could be involve in this case?

      Your Answer: Trochlear nerve

      Correct Answer: Oculomotor nerve

      Explanation:

      The oculomotor nerve controls most of the eye muscles. It also controls the constriction of the pupils and thickening of the lens of the eye. This can be tested in two main ways. By moving a finger toward a person’s face to induce accommodation, their pupils should constrict or shining a light into one eye should result in equal constriction of the other eye. The neurons in the optic nerve decussate in the optic chiasm with some crossing to the contralateral optic nerve tract. This is the basis of the swinging-flashlight test. Loss of accommodation and continued pupillary dilation can indicate the presence of a lesion of the oculomotor nerve.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      4.8
      Seconds
  • Question 121 - After total thyroidectomy, which of the following investigations is recommended in the immediate...

    Incorrect

    • After total thyroidectomy, which of the following investigations is recommended in the immediate post-operative period?

      Your Answer: Free catecholamines

      Correct Answer: Serum calcium

      Explanation:

      Total thyroidectomy might sometimes result in inadvertent excision or damage of parathyroid glands, leading to hypoparathyroidism. Monitoring serum calcium levels in the post-operative period to detect hypocalcaemia is essential to diagnose and prevent this condition.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Endocrine
      • Pathology
      9
      Seconds
  • Question 122 - Painful erections along with deviation of the penis to one side when erect...

    Incorrect

    • Painful erections along with deviation of the penis to one side when erect are seen in which of the following conditions?

      Your Answer: Balanitis

      Correct Answer: Peyronie’s disease

      Explanation:

      Peyronie’s disease leads to development of fibrous plaques in the penile soft tissue and occurs in 1% of men, most commonly affecting white males above 40 years age. It is a connective tissue disorder named after a French surgeon, François de la Peyronie who first described it. Symptoms include pain, hard lesions on the penis, abnormal curvature of erect penis, narrowing/shortening, painful sexual intercourse and in later stages, erectile dysfunction. 30% cases report fibrosis in other elastic tissues such as Dupuytren’s contractures of the hand. There is likely a genetic predisposition as increased incidence is noted among the male relatives of an affected individual.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Urology
      7
      Seconds
  • Question 123 - A 27 year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital due to recurrent...

    Incorrect

    • A 27 year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital due to recurrent fever for the past 2 weeks. The patient claimed that he is an intravenous drug user. Following work up, the patient was diagnosed with infective endocarditis. Which is the most likely organism responsible for this diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Pseudomonas aeruginosa

      Correct Answer: Staphylococcus aureus

      Explanation:

      Acute bacterial endocarditis is a fulminant illness lasting over days to weeks (<2weeks). It is most likely due to Staphylococcus aureus especially in intravenous drug abusers.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      22.3
      Seconds
  • Question 124 - Which of the following physiological changes will you see in a young man...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following physiological changes will you see in a young man who has been trekking in the Himalayas for 3 years?

      Your Answer: Decreased production of erythropoietin

      Correct Answer: Increased renal excretion of HCO3 –

      Explanation:

      The atmospheric pressure is lower at high altitudes as compared with sea level. This leads to a decrease in the partial pressure of oxygen. Once 2100 m (7000 feet) of altitude is reached, there is a drop in saturation of oxyhaemoglobin. The oxygen saturation of haemoglobin determines the oxygen content in the blood. The body physiological tries to adapt to high altitude by acclimatization. Immediate effects include hyperventilation, fluid loss (due to a decreased thirst drive), increase in heart rate and slightly lowered stroke volume. Long term effects include lower lactate production, compensatory alkali loss in urine, decrease in plasma volume, increased erythropoietin release and red cell mass, increased haematocrit, higher concentration of capillaries in striated muscle tissue, increase in myoglobin, increase in mitochondria, increase in aerobic enzyme concentration such as 2,3-DPG and pulmonary vasoconstriction.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      19
      Seconds
  • Question 125 - A 45 years old women was diagnosed with breast cancer. After a radical...

    Correct

    • A 45 years old women was diagnosed with breast cancer. After a radical mastectomy to remove all axillary lymph nodes from her right breast, it was noticed that she had a winged scapula. Which nerve injury would explain this?

      Your Answer: Long thoracic nerve

      Explanation:

      The long thoracic nerve supplies the serratus anterior muscle. When this nerve is injured the muscle undergoes paralysis, which is seen clinically as winging of the scapula most apparent when the arm is lifted forward. The long thoracic nerve is greatly susceptible to injury during breast surgery because of its long and superficial course along the thorax from its origin, the brachial plexus, to the lower border of the serratus anterior muscle.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Breast
      34.8
      Seconds
  • Question 126 - The stomach is an organ that is divided into several important anatomical parts....

    Incorrect

    • The stomach is an organ that is divided into several important anatomical parts. These parts of the stomach have varied arterial blood supply that ensure that the whole organ receive oxygenated blood. Which of the following arteries if ligated, will not render any portion of the stomach ischaemic?

      Your Answer: Hepatic

      Correct Answer: Superior mesenteric

      Explanation:

      The blood supply to the stomach is through the following arteries:

      – The superior mesenteric artery supplies blood to the lower part of the duodenum, pancreas and two-thirds of the transverse colon. Thus ligation of the superior mesenteric artery would not affect the stomach.

      – The right and the left gastroepiploic arteries supply the greater curvature of the stomach – along its edges.

      – The short gastric artery supplies blood to the upper portion of the of the greater curvature and the fundus of the stomach.

      – The gastroduodenal artery supplies blood to the distal part of the stomach (the pyloric sphincter) and the proximal end of the duodenum.

      – The left gastroepiploic and the short gastric are branches of the splenic artery and therefore ligation of the splenic artery would directly affect the stomach.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      10.1
      Seconds
  • Question 127 - When does the heart rate decrease? ...

    Incorrect

    • When does the heart rate decrease?

      Your Answer: On inspiration

      Correct Answer: Pressure on the eyeball

      Explanation:

      Various vagotonic manoeuvres (e.g. Valsalva manoeuvre, carotid sinus massage, pressure on eyeballs, ice-water facial immersion, swallowing of ice-cold water) result in increased parasympathetic tone through the vagus nerve which results in a decrease in heart rate. These manoeuvres may be clinically useful in terminating supraventricular arrhythmias.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      13.3
      Seconds
  • Question 128 - Where is factor VIII predominantly synthesised? ...

    Incorrect

    • Where is factor VIII predominantly synthesised?

      Your Answer: Hepatocytes

      Correct Answer: Vascular endothelium

      Explanation:

      Factor VIII is an important part of the coagulation cascade. Deficiency causes haemophilia A. It is synthesised predominantly by the vascular endothelium and is not affected by liver disease. In the circulation it is bound to von Willebrand factor and it forms a stable complex with it. It is activated by thrombin or factor Xa and acts as a co factor to factor IXa to activate factor X which is a co factor to factor Va. Thrombin cleaves fibrinogen in fibrin and forms a meshwork to trap RBC and platelets to form a clot.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      15.5
      Seconds
  • Question 129 - A 35-year old lady presents to her GP with vague abdominal symptoms. Examination...

    Correct

    • A 35-year old lady presents to her GP with vague abdominal symptoms. Examination reveals a normal size spleen. Which of the following is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

      Explanation:

      Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disease caused due to development of an antibody against a platelet antigen (autoantibody). In childhood disease, the autoantibody gets triggered by binding of viral antigen to the megakaryocytes. Presentation includes unexplained thrombocytopenia, petechiae and bleeding from mucosal surfaces. The spleen usually does not enlarge in size. However, splenomegaly can occur due to coexisting viral infection. Marrow examination reveals normal or increased number of megakaryocytes. Diagnosis is by exclusion of other thrombocytopenic disorders.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      12.6
      Seconds
  • Question 130 - A patient with chronic renal disease, missed a day of his dialysis schedule.,...

    Correct

    • A patient with chronic renal disease, missed a day of his dialysis schedule., His serum potassium was 7.6 mmol/L when his electrolytes were checked. What is the ECG finding expected in this patient?

      Your Answer: Tented T waves

      Explanation:

      ECG characteristics of hyperkalaemia may show the following changes: P-waves are widened and of low amplitude due to slowing of conduction, widened QRS complex, QRS-T fusion, loss of ST segment and tall tented T waves.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Pathology
      14.2
      Seconds
  • Question 131 - Where do the cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocyte system originate? ...

    Incorrect

    • Where do the cells belonging to the mononuclear phagocyte system originate?

      Your Answer: Thymus

      Correct Answer: Bone marrow

      Explanation:

      The macrophage originates from a committed bone marrow stem cell. It is called the pluripotent hematopoietic stem cell. This differentiates into a monoblast and then into a promonocyte and finally matures into a monocyte. When called upon they leave the bone marrow and enter into the circulation. Upon entering the tissue they transform into macrophages. Tissue macrophages include: Kupffer cells (liver), alveolar macrophages (lung), osteoclasts (bone), Langerhans cells (skin), microglial cells (central nervous system), and possibly the dendritic immunocytes of the dermis, spleen and lymph nodes.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology
      • Pathology
      14.5
      Seconds
  • Question 132 - Which statement is correct regarding coagulation? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which statement is correct regarding coagulation?

      Your Answer: Prekallikrein is converted to kallikrein during activation of tissue factor pathway

      Correct Answer: Thrombin converts fibrinogen to fibrin

      Explanation:

      Coagulation of blood is a complex process and an important part of haemostasis. There are two main pathways related to coagulation: the contact activation pathway/intrinsic pathway and tissue factor/extrinsic pathway. The extrinsic pathway is activated by external trauma that causes blood to escape from the vascular system. This pathway is quicker than the intrinsic pathway and involves factor VII. The intrinsic pathway is activated by trauma inside the vascular system, and initiated by platelets, exposed endothelium, chemicals, or collagen. This pathway is slower than the extrinsic pathway, but more important. It involves factors XII, XI, IX, VIII. Both pathways meet to finish the formation of a clot in what is known as the common pathway. The common pathway involves factors I, II, V, and X. They converge on the common pathway in which activation of prothrombin to thrombin leads to conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and clot formation.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      3.8
      Seconds
  • Question 133 - A child defecates a few minutes after being fed by the mother. This...

    Incorrect

    • A child defecates a few minutes after being fed by the mother. This is most likely due to:

      Your Answer: Vasovagal reflex

      Correct Answer: Gastrocolic reflex

      Explanation:

      The gastrocolic reflex is a physiological reflex that involves increase in colonic motility in response to stretch in the stomach and by-products of digestion in the small intestine. It is shown to be uneven in its distribution throughout the colon, with the sigmoid colon affected more than the right side of the colon in terms of a phasic response. Various neuropeptides have been proposed as mediators of this reflex, such as serotonin, neurotensin, cholecystokinin and gastrin.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      27.1
      Seconds
  • Question 134 - During an operation to repair an aortic coarctation in a neonate, a surgeon...

    Incorrect

    • During an operation to repair an aortic coarctation in a neonate, a surgeon accidentally cuts the first aortic intercostal arteries as he mobilised the descending aorta. Which one of the following structure might be deprived of its primary source of blood supply following this injury?

      Your Answer: Left bronchus

      Correct Answer: Right bronchus

      Explanation:

      The right bronchus is supplied by one right bronchial artery that may branch from one of the left bronchial arteries or from the right 3rd posterior intercostal artery (this is the first intercostal artery that arises from the aorta). Damage to this artery might stop blood supply to the main bronchus. Intercostal arteries that go to the first and the second interspaces originate from the highest intercostal artery such that blood supply to either of these spaces would not be interfered with.

      The left bronchus receives blood from 2 left bronchial arteries which are direct branches from the descending aorta.

      Fibrous pericardium is the sac that contains the heart. Its blood supply is not a major concern.

      Visceral pericardium receives its blood supply from the coronary vessels.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      12.2
      Seconds
  • Question 135 - A medical intern wanting to perform her first thoracentesis (remove fluid from the...

    Incorrect

    • A medical intern wanting to perform her first thoracentesis (remove fluid from the pleural cavity) wishes to be reminded where to insert the needle to aspirate in order to avoid injuring the lung or neurovascular elements. Where is this place?

      Your Answer: The top of interspace 11 in the scapular line

      Correct Answer: The bottom of interspace 9 in the midaxillary line

      Explanation:

      Thoracentesis is performed in the costodiaphragmatic recess. The needle needs to be inserted below the level of the lungs to avoid injury to the lungs. At the paravertebral line, is between ribs 10 and 12, at the midaxillary line between ribs 8 and 10 and at the midclavicular line between interspaces 6 and 8. The needle should be inserted at the top of the rib (or the bottom of the interspace) to avoid damage to the neurovascular structures found below the rib running in the costal groove.

      The recommended location for the needle insertion varies depending upon the source. It is critical that the patient hold his or her breath to avoid piercing of the lung.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      12.9
      Seconds
  • Question 136 - A 6 year-old boy is brought to you coughing. He is suspected to...

    Incorrect

    • A 6 year-old boy is brought to you coughing. He is suspected to have aspirated a Lego piece which he was seen playing with. Where would you expect the piece to be?

      Your Answer: Right terminal bronchioles

      Correct Answer: Right main bronchus

      Explanation:

      Inhaled objects are more likely to enter the right lung for several reasons. First the right bronchus is shorter, wider and more vertical than the left bronchus. Also, the carina (a ridge-like structure at the point of tracheal bifurcation) is set a little towards the left. The terminal bronchiole is a very small space and impossible for the seed to lodge here.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      6.8
      Seconds
  • Question 137 - Which of the following is the most likely cause of massive splenomegaly in...

    Correct

    • Which of the following is the most likely cause of massive splenomegaly in a 35-year old gentleman?

      Your Answer: Myelofibrosis

      Explanation:

      Causes of massive splenomegaly include chronic myelogenous leukaemia, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, lymphoma, hairy cell leukaemia, myelofibrosis, polycythaemia vera, sarcoidosis, Gaucher’s disease and malaria.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      4.1
      Seconds
  • Question 138 - The most likely cause of prominent U waves on the electrocardiogram (ECG) of...

    Incorrect

    • The most likely cause of prominent U waves on the electrocardiogram (ECG) of a patient is:

      Your Answer: Hypocalcaemia

      Correct Answer: Hypokalaemia

      Explanation:

      The U-wave, not always visible in ECGs, is thought to represent repolarisation of papillary muscles or Purkinje fibres. When seen, it is very small and occurs after the T-wave. Inverted U-waves indicate myocardial ischaemia or left ventricular volume overload. Prominent U-waves are most commonly seen in hypokalaemia. Other causes include hypercalcaemia, thyrotoxicosis, digitalis exposure, adrenaline and class 1A and 3 anti-arrhythmic agents. It can also be seen in congenital long-QT syndrome and in intracranial haemorrhage.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      22
      Seconds
  • Question 139 - Which of the following changes in the histology of the cell is most...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following changes in the histology of the cell is most likely to be accompanied by disruption of the cell membrane following an injury?

      Your Answer: Karyorrhexis

      Correct Answer: Coagulative necrosis

      Explanation:

      The process of necrosis ends with the rupture of the cell membrane and the consequent release of the cellular components into the surrounding tissue. Apoptosis, pyknosis and karyorrhexis are not reversible events but the cell membrane remains intact. Cloudy swelling and hydropic changes are also reversible but again the cell membrane remains intact and they are therefore different and distinct from necrosis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing
      • Pathology
      14.4
      Seconds
  • Question 140 - An old man presented with atrophy of the thenar eminence despite the sensation...

    Incorrect

    • An old man presented with atrophy of the thenar eminence despite the sensation over it still being intact. What is the injured nerve in this case?

      Your Answer: Ulnar nerve

      Correct Answer: Median nerve

      Explanation:

      Atrophy of the thenar muscles means injury to the motor supply of these muscles. The nerve that sends innervation to it is the median nerve. But the median nerve does not provide sensory innervation to the overlying skin so sensation is spared.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      7.3
      Seconds
  • Question 141 - Which of the following muscles attaches to the pterygomandibular raphe? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which of the following muscles attaches to the pterygomandibular raphe?

      Your Answer: Lateral pterygoid muscle

      Correct Answer: Superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle

      Explanation:

      The pterygomandibular raphé (pterygomandibular ligament) provides attachment on its posterior border to the superior pharyngeal constrictor and on its anterior border to the buccinator muscle.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      9.9
      Seconds
  • Question 142 - The gastrosplenic ligament also known as the gastrolienal ligament is the structure that...

    Incorrect

    • The gastrosplenic ligament also known as the gastrolienal ligament is the structure that connects the greater curvature of the stomach to the hilum of the spleen. Which of the following arteries would most likely be injured if a surgeon accidentally tore this ligament?

      Your Answer: Hepatic artery proper

      Correct Answer: Short gastric

      Explanation:

      The short gastric arteries arise from the end of the splenic arteries and form five to seven branches. The short gastric arteries inside the gastrosplenic ligament from the left to the right, supply the greater curvature of the stomach. The hepatic artery proper runs inside the hepatoduodenal ligament. The right gastric artery and the left gastric artery are contained in the hepatogastric ligament. The caudal pancreatic artery branches off from the splenic artery and supplies the tail of the pancreas. The middle colic artery supplies the transverse colon. The splenic artery does not travel in the gastrosplenic ligament and so it would not be damaged by a tear to this ligament.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      7.1
      Seconds
  • Question 143 - What is a major source of fuel being oxidised by the skeletal muscles...

    Incorrect

    • What is a major source of fuel being oxidised by the skeletal muscles of a man who has undergone starvation for 7 days?

      Your Answer: Muscle triglycerides

      Correct Answer: Serum fatty acids

      Explanation:

      Starvation is the most extreme form of malnutrition. Prolonged starvation can lead to permanent organ damage and can be fatal. Starved individuals eventually lose significant fat and muscle mass as the body uses these for energy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Gastroenterology
      • Physiology
      34.7
      Seconds
  • Question 144 - Chest X-ray of a 45-year old gentleman with a week history of pleurisy...

    Correct

    • Chest X-ray of a 45-year old gentleman with a week history of pleurisy showed a small pneumothorax with moderate-sized pleural effusion. Arterial blood gas analysis showed p(CO2) = 23 mmHg, p(O2) = 234.5 mmHg, standard bicarbonate = 16 mmol/l. What are we most likely dealing with?

      Your Answer: Compensated respiratory alkalosis

      Explanation:

      Normal pH with low p(CO2) and low standard bicarbonate could indicate either compensated respiratory alkalosis or a compensated metabolic acidosis. However, the history of hyperventilation for 5 days (pleurisy) favours compensated respiratory alkalosis. Compensated metabolic acidosis would have been likely in a diabetic patient with fever, vomiting and high glucose (diabetic ketoacidosis).

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      27.2
      Seconds
  • Question 145 - A 5-year-old child is rushed to the emergency department because of fever, erythema...

    Correct

    • A 5-year-old child is rushed to the emergency department because of fever, erythema and neck stiffness. The child is also hypotensive upon physical examination. Which is the most likely toxin responsible for this child's condition?

      Your Answer: Endotoxin

      Explanation:

       An endotoxin is part of the bacterial outer membrane, and it is not released until the bacterium is killed by the immune system. The body’s response to an endotoxin can involve severe inflammation. In general, the inflammation process is usually considered beneficial to the infected host, but if the reaction is severe enough, it can lead to sepsis.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      15.6
      Seconds
  • Question 146 - A CT-scan report of a patient with gastric carcinoma shows that the lymph...

    Incorrect

    • A CT-scan report of a patient with gastric carcinoma shows that the lymph nodes around the coeliac trunk are enlarged. The coeliac trunk:

      Your Answer: Is surrounded by the aorticorenal ganglion

      Correct Answer: Gives rise to the splenic, left gastric and common hepatic arteries

      Explanation:

      The coeliac trunk is a branch of the aorta arising just below the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm to pass nearly horizontally forward to divide into 3 large branches i.e. the left gastric, the hepatic and the splenic arteries. Occasionally it may give off one of the inferior phrenic arteries. It is covered by the lesser omentum and on the right side bordered by the right coeliac ganglion and the cardiac end of the stomach. Inferiorly it is bordered by the upper border of the pancreas and splenic vein. The embryonic midgut is supplied by the superior mesenteric artery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      13.9
      Seconds
  • Question 147 - A 30 year old male has a painless and transilluminant swelling at the...

    Incorrect

    • A 30 year old male has a painless and transilluminant swelling at the upper pole of his left testi. There is a negative cough test. Which of the following is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Pyocoele

      Correct Answer: Spermatocoele

      Explanation:

      Spermatocele, also known as a spermatic cyst is a cystic mass usually occurring at the upper pole of the testis. Differential diagnosis included hydrocele as both are cystic, painless and transilluminant. Ultrasound is a useful modality. If symptomatic or large, surgical excision can be done.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Urology
      8.4
      Seconds
  • Question 148 - Electrophoresis is used to detect antibodies (immunoglobulins) in a blood sample from the...

    Correct

    • Electrophoresis is used to detect antibodies (immunoglobulins) in a blood sample from the umbilical artery of a new born. Which antibodies have the highest percentage in a new-born?

      Your Answer: IgG

      Explanation:

      IgG is a monomeric immunoglobulin. It is formed by two heavy chains and two light chains and has two binding sites. Its is the most abundant antibody that is equally distributed in the blood and the tissues. It is the only antibody that can pass through the placenta and thus the only antibody present in the baby after it is born. There are four subclasses: IgG1 (66%), IgG2 (23%), IgG3 (7%) and IgG4 (4%). IgG1, IgG3 and IgG4 cross the placenta easily

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      15.2
      Seconds
  • Question 149 - A 30 year old lawyer presented with a history of pleural effusions, pericarditis,...

    Incorrect

    • A 30 year old lawyer presented with a history of pleural effusions, pericarditis, arthralgia without joint deformity and episodes of myalgia for the past 12 months. Blood tests reveal a normocytic anaemia. Which of the following tests should be performed to investigate this condition further?

      Your Answer: Creatine phosphokinase

      Correct Answer: Antinuclear antibody test

      Explanation:

      These non specific findings are suggestive of autoimmune disease. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) is the first test that should be performed when autoimmune diseases are suspected and later on more specific tests should be performed. This tests aids in the diagnosis of SLE, scleroderma, Sjogren’s syndrome, Raynaud’s disease, juvenile chronic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome etc. To confirm the disease a history, physical examination along with specific tests are required.

      CPK is more specific for acute conditions.

      ESR is a non specific test for inflammation.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology
      • Pathology
      25.7
      Seconds
  • Question 150 - A 27-year-old HIV patient started on an antifungal agent. Which antifungal agent that...

    Incorrect

    • A 27-year-old HIV patient started on an antifungal agent. Which antifungal agent that inhibits the biosynthesis of fungal ergosterol was given to the patient?

      Your Answer: Griseofulvin

      Correct Answer: Ketoconazole

      Explanation:

      Ketoconazole is a synthetic imidazole antifungal drug used primarily to treat fungal infections. It inhibits the biosynthesis of ergosterol by blocking demethylation at the C14 site of the ergosterol precursor. Amphotericin B and Nystatin impair permeability of the cell membrane. Flucytosine interferes with DNA synthesis, while the target of griseofulvin is the microtubules

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      12.5
      Seconds
  • Question 151 - A butcher accidentally cut himself on his right index finger. Which of the...

    Incorrect

    • A butcher accidentally cut himself on his right index finger. Which of the following substances when in contact with the basement membrane of the injured vasculature will activate the coagulation cascade as well as the kinin system in a first response to this injury?

      Your Answer: Thromboxane

      Correct Answer: Hageman factor

      Explanation:

      Hageman factor/factor XII in the intrinsic pathway activates prekallikrein and factor XI. Deficiency will not cause excessive bleeding as other coagulation factors will be utilized but the PTT will be greater than 200 seconds.

      Thromboxane promotes platelet aggregation and causes vasoconstriction.

      Plasmin, which is cleaved from plasminogen acts as an anticoagulant which breaks down thrombi.

      Platelet activating factor promotes platelet aggregation and is also chemotactic to neutrophils.

      Histamine acts as a vasodilator.

      Platelet inhibiting factor acts an anticoagulant.

      Renin is a hormone released from the kidney that causes vasoconstriction and water retention.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing
      • Pathology
      14.5
      Seconds
  • Question 152 - 13 year old girl developed sun burnt cheeks after spending the day playing...

    Incorrect

    • 13 year old girl developed sun burnt cheeks after spending the day playing on the beach. What is the underlying mechanism to her injury?

      Your Answer: Antigen–antibody reaction

      Correct Answer: Free radical injury

      Explanation:

      Free radicals are a by-product of chemical reactions with an unpaired electron in their outer most shell. They are capable of causing wide spread damage to cells. They can cause autolytic reactions thereby converting the reactants into free radicals. By absorbing sun light, the energy is used to hydrolyse water into hydroxyl (OH) and hydrogen (H) free radicals which can cause injury by lipid peroxidation of membranes, oxidative modification of proteins and damage to the DNA structure.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Dermatology
      • Pathology
      7.3
      Seconds
  • Question 153 - If a catheter is placed in the main pulmonary artery of a healthy...

    Incorrect

    • If a catheter is placed in the main pulmonary artery of a healthy 30-year-old woman, which of the following will be its mean pulmonary arterial pressure?

      Your Answer: 110 mmHg

      Correct Answer: 15 mmHg

      Explanation:

      The pulmonary artery pressure (PA pressure) is a measure of the blood pressure found in the main pulmonary artery. The hydrostatic pressure of the pulmonary circulation refers to the actual pressure inside pulmonary vessels relative to atmospheric pressure. Hydrostatic (blood pressure) in the pulmonary vascular bed is low compared with that of similar systemic vessels. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure is about 15 mmHg (ranging from about 13 to 19 mmHg) and is much lower than the average systemic arterial pressure of 90 mmHg.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      6.6
      Seconds
  • Question 154 - In which of the following situations will fat necrosis occur? ...

    Incorrect

    • In which of the following situations will fat necrosis occur?

      Your Answer: Trauma to the abdomen

      Correct Answer: Trauma to the breast

      Explanation:

      Fat necrosis is necrosis of adipose tissue with subsequent deposition of calcium, giving it a white chalky appearance. It is seen characteristically in trauma to the breast and the pancreas with subsequent involvement of the peripancreatic fat. In the breast it may present as a palpable mass with is usually painless or as an incidental finding on mammogram. Fatty acids are released from the traumatic tissue which combine with calcium in a process known as saponification, this is an example of dystrophic calcification in which calcium binds to dead tissue. The central focus is surrounded by macrophages and neutrophils initially, followed by proliferation of fibroblasts, neovascularization and lymphocytic migration to the site of the insult.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing
      • Pathology
      9.2
      Seconds
  • Question 155 - After having donated a unit of blood. The blood bank will prefer to...

    Incorrect

    • After having donated a unit of blood. The blood bank will prefer to use which of the following anticoagulants to store the blood?

      Your Answer: Warfarin

      Correct Answer: Citrate

      Explanation:

      Calcium is necessary for coagulation to occur. Citrate being a chelator and combining with calcium ions to form un-ionised compound will prevent coagulation. Following transfusion the citrate is removed by the liver with in a few minutes. Oxalate also works on the same principle but it is toxic to the body.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      23
      Seconds
  • Question 156 - The dural venous sinuses are venous channels that drain blood from the brain....

    Incorrect

    • The dural venous sinuses are venous channels that drain blood from the brain. This sinuses are located between which structures?

      Your Answer: Neurocranium and the periosteal layer of the dura mater

      Correct Answer: Meningeal and periosteal layers of the dura mater

      Explanation:

      The dural venous sinuses lies between the periosteal and meningeal layer of the dura mater. Dural venous sinuses is unique because it does not run parallel with arteries and allows bidirectional flow of blood intracranially as it is valve-less.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      27.6
      Seconds
  • Question 157 - A 38-year old woman presents to the clinic with a 2 cm eczema-like...

    Correct

    • A 38-year old woman presents to the clinic with a 2 cm eczema-like lesion on the areolar region of her left breast, for 5 months. Biopsy of the lesion showed large cells at the dermal-epidermal junction with positive staining for mucin. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Paget’s disease of the breast

      Explanation:

      Paget’s disease of the breast or nipple resembles eczema in appearance with an underlying carcinoma typically. The disease is usually unilateral and presents with inflammation, oozing and crusting along with a non-healing ulcer. Treatment is often delayed due to the innocuous appearance but can be fatal. It results due to spread of neoplastic cells from the ducts of the mammary gland to the epithelium.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Women's Health
      16.7
      Seconds
  • Question 158 - An explorative laparotomy is done on a 23 year old following a gunshot...

    Correct

    • An explorative laparotomy is done on a 23 year old following a gunshot abdominal injury through the right iliac fossa. It is found that the ileocolic artery is severed and the bullet had perforated the caecum. From which branch does the ileocolic artery originate?

      Your Answer: Superior mesenteric artery

      Explanation:

      Ileocolic artery branches off from the superior mesenteric artery. It then divides to give a superior and inferior branch.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      7.5
      Seconds
  • Question 159 - A surgical registrar performing an adrenalectomy procedure on the left suprarenal gland of...

    Incorrect

    • A surgical registrar performing an adrenalectomy procedure on the left suprarenal gland of a 25 - year old male patient, accidentally jabbed and injured a vital structure that lies anterior to the left suprarenal organ. Which of the following was the structure most likely injured?

      Your Answer: Liver

      Correct Answer: Pancreas

      Explanation:

      The adrenal (suprarenal) glands are organs of the endocrine system located on top of each of the kidneys. The left suprarenal gland, in question, is crescent in shape and slightly larger than the right suprarenal gland. It is posteriorly located to the lateral aspect of the head of the pancreas which is thus the most likely to be injured. The other organs like the duodenum, liver and the inferior vena cava are related to the right suprarenal gland. The spleen and the colon are not in close proximity with the left suprarenal gland and are not likely to be the organs injured.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      9.2
      Seconds
  • Question 160 - The primary somatosensory cortex is located in the: ...

    Incorrect

    • The primary somatosensory cortex is located in the:

      Your Answer: Central sulcus

      Correct Answer: Postcentral gyrus

      Explanation:

      The primary somatic sensory cortex is located in the postcentral gyrus and is the largest cortical receiving area for information from somatosensory receptors. Through corticocortical fibres, it then sends the information to other areas of the neocortex and further analysis takes place in the posterior parietal association cortex.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      7.8
      Seconds
  • Question 161 - Which of the following will show decreased hearing when tested by air conduction...

    Correct

    • Which of the following will show decreased hearing when tested by air conduction but normal hearing when tested by bone conduction?

      Your Answer: Fibrosis causing fixation of the ossicles

      Explanation:

      As the cochlea is embedded into bone, the vibrations from the bone are transmitted directly to the fluid in the cochlea. Hence, any damage to the ossicles or tympanic membrane will not show an abnormal result on bone conduction test.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      4.4
      Seconds
  • Question 162 - A neurotransmitter of the nigrostriatal pathway is: ...

    Incorrect

    • A neurotransmitter of the nigrostriatal pathway is:

      Your Answer: Serotonin

      Correct Answer: Dopamine

      Explanation:

      Dopamine acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, activating dopamine receptors. It is also a neurohormone released from the hypothalamus. It plays an important role in the reward system. It is believed that dopamine provides a teaching signal to parts of the brain responsible for acquiring new motor sequences (behaviours), by activation of dopamine neurons when an unexpected reward is presented. Loss of dopamine neurones in the nigrostriatal pathway causes Parkinson’s disease. In the frontal lobes, dopamine controls the flow of information from other areas of the brain, and thus, dopamine disorders in this region can cause a decline in neurocognitive functions, especially memory, attention and problem solving. Reduced dopamine concentrations in the prefrontal cortex are thought to contribute to attention-deficit disorder and some symptoms of schizophrenia. Dopamine is also the primary neuroendocrine regulator of the secretion of prolactin from the anterior pituitary gland. Dopamine is also commonly associated with the pleasure system of the brain. This plays a key role in understanding the mechanism of action of drugs (such as cocaine and the amphetamines), which seem to be directly or indirectly related to the increase of dopamine.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Physiology
      18.6
      Seconds
  • Question 163 - Staphylococcus aureus can be identified in the laboratory based on the clotting of...

    Incorrect

    • Staphylococcus aureus can be identified in the laboratory based on the clotting of plasma. Which microbial product is responsible for this activity?

      Your Answer: Plasminogen

      Correct Answer: Coagulase

      Explanation:

      Staphylococcus aureus is the most pathogenic species and is implicated in a variety of infections.  S. aureus can be identified due to its production of coagulase. The staphylococcal enzyme coagulase will cause inoculated citrated rabbit plasma to gel or coagulate. The coagulase converts soluble fibrinogen in the plasma into insoluble fibrin.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      37.8
      Seconds
  • Question 164 - The inferior palpebral nerve ascends behind the orbicularis oculi. What is the terminal...

    Incorrect

    • The inferior palpebral nerve ascends behind the orbicularis oculi. What is the terminal branch of the inferior palpebral nerve?

      Your Answer: Nasociliary nerve

      Correct Answer: Infraorbital nerve

      Explanation:

      The inferior palpebral nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve. It supplies the skin and conjunctiva of the lower eyelid.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      15.5
      Seconds
  • Question 165 - The deep planter artery is a branch of the: ...

    Incorrect

    • The deep planter artery is a branch of the:

      Your Answer: Posterior tibial artery

      Correct Answer: Dorsalis pedis artery

      Explanation:

      The deep plantar artery is a branch of the dorsalis pedis artery.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      20.7
      Seconds
  • Question 166 - The passage of leukocytes through the wall of the blood vessels is best...

    Incorrect

    • The passage of leukocytes through the wall of the blood vessels is best described by which of the following terms?

      Your Answer: Euperiporesis

      Correct Answer: Diapedesis

      Explanation:

      The steps involved in leukocyte arrival and function are:

      1. margination: cells migrate from the centre to the periphery of the vessel

      2. rolling: selectins are upregulated on the vessel walls

      3. adhesion: upregulation of the adhesion molecules ICAM and VCAM on the endothelium interact with integrins on the leukocytes, interaction of these results in adhesion

      4. diapedesis and chemotaxis: diapedesis is the transmigration of the leukocyte across the endothelium of the capillary and towards a chemotactic product

      5. phagocytosis: engulfing the offending substance/cell.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing
      • Pathology
      156.5
      Seconds
  • Question 167 - A 34-year-old woman has been suffering from headaches, fever, vomiting, and confusion for...

    Incorrect

    • A 34-year-old woman has been suffering from headaches, fever, vomiting, and confusion for the last 5 days. A CT scan reveals an oedematous mass with ring enhancement in the left temporal region. It is biopsied, revealing glial cells, necrosis, neutrophils and lymphocytes. What is the most likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Vascular malformation

      Correct Answer: Cerebral abscess

      Explanation:

      A cerebral abscess can result from direct extension of cranial infections, penetrating head trauma, haematogenous spread, or for unknown causes. An abscess forms when an area of cerebral inflammation becomes necrotic and encapsulated by glial cells and fibroblasts. Oedema around the abscess can increase the intracranial pressure. Symptoms result from increased intracranial pressure and mass effects. It is most frequent in the third decade of life, and when it occurs in children, it is usually associated with congenital heart disease.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Neurology
      • Pathology
      39.1
      Seconds
  • Question 168 - During an inguinal hernia repair, an incision is made parallel to and 5cm...

    Correct

    • During an inguinal hernia repair, an incision is made parallel to and 5cm above the inguinal ligament. The registrar is warned to look out for the inferior epigastric vessels to avoid damage. Between which layers of the abdominal wall is the registrar likely to find these vessels?

      Your Answer: Transversus abdominis muscle and peritoneum

      Explanation:

      The inferior epigastric vessels lie on the inner surface of the transversus abdominis muscle covered by the parietal peritoneum. This layer of peritoneum lies over the inferior epigastric vessels to make the lateral umbilical fold. Camper’s and Scarpa’s fascia are two layers of the superficial fascia, the fatty layer and the membranous layer respectively.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      17.8
      Seconds
  • Question 169 - A 24-year-old patient with recurrent episodes of deep vein thrombosis presents again to...

    Incorrect

    • A 24-year-old patient with recurrent episodes of deep vein thrombosis presents again to the clinic. Deficiency of which of the following blood proteins is the most probable cause of this episode?

      Your Answer: Alpha-2-antiplasmin

      Correct Answer: Antithrombin III

      Explanation:

      Antithrombin III (ATIII) is a blood protein that acts by inhibiting blood coagulation by neutralizing the enzymatic activity of thrombin.

      Antithrombin III deficiency is an autosomal dominant disorder that leads to an increased risk of venous and arterial thrombosis. Clinical manifestations typically appear in young adulthood.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      14.8
      Seconds
  • Question 170 - A 56-year-old man undergoes tests to determine his renal function. His results over...

    Incorrect

    • A 56-year-old man undergoes tests to determine his renal function. His results over a period of 24 hours were:

      Urine flow rate: 2. 0 ml/min

      Urine inulin: 1.0 mg/ml

      Plasma inulin: 0.01 mg/ml

      Urine urea: 260 mmol/l

      Plasma urea: 7 mmol/l

      What is the glomerular filtration rate?

      Your Answer: 250 ml/min

      Correct Answer: 200 ml/min

      Explanation:

      Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is the volume of fluid filtered from the renal (kidney) glomerular capillaries into the Bowman’s capsule per unit time. GFR is equal to the inulin clearance because inulin is freely filtered into Bowman’s capsule but is not reabsorbed or secreted. The clearance (C) of any substance can be calculated as follows: C = (U × V)/P, where U and P are the urine and plasma concentrations of the substance, respectively and V is the urine flow rate. Thus, glomerular filtration rate = (1.0 × 2. 0)/0.01 = 200 ml/min.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Physiology
      23.6
      Seconds
  • Question 171 - Which muscle is responsible for directing the gaze downward when the eye is...

    Incorrect

    • Which muscle is responsible for directing the gaze downward when the eye is abducted?

      Your Answer: Lateral rectus muscle

      Correct Answer: Inferior rectus muscle

      Explanation:

      The inferior rectus muscle is a muscle in the orbit. As with most of the muscles of the orbit, it is innervated by the inferior division of oculomotor nerve (Cranial Nerve III). It depresses, adducts, and helps laterally rotate the eye.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      3
      Seconds
  • Question 172 - A retroperitoneal structure is: ...

    Correct

    • A retroperitoneal structure is:

      Your Answer: Pancreas

      Explanation:

      Retroperitoneal structures are those that are found behind the peritoneum. They include: kidneys, suprarenal glands, bladder, ureter, inferior vena cava, rectum, oesophagus (part of it), part of the pancreas, 2nd, 3rd and 4th parts of the duodenum and ascending and descending parts of the colon.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      26.5
      Seconds
  • Question 173 - Choose the most correct answer regarding the common peroneal nerve. ...

    Correct

    • Choose the most correct answer regarding the common peroneal nerve.

      Your Answer: It gives rise to the nerve that supplies the anterior compartment leg muscles

      Explanation:

      The common peroneal nerve divides beneath the peroneus longus muscle and gives off articular and lateral sural cutaneous nerves which supply muscular branches to the muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg which are the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum, peroneus tertius and extensor hallucis longus.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Lower Limb
      20
      Seconds
  • Question 174 - An experiment is carried out to observe engulfment and phagocytosis of microbes. Strep...

    Correct

    • An experiment is carried out to observe engulfment and phagocytosis of microbes. Strep pneumoniae are added to a solution of leukocytes with a substance added to enhance the process of phagocytosis. What is this substance?

      Your Answer: Complement C3b

      Explanation:

      C3b is cleaved from C3 complement with the help of the enzyme C3- convertase. It binds to the cell surface of the offending substance and opsonizes it. This makes it easy for the phagocytes to detect and eliminate them.

      IgM does not act as an opsonin but igG does.

      Selectins aid leukocytes to bind to the endothelial surfaces.

      C5a is a chemo-attractant and histamine a vasodilator.

      NADPH oxidises offending substance after phagocytosis within the macrophage.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Inflammation & Immunology
      • Pathology
      9
      Seconds
  • Question 175 - Fine-needle aspiration is a type of biopsy procedure. When performing a fine-needle aspiration...

    Incorrect

    • Fine-needle aspiration is a type of biopsy procedure. When performing a fine-needle aspiration of the lungs, which is the most common complication of the procedure?

      Your Answer: Haemothorax

      Correct Answer: Pneumothorax

      Explanation:

      Pneumothorax is the most common complication of a fine-needle aspiration procedure. Various factors, such as lesion size, have been associated with increased risk of pneumothorax .

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Respiratory
      24.6
      Seconds
  • Question 176 - An alcoholic patient was found to have hypomagnesaemia on blood tests. Which of...

    Incorrect

    • An alcoholic patient was found to have hypomagnesaemia on blood tests. Which of the following clinical features will have prompted the doctor to check the serum magnesium level in this patient?

      Your Answer: Weakness

      Correct Answer: Seizures

      Explanation:

      Hypomagnesaemia is a condition characterised by a low level of magnesium in the blood. The normal range for serum magnesium level is 0.75-1.05 mmol/l. In hypomagnesaemia serum levels of magnesium are less than 0.75 mmol/l. The cardiovascular and nervous systems are the most commonly affected. Neuromuscular manifestations include symptoms like tremor, tetany, weakness, apathy, delirium, a positive Chvostek and Trousseau sign, nystagmus and seizures. Cardiovascular manifestations include electrocardiographic abnormalities and arrhythmias e.g. ventricular fibrillation.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Pathology
      12.9
      Seconds
  • Question 177 - Etoposide is a chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of different types of...

    Incorrect

    • Etoposide is a chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of different types of cancer. Which of the following is the correct indication for this drug?

      Your Answer: Colon cancer

      Correct Answer: Lung cancer

      Explanation:

      Etoposide phosphate is an inhibitor of the enzyme topoisomerase II. It is used as a form of chemotherapy for malignancies such as lung cancer, testicular cancer, lymphoma, non-lymphocytic leukaemia and glioblastoma multiforme. Side effects are very common and can include low blood cell counts, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, hair loss, and fever.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Pharmacology
      28.9
      Seconds
  • Question 178 - A 38 year-old man falls on an outstretched hand. X-rays indicate an anterior...

    Incorrect

    • A 38 year-old man falls on an outstretched hand. X-rays indicate an anterior dislocation of one of the carpal bones. Which carpal bone is most commonly dislocated?

      Your Answer: Triquetrum

      Correct Answer: Lunate

      Explanation:

      The scaphoid bone is the most commonly fractured carpal bone and has an increased risk of avascular necrosis.

      The lunate is the most commonly dislocated carpal bone. The displaced bone may compress the median nerve in the carpal tunnel.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      8.6
      Seconds
  • Question 179 - As per the Poiseuille-Hagen formula, doubling the diameter of a vessel will change...

    Incorrect

    • As per the Poiseuille-Hagen formula, doubling the diameter of a vessel will change the resistance of the vessel from 16 peripheral resistance units (PRU) to:

      Your Answer: 12 PRU

      Correct Answer: 1 PRU

      Explanation:

      Poiseuille-Hagen formula for flow in along narrow tube states that F = (PA– PB) × (Π/8) × (1/η) × (r4/l) where F = flow, PA– PB = pressure difference between the two ends of the tube, η = viscosity, r = radius of tube and L = length of tube. Also, flow is given by pressure difference divided by resistance. Hence, R = 8ηL ÷ Πr4. Hence, the resistance of the vessel changes in inverse proportion to the fourth power of the diameter. So, if the diameter of the vessel is increased to twice the original, it will lead to decrease in resistance to one-sixteenth its initial value.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      6.2
      Seconds
  • Question 180 - A 43-year-old diabetic man complains of headaches, palpitations, anxiety, abdominal pain and weakness....

    Incorrect

    • A 43-year-old diabetic man complains of headaches, palpitations, anxiety, abdominal pain and weakness. He is administered sodium bicarbonate used to treat:

      Your Answer: Metabolic alkalosis

      Correct Answer: Metabolic acidosis

      Explanation:

      Sodium bicarbonate is indicated in the management of metabolic acidosis, which may occur in severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, circulatory insufficiency due to shock or severe dehydration, extracorporeal circulation of blood, cardiac arrest and severe primary lactic acidosis. Bicarbonate is given at 50-100 mmol at a time under scrupulous monitoring of the arterial blood gas readings. This intervention, however, has some serious complications including lactic acidosis, and in those cases, should be used with great care.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Fluids & Electrolytes
      • Physiology
      49
      Seconds
  • Question 181 - A 65-year old gentleman presents to the clinic with chronic back pain and...

    Incorrect

    • A 65-year old gentleman presents to the clinic with chronic back pain and weight loss. His blood count shows a white blood cell count of 10 × 109/l, with a differential count of 66 polymorphonuclear leukocytes, 7 bands, 3 metamyelocytes, 3 myelocytes, 14 lymphocytes, 7 monocytes, and 5 nucleated red blood cells. The haemoglobin is 13 g/dl with a haematocrit of 38.1%, a mean corpuscular volume of 82 fl, and a platelet count of 126 × 109/l. What is the likely diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

      Correct Answer: Metastatic carcinoma

      Explanation:

      The peripheral blood findings suggest a leucoerythroblastic picture, the common causes of which in a 65-year old gentleman includes prostatic or lung malignancy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      11.1
      Seconds
  • Question 182 - A 34-year-old Asian male presents with cervical lymphadenopathy. The patient is suspected to...

    Incorrect

    • A 34-year-old Asian male presents with cervical lymphadenopathy. The patient is suspected to have tuberculous lymphadenopathy. Excision biopsy of one of the nodes showed granulomatous inflammation. Which histopathologic feature is most likely consistent with the diagnosis of tuberculosis?

      Your Answer: The presence of Gram positive cocci

      Correct Answer: Caseation necrosis

      Explanation:

      The granulomas of tuberculosis tend to contain necrosis (caseating tubercles), but non-necrotizing granulomas may also be present. Multinucleated giant cells with nuclei arranged like a horseshoe (Langhans giant cells) and foreign body giant cells are often present, but are not specific for tuberculosis. A definitive diagnosis of tuberculosis requires identification of the causative organism by microbiological cultures.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Microbiology
      • Pathology
      16
      Seconds
  • Question 183 - An experiment was conducted in which the skeletal muscle protein (not smooth muscle)...

    Incorrect

    • An experiment was conducted in which the skeletal muscle protein (not smooth muscle) involved in contraction was selectively inhibited. Which protein was inhibited?

      Your Answer: Calmodulin

      Correct Answer: Troponin

      Explanation:

      The mechanism of contraction of smooth muscles is different from that of skeletal muscles in which the contractile protein is troponin whilst in smooth muscle contraction is a protein called calmodulin. Calmodulin reacts with calcium ions and stimulates the formation of myosin crossbridges.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General
      • Physiology
      21.2
      Seconds
  • Question 184 - The Carpal tunnel does NOT contain: ...

    Incorrect

    • The Carpal tunnel does NOT contain:

      Your Answer: Flexor digitorum profundus

      Correct Answer: Flexor carpi ulnaris

      Explanation:

      The contents of the carpal tunnel include:

      – Median nerve

      – Flexor digitorum supervicialis

      – Flexor digitorum profundus

      – Flexor policis longus

      – Flexor carpi radialis

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      5.9
      Seconds
  • Question 185 - The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery, the artery that supplies blood to the pancreas and...

    Incorrect

    • The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery, the artery that supplies blood to the pancreas and the duodenum, is a branch of the:

      Your Answer: Coeliac artery

      Correct Answer: Gastroduodenal artery

      Explanation:

      The superior pancreaticoduodenal artery together with the right gastroepiploic artery form the two branches of the gastroduodenal artery which divides at the lower border of the duodenum.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Abdomen
      • Anatomy
      21.9
      Seconds
  • Question 186 - A 60 year-old patient being treated for hypertension presents to the ED with...

    Incorrect

    • A 60 year-old patient being treated for hypertension presents to the ED with swelling of the left upper limb due to poor venous return. On examination, it is found that an aneurysm of the ascending aorta is impinging on a large vein lying immediately anterosuperior to it. Which vein is it likely to be?

      Your Answer: Right Internal jugular vein

      Correct Answer: Left brachiocephalic

      Explanation:

      Among the veins listed, only the left brachiocephalic vein is anterosuperior to the ascending aorta. The right brachiocephalic vein being on the right side would not be affected by the aortic aneurysm.

      The azygos vein lies deep in the chest on the right side.

      The internal thoracic vein lies interior to the anterior wall of the chest.

      The left superior intercostal vein is close to the aortic arch, crossing it laterally. This vein drains the 2nd to 4th interspaces on the left side.

      The Right internal jugular vein joins the right brachiocephalic vein which would not be affected by the aneurysm.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      44.3
      Seconds
  • Question 187 - Following a lacerating injury along the anterior border of the trapezius muscle in...

    Incorrect

    • Following a lacerating injury along the anterior border of the trapezius muscle in the neck, a man has the point of his shoulder (scapula) sagging and he has difficulty with full abduction of his arm. Which nerve is most likely injured?

      Your Answer: Dorsal scapular

      Correct Answer: Accessory (cranial nerve XI)

      Explanation:

      Injury to the accessory nerve denervates the trapezius muscle so that the person will no longer be able to raise the acromion of the shoulder. The dorsal scapular nerve supplies the rhomboids i.e. major and minor and the levator scapulae so that injury to this nerve weakens retraction of the scapula. The greater occipital nerve is responsible for sensation of the posterior scalp. The axillary nerve innervates the deltoid muscle which is responsible for abduction of the arm and the suprascapular nerve is responsible for rotating the humerus laterally. Cutaneous nerves supply the skin.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      8.7
      Seconds
  • Question 188 - A 50 year old male point was diagnosed with tennis elbow that became...

    Incorrect

    • A 50 year old male point was diagnosed with tennis elbow that became worse after he started playing basket ball over the last three months. He was admitted to the orthopaedic ward to have elbow braces fitted. What type of synovial joint is the elbow joint?

      Your Answer: Ball and socket

      Correct Answer: Hinge

      Explanation:

      The elbow joint is one of the many synovial joints in the body. This joint is an example of the hinge joint as the humerus is received into the semilunar notch of the ulna and the capitulum of the humerus articulates with the fovea on the head of the radius, together acting as a hinge in one plane.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      36.7
      Seconds
  • Question 189 - A 14 year old girl suffers from haemophilia A and chronic knee pain...

    Incorrect

    • A 14 year old girl suffers from haemophilia A and chronic knee pain with progressive swelling and deformity over the last 4 years. Test results reveal a significantly reduced factor VIII activity. Which of the following is seen in the knee joint space after an acute painful episode?

      Your Answer: Neutrophils

      Correct Answer: Cholesterol crystals

      Explanation:

      Due to breakdown of the red blood cell membrane in haemophilic patients, cholesterol crystals are formed by the lipids. On the other hand lipofuscin deposition does not occur in haemolysis or haemorrhage. Neutrophil accumulation suggests acute inflammation. Anthracotic pigment is an exogenous carbon pigment that deposits in the lung from dust. Russell bodies are intracellular accumulations of immunoglobins in plasma cells. Curschmann’s spirals and Charcot Leyden crystals are pathognomonic of asthma.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Haematology
      • Pathology
      48.3
      Seconds
  • Question 190 - The following joint has an anastomotic circulation that is provided by branches of...

    Incorrect

    • The following joint has an anastomotic circulation that is provided by branches of the brachial artery:

      Your Answer: Scapula

      Correct Answer: Elbow joint

      Explanation:

      The arterial anastomoses of the elbow joint is contributed by branches of the brachial artery and the Profunda brachii artery. The brachial artery gives off the superior ulnar collateral artery and the inferior collateral artery. On the other hand, the Profunda brachii gives off the radial and medial recurrent arteries.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      14.6
      Seconds
  • Question 191 - A man came to the hospital complaining of a sensation of pins and...

    Correct

    • A man came to the hospital complaining of a sensation of pins and needles in the dorsum of the thumb and digits 1 and 2. On further examination they found that he had weakness in wrist dorsiflexion and finger extension. Which nerve do you think is injured in this case?

      Your Answer: Radial

      Explanation:

      The radial nerve can be injured in multiple sites along its course in the upper limb, and each site has its own presentation. The major complaint is wrist drop which if high above the elbow, can cause numbness of the forearm and hand. It can last for several days or weeks. The most common site of compression for the radial nerve is at the proximal forearm in the area of the supinator muscles.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Upper Limb
      16.6
      Seconds
  • Question 192 - Which of these antibiotics is the first choice treatment for infections caused by...

    Incorrect

    • Which of these antibiotics is the first choice treatment for infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa?

      Your Answer: Ampicillin

      Correct Answer: Piperacillin

      Explanation:

      Piperacillin is an extended-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic of the ureidopenicillin class. It is normally used with a beta-lactamase inhibitor such as tazobactam. The combination has activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens and anaerobes, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Piperacillin is sometimes referred to as an anti-pseudomonal penicillin.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Pharmacology
      16.1
      Seconds
  • Question 193 - Normally, the O2 transfer in the lungs from alveolar to capillary is perfusion-limited....

    Incorrect

    • Normally, the O2 transfer in the lungs from alveolar to capillary is perfusion-limited. In which of the following situations does it become a diffusion-limited process?

      Your Answer: Breathing hyperbaric gas mixture

      Correct Answer: Pulmonary oedema

      Explanation:

      Normally, the transfer of oxygen from air spaces to blood takes place across the alveolar-capillary membrane by simple diffusion and depends entirely on the amount of blood flow (perfusion-limited process). Diseases that affect this diffusion will transform the normal process to a diffusion limited process. Thus, the diseases which cause a thickened barrier (such as pulmonary oedema due to increased extravascular lung water or asbestosis) will limit the diffusion of oxygen. Chronic obstructive lung diseases will have little effect on diffusion. Inhaling hyperbaric gas mixtures might overcome the diffusion limitation in patients with mild asbestosis or interstitial oedema, by increasing the driving force. Strenuous (not mild) exercise might also favour diffusion limitation and decrease passage time. Increasing the rate of ventilation will not have this affect but will only maintain a high oxygen gradient from air to blood.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      26.3
      Seconds
  • Question 194 - A 45-year old with sarcoidosis has enlarged tracheobronchial lymph nodes. Which nerve is...

    Incorrect

    • A 45-year old with sarcoidosis has enlarged tracheobronchial lymph nodes. Which nerve is most likely to be irritated in this patient?

      Your Answer: Right recurrent laryngeal

      Correct Answer: Left recurrent laryngeal

      Explanation:

      Tracheobronchial lymph nodes are located at the bifurcation of the trachea and are in three groups i.e. the right superior, left superior and inferior. The aorta arches over the left bronchus near the point of tracheal bifurcation. Thus, the nerves that are closely associated with the aorta might be irritated if these nodes become inflamed. The left recurrent laryngeal nerve is such a nerve. The phrenic nerves, both the left and the right, are lateral and thus would not be affected. The right recurrent nerve loops around the right subclavian artery and is distant from this area. The right vagus artery is not associated with the aorta and the sympathetic chain is located in the posterior chest parallel to the vertebra, also not associated with the tracheobronchial tree.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Thorax
      12.6
      Seconds
  • Question 195 - Laboratory findings in a patient with dark urine and yellowish skin revealed a...

    Incorrect

    • Laboratory findings in a patient with dark urine and yellowish skin revealed a prolonged prothrombin time. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this finding?

      Your Answer: Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy 

      Correct Answer: Liver damage

      Explanation:

      Various conditions may prolong the prothrombin time (PT), including: warfarin use, vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, hypofibrinogenemia, heparin infusion, massive blood transfusion and hypothermia. Liver disease causes prolonging of PT due to diminished synthesis of clotting factors. Dark urine colour and jaundice are indicators of the presence of a liver disease in this patient.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Haematology
      • Pathology
      12.1
      Seconds
  • Question 196 - A 62-year-old man presented with a persistent cough and weight loss. Chest x-ray...

    Incorrect

    • A 62-year-old man presented with a persistent cough and weight loss. Chest x-ray demonstrated widespread nodular opacities. After a bronchoalveolar lavage, atypical cells were detected. Which is the most probable diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Sarcoidosis

      Correct Answer: Bronchioalveolar carcinoma

      Explanation:

      Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC) is a term used to define a particular subtype of adenocarcinoma which develops in cells near the alveoli, in the outer regions of the lungs. On a chest X-ray it can appear as a single peripheral spot or as scattered spots throughout the lungs. Symptoms include cough, haemoptysis, chest pain, dyspnoea and loss of weight.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Pathology
      • Respiratory
      4.7
      Seconds
  • Question 197 - A patient is diagnosed with a tumour of the parotid gland. During surgical...

    Incorrect

    • A patient is diagnosed with a tumour of the parotid gland. During surgical removal of the gland, which artery is vulnerable to injury?

      Your Answer: Internal Carotid artery

      Correct Answer: External carotid artery

      Explanation:

      The external carotid artery is a major artery of the head and neck. It arises from the common carotid artery when it splits into the external and internal carotid artery. It supplies blood to the face and neck. The external carotid artery begins opposite the upper border of the thyroid cartilage and, taking a slightly curved course, passes upward and forward and then inclines backward to the space behind the neck of the mandible, where it divides into the superficial temporal and internal maxillary arteries. It rapidly diminishes in size in its course up the neck, owing to the number and large size of the branches given off from it. At its origin, this artery is more superficial and placed nearer the midline than the internal carotid and is contained within the carotid triangle. The external carotid artery is covered by the skin, superficial fascia, platysma, deep fascia and anterior margin of the sternocleidomastoid. It is crossed by the hypoglossal nerve, by the lingual, ranine, common facial and superior thyroid veins; and by the digastric and stylohyoid; higher up it passes deeply into the substance of the parotid gland, where it lies deep to the facial nerve and the junction of the temporal and internal maxillary veins. It is here that it is in danger during surgery of the parotid gland.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      37.7
      Seconds
  • Question 198 - After a total colectomy and ileotomy, a 50-year old diabetic man who was...

    Incorrect

    • After a total colectomy and ileotomy, a 50-year old diabetic man who was a known case of diabetic nephropathy had persistent metabolic acidosis. The patient appeared well perfused, with normal vital signs and normal fluid balance. Investigations revealed:

      Sodium = 132 mmol/l

      Potassium = 6.6 mmol/l

      Creatinine = 185 μmol/l (2.16 mg/dl)

      Chloride = 109 μmol/l

      8am cortisol = 500 nmol/l (18 μg/dl)

      pH = 7.29, p(CO2) = 27 mmHg

      p(O2) = 107 mmHg

      standard bicarbonate = 12 mmol/l.

      What is the likely causes of his acidosis?

      Your Answer: Ischaemic bowel

      Correct Answer: Renal tubular acidosis

      Explanation:

      Acidosis here is due to low bicarbonate. The low p(CO2) is seen in compensation. The anion gap is normal, ruling out intra-abdominal ischaemia (which leads to metabolic acidosis). If it was a gastrointestinal aetiology, low potassium would be seen. The history of diabetic nephropathy predisposes to renal tubular acidosis. Type 4 (hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism) is associated with high potassium and is found in diabetic and hypertensive renal disease.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Physiology
      • Respiratory
      11.7
      Seconds
  • Question 199 - The optic foramen, superior orbital fissure, foramen ovale, foramen rotundum and foramen sinosum...

    Incorrect

    • The optic foramen, superior orbital fissure, foramen ovale, foramen rotundum and foramen sinosum are all located on which bone at the base of the skull?

      Your Answer: Parietal

      Correct Answer: Sphenoid

      Explanation:

      The sphenoid bone consists of two parts, a central part and two wing-like structures that extend sideways towards each side of the skull. It forms the base of the skull, and floor and sides of the orbit. On its central part lies the optic foramen. The foramen ovale, foramen spinosum and foramen rotundum lie on its great wing while the superior orbital fissure lies on its lesser wing.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Anatomy
      • Head & Neck
      11.4
      Seconds
  • Question 200 - In a cardiac cycle, what event does the opening of the atrioventricular (AV)...

    Incorrect

    • In a cardiac cycle, what event does the opening of the atrioventricular (AV) valves coincide with?

      Your Answer: End of diastole

      Correct Answer: Beginning of diastole

      Explanation:

      Cardiac diastole refers to the time period when the heart is relaxed after contraction and is preparing to refill with blood. Both ventricular and atrial diastole are together known as complete cardiac diastole. At its beginning, the ventricles relax, causing a drop in the ventricular pressure. As soon as the left ventricular pressure drops below that in left atrium, the mitral valve opens and there is ventricular filling of blood. Similarly, the tricuspid valve opens filling the right atrium.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • Cardiovascular
      • Physiology
      4.6
      Seconds

SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY

Abdomen (12/16) 75%
Anatomy (57/75) 76%
Orthopaedics (6/7) 86%
Pathology (55/74) 74%
Haematology (6/8) 75%
Endocrine (3/4) 75%
Head & Neck (13/19) 68%
Upper Limb (11/13) 85%
Thorax (9/12) 75%
Pelvis (5/6) 83%
General (8/12) 67%
Physiology (41/51) 80%
Respiratory (8/10) 80%
Gastroenterology (8/9) 89%
Neoplasia (2/5) 40%
Renal (3/8) 38%
Fluids & Electrolytes (5/7) 71%
Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Dermatology (2/2) 100%
Inflammation & Immunology; Renal (0/1) 0%
Microbiology (6/9) 67%
Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary (4/4) 100%
Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Cardiovascular (1/1) 100%
Inflammation & Immunology (3/5) 60%
Neurology (10/10) 100%
Urology (3/3) 100%
Pharmacology (3/3) 100%
Lower Limb (5/7) 71%
Cardiovascular (7/7) 100%
Endocrinology (1/1) 100%
Women's Health (4/4) 100%
Cell Injury & Wound Healing (4/5) 80%
Breast (1/1) 100%
Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Haematology (0/1) 0%
Passmed