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Question 1
Correct
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Raised alkaline phosphatase and positive antimitochondrial antibody indicates which of the following conditions presenting with pruritus?
Your Answer: Primary biliary cirrhosis
Explanation:An autoimmune disease, primary biliary cirrhosis results in destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts. This leads to cholestasis, cirrhosis and eventually, hepatic failure. Symptoms includes fatigue, pruritus and steatorrhea. Increased IgM levels, along with antimitochondrial antibodies are seen in the serum. Liver biopsy is diagnostic, and also aids in staging of disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 2
Incorrect
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Dysarthria, nystagmus and a tremor worsening with directed movement are likely to be seen in:
Your Answer: Spinal cord transection
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 3
Incorrect
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A 54-year-old woman is re-admitted to the hospital with shortness of breath and sharp chest pain 2 weeks after surgical cholecystectomy. The most probable cause of these clinical findings is:
Your Answer: Postoperative atelectasis
Correct Answer: Pulmonary embolus
Explanation:Pulmonary embolism is caused by the sudden blockage of a major lung blood vessel, usually by a blood clot. Symptoms include sudden sharp chest pain, cough, dyspnoea, palpitations, tachycardia or loss of consciousness. Risk factors for developing pulmonary embolism include long periods of inactivity, recent surgery, trauma, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, oestrogen replacement, malignancies and venous stasis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 4
Incorrect
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Evaluation of a 60-year old gentleman, who has been a coal miner all his life and is suspected to have pulmonary fibrosis reveals the following: normal FEV1, arterial oxygen saturation 92%, alveolar ventilation 6000 ml/min at a tidal volume of 600 ml and a breathing rate of 12 breaths/min. There are also pathological changes in lung compliance and residual volume. Which of the following is most accurate about his residual volume?
Your Answer: Is part of the expiratory reserve volume
Correct Answer: Cannot be measured directly with a spirometer
Explanation:Residual volume is the air left in the lungs after maximal expiration is done. Thus, this is not a part of vital capacity and cannot be measured with a spirometer directly. It can be measured by the methods such as body plethysmography or inert gas dilution. Expiratory reserve volume is vital capacity minus inspiratory capacity. Resting volume of lungs is he sum of residual volume and expiratory reserve volume. Lungs recoil inward until the recoil pressure becomes zero, which corresponds to a volume significantly lower than residual volume.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 5
Incorrect
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A blood sample of a 58 year old male patient, who underwent an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, was sent to the laboratory. The laboratory technician said that the patient’s blood agglutinates with antisera anti-A and anti-D, while the patient’s serum agglutinates cells of blood group B. What is the blood group of this patient?
Your Answer: 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
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 6
Correct
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The annular ligament in the forearm:
Your Answer: Encircles the head of the radius
Explanation:The annular ligament forms about four-fifths of the osseofibrous ring and is attached to the anterior and posterior margins of the radial notch. It is a strong band of fibres which encircles the head of the radius retaining it in contact with the radial notch of the ulna. When it comes to its upper border, it blends with the anterior and posterior ligament of the elbow.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 7
Correct
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Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep is typically associated with:
Your Answer: Penile erections
Explanation:Normal sleep comprises of alternate cycles between slow-wave sleep (non-REM sleep) and REM sleep. REM sleep is characterized by increased metabolic brain activity and EEG desynchronization. Somnambulism (sleepwalking), enuresis (bedwetting) and night terrors all occur during slow-wave sleep or during arousal from slow-wave sleep. In comparison, REM sleep is characterized by hypotonia of major muscle groups (excluding ocular muscles), dreams, nightmares and penile erection.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 8
Correct
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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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 9
Incorrect
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A 77-year-old woman's renal function is tested. The following results were obtained during a 24-h period:
Urine flow rate: 2. 0 ml/min
Urine inulin: 0.5 mg/ml
Plasma inulin: 0.02 mg/ml
Urine urea: 220 mmol/l
Plasma urea: 5 mmol/l.
What is the urea clearance?Your Answer: 22 ml/min
Correct Answer: 88 ml/min
Explanation:Urea is reabsorbed in the inner medullary collecting ducts of the nephrons. The clearance (C) of any substance can be calculated as follows: C = (U × V)/P, where U and P are the urine and plasma concentrations of the substance, respectively and V is the urine flow rate. So, glomerular filtration rate = (0.220 × 2. 0)/0.005 = 88 ml/min.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 10
Incorrect
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Elevated mean corpuscular volume with hypersegmented neutrophils and low reticulocyte index is seen in on the blood count of a middle-aged lady about to undergo elective surgery. On enquiry, she mentions feeling tired for a few months. Which of the following investigations should be carried out in her to reach a diagnosis?
Your Answer: Bone marrow biopsy
Correct Answer: Serum vitamin B12 and folate
Explanation:Elevated levels of MCV indicates megaloblastic anaemia, which are associated with hypersegmented neutrophils. Likely causes include vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. Megaloblastic anaemia results from defective synthesis of DNA. As RNA production continues, the cells enlarge with a large nucleus. The cytoplasmic maturity becomes greater than nuclear maturity. Megaloblasts are produced initially in the marrow, before blood. Dyspoiesis makes erythropoiesis ineffective, causing direct hyperbilirubinemia and hyperuricemia. As all cell lines are affected, reticulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia develop. Large, oval blood cells (macro-ovalocytes) are released in the circulation, along with presence of hypersegmented neutrophils.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 11
Correct
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A young man came to the emergency room after an accident. The anterior surface of his wrist was lacerated with loss of sensation over the thumb side of his palm. Which nerves have been damaged?
Your Answer: Median
Explanation:The median nerve provides cutaneous innervation to the skin of the palmar radial three and a half fingers. Also the site of injury indicates that the medial nerve may have been injured as it passes into the hand by crossing over the anterior wrist.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 12
Incorrect
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A 43-year-old diabetic man complains of headaches, palpitations, anxiety, abdominal pain and weakness. He is administered sodium bicarbonate used to treat:
Your Answer: Respiratory acidosis
Correct Answer: Metabolic acidosis
Explanation:Sodium bicarbonate is indicated in the management of metabolic acidosis, which may occur in severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, circulatory insufficiency due to shock or severe dehydration, extracorporeal circulation of blood, cardiac arrest and severe primary lactic acidosis. Bicarbonate is given at 50-100 mmol at a time under scrupulous monitoring of the arterial blood gas readings. This intervention, however, has some serious complications including lactic acidosis, and in those cases, should be used with great care.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 13
Incorrect
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A 41 year old women presents with a history of carcinoma involving the right breast with enlarged axillary nodes on the same side. She underwent mastectomy and axillary node clearance. These were sent for histopathological examination. They showed no signs of metastasis. What could be cause of this enlargement in the lymph nodes?
Your Answer: Tuberculosis
Correct Answer: Sinus histiocytosis
Explanation:Sinus histiocytosis also referred to as reticular hyperplasia, refers to the enlargement, distention and prominence of the sinusoids of the lymph nodes. This is a non-specific form of hyperplasia characteristically seen in lymph nodes that drain tumours. The endothelial lining of the lymph node becomes markedly hypertrophied, along with an increase in the number of macrophages which results in the distortion, distention and enlargement of the sinus. In this scenario there is no evidence that an infection or another malignancy could account for the enlargement. Paracortical lymphoid hyperplasia is caused by an immune response.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Female Health
- Pathology
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Question 14
Incorrect
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Which statement is correct regarding coagulation?
Your Answer: Vitamin K is an essential co-factor for hepatic synthesis of factor VIII
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 15
Incorrect
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A 18-year old girl presents to her doctor with an excessively enlarged left breast as compared to the right breast since puberty. The most likely cause for this is:
Your Answer: Cystosarcoma phyllodes
Correct Answer: Virginal breast hypertrophy
Explanation:Virginal breast hypertrophy’ is the term assigned to excessive growth of breasts during puberty and is a common phenomenon. It is also known as ‘juvenile macromastia’ or ‘ juvenile gigantomastia’. The breast hypertrophy often starts with menarche and occasionally occurs in growth spurts. These spurts can cause physical discomfort, red and itchy skin or pain in the breasts. The breasts can also grow continuously over several years and lead to overdevelopment of a normal breast. Nipples also undergo enlargement along with the breasts.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 16
Incorrect
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Which is a feature of the action of insulin?
Your Answer: Promotes calcium release from bone
Correct Answer: Promotes protein synthesis
Explanation:Insulin is produced by the beta-cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Its actions include:
– promoting uptake of glucose into cells
– glycogen synthesis (glycogenesis)
– protein synthesis
– stimulation of lipogenesis (fat formation).
– driving potassium into cells – used to treat hyperkaelamia.
Parathyroid hormone and activated vitamin D are the principal hormones involved in calcium/phosphate metabolism, rather than insulin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Physiology
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Question 17
Incorrect
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If a catheter is placed in the main pulmonary artery of a healthy 30-year-old woman, which of the following will be its mean pulmonary arterial pressure?
Your Answer: 95 mm Hg
Correct Answer: 15 mmHg
Explanation:The pulmonary artery pressure (PA pressure) is a measure of the blood pressure found in the main pulmonary artery. The hydrostatic pressure of the pulmonary circulation refers to the actual pressure inside pulmonary vessels relative to atmospheric pressure. Hydrostatic (blood pressure) in the pulmonary vascular bed is low compared with that of similar systemic vessels. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure is about 15 mmHg (ranging from about 13 to 19 mmHg) and is much lower than the average systemic arterial pressure of 90 mmHg.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 18
Incorrect
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A specialist registrar was performing the bi-lateral surgical removal of the adrenal glands. He first removed the left adrenal gland before moving on to the right one. However, the registrar noticed that the removal of the right adrenal gland would be a challenge because of an overlying structure. What was this structure that overlies the right suprarenal glad?
Your Answer: Right renal artery
Correct Answer: Inferior vena cava
Explanation:The adrenal glands or the suprarenal glands are small glands that are found on top of each of the kidneys. They are retroperitoneal glands. The right adrenal gland is found on top of the right kidney and is closely associated with the inferior vena cava as it directly drains into this large vein. In the case where the right adrenal gland is to be surgically removed, the inferior vena cava might prove a problem to manoeuvre as it overlies the right suprarenal gland. The other blood vessels such as the aorta, right renal, superior mesenteric, splenic artery and the hepatic vein as well as the right crus are not closely associated with either of the suprarenal glands.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 19
Incorrect
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A 59-year-old woman with hyperaldosteronism is prescribed a diuretic. Which of the following diuretics promotes diuresis by opposing the action of aldosterone?
Your Answer: Mannitol
Correct Answer: Potassium-sparing diuretic
Explanation:The term potassium-sparing refers to an effect rather than a mechanism or location. Potassium-sparing diuretics act by either antagonising the action of aldosterone (spironolactone) or inhibiting Na+ reabsorption in the distal tubules (amiloride). This group of drugs is often used as adjunctive therapy, in combination with other drugs, for the management of chronic heart failure. Spironolactone, the first member of the class, is also used in the management of hyperaldosteronism (including Conn’s syndrome) and female hirsutism (due to additional antiandrogen actions).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 20
Incorrect
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A 42-year old woman presents to the doctor with jaundice. Her investigations show conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, raised urine bilirubin levels and low urine urobilinogen levels. What is the likely cause of her jaundice?
Your Answer: Primary shunt hyperbilirubinemia
Correct Answer: Blockage of the common bile duct
Explanation:The description of the patient here fits the diagnosis of obstructive jaundice or cholestasis, which results in conjugated hyperbilirubinemia. Cholestasis occurs due to impairment of bile flow, which can be anywhere from the liver cell canaliculus to the ampulla of Vater. Causes can be divided into intrahepatic and extrahepatic.
– Intrahepatic causes include hepatitis, drug toxicity, alcoholic liver disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, cholestasis of pregnancy and metastatic cancer.
– Extrahepatic causes include common duct stone, pancreatic cancer, benign stricture of the common duct, ductal carcinoma, pancreatitis and sclerosing cholangitis.
There is absence of bile constituents in the intestine, which causes spillage in the systemic circulation. Symptoms include pale stools, dark urine, pruritus, malabsorption leading to steatorrhea and deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins. Chronic cases can result in osteoporosis or osteomalacia due to vitamin D deficiency and Ca2+ malabsorption. Cholesterol and phospholipid retention produces hyperlipidaemia despite fat malabsorption (although increased liver synthesis and decreased plasma esterification of cholesterol also contribute); triglyceride levels are largely unaffected. The lipids circulate as a unique, low-density lipoprotein called lipoprotein X.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 21
Incorrect
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A 31 -year-old female patient had a blood gas done on presentation to the emergency department. She was found to have a metabolic acidosis and decreased anion gap. The most likely cause of these findings in this patient would be?
Your Answer: Lactic acidosis
Correct Answer: Hypoalbuminemia
Explanation:A low anion gap might be caused by alterations in serum protein levels, primarily albumin (hypoalbuminemia), increased levels of calcium (hypercalcaemia) and magnesium (hypermagnesemia) or bromide and lithium intoxication. However, the commonest cause is hypoalbuminemia, thus if the albumin concentration falls, the anion gap will also be lower. The anion gap should be corrected upwards by 2.5 mmol/l for every 10g/l fall in the serum albumin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 22
Incorrect
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Which one of the following groups of lymph nodes is most likely to be inflamed due to paronychia involving the big toe?
Your Answer: Lateral group of superficial inguinal lymph nodes
Correct Answer: Vertical group of superficial inguinal lymph nodes
Explanation:Paronychia affecting the big toe will result in inflammation of the superficial inguinal lymph nodes as it drains lymph from the big toe.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 23
Incorrect
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Which of the following tumours is very radiosensitive?
Your Answer: Ovarian malignancy
Correct Answer: Seminoma
Explanation:Seminoma is the most radiosensitive tumour and responds well to radiation therapy after unilateral orchidectomy. The ipsilateral inguinal areas are routinely not treated however, depending on the stage, the mediastinum and the left supraclavicular regions may also be irradiated.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia; Urology
- Pathology
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Question 24
Incorrect
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An old woman complains of a lack of sensation halfway down the anterior surface of the thigh. The cause of this:
Your Answer: Would result from damage to a nerve accompanying the artery in the adductor canal
Correct Answer: Would result from damage to the nerve that innervates the pectineus muscle
Explanation:The pectineus is supplied by the second, third and fourth lumbar nerves through the femoral nerve and by the third lumbar through the accessory obturator when it exists. The anterior surface of the thigh receives its innervation from the femoral nerve as well, thus this is the nerve most likely to be injured
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 25
Incorrect
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A 34-year-old woman with severe burns, presented to casualty with a blood pressure of 75/40 mmHg and pulse of 172/minute. Obviously the patient is in shock. Which type of shock is it more likely to be?
Your Answer: Neurogenic shock
Correct Answer: Hypovolaemic shock
Explanation:Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the organs and tissues of the body are not receiving a sufficient flow of blood. Lack of blood flow, oxygen and nutrients results in the inability to function properly and damage to many organs. Shock requires immediate treatment because, if left untreated the impaired tissue perfusion and cellular hypoxia can cause irreversible tissue injury, collapse, coma or even death. There are various types of physiological shock, including: cardiogenic (due to heart damage), hypovolaemic (due to low total volume of blood or plasma), neurogenic (due to nervous system damage), septic (due to infections) and anaphylactic shock (due to allergic reactions). Hypovolaemic shock can be caused by blood loss due to trauma, internal bleeding or other fluid loss due to severe burns, prolonged diarrhoea, vomiting and sweating.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 26
Incorrect
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Muscles and tendons in the planter region of the foot mainly take blood supply from:
Your Answer: Popliteal artery
Correct Answer: Posterior tibial artery
Explanation:The posterior tibial artery is the main source of blood supply to the posterior compartment of the leg.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 27
Incorrect
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A 7-year-old boys undergoes a testicular biopsy after a tumour is found in his right testis. Elements similar to hair and teeth are found in it. What kind of tumour is this?
Your Answer: Choriocarcinoma
Correct Answer: Teratoma
Explanation:A teratoma is a tumour containing tissue elements that are similar to normal derivatives of more than one germ layer. They usually contain skin, hair, teeth and bone tissue and are more common in children, behaving as a benign tumour. After puberty, they are regarded as malignant and can metastasise.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 28
Incorrect
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What is the action of the muscle of the orbit that originates on the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, just above the optic foramen?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Elevation of the upper eyelid
Explanation:The levator palpebrae superioris is the muscle in the orbit that elevates the superior (upper) eyelid. The levator palpebrae superioris originates on the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, just above the optic foramen and receives somatic motor input from the ipsilateral superior division of the oculomotor nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 29
Incorrect
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When a patient is standing erect, pleural fluid would tend to accumulate in which part of the pleural space?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Costodiaphragmatic recess
Explanation:The costo-diaphragmatic recess is the lowest extent of the pleural cavity or sac. Any fluid in the pleura will by gravity accumulate here when a patient is standing erect.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 30
Incorrect
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A 51-year old woman after undergoing a barium swallowing was discovered to be suffering from an oesophageal hiatal hernia. Which muscle fibres of the diaphragm border this hernia directly if the stomach herniates through an enlarged oesophageal hiatus?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Right crus
Explanation:The oesophageal hiatus is a natural fissure on the thoracic diaphragm that allows passage of the oesophagus and the vagal nerve. The oesophageal hiatus is located in one of the tendinous structures of the diaphragm that connect it to the spine which is known as the right crus. In case of an hiatal hernia, this diaphragmatic structure would be the one bordering the hernia as it is the structure that encircles the oesophageal hiatus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 31
Incorrect
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A 60-year old man with a left-sided indirect inguinal hernia underwent emergency surgery to relieve large bowel obstruction resulting from a segment of the bowel being strangulated in the hernial sac. The most likely intestinal segment involved is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Sigmoid colon
Explanation:The sigmoid colon is the most likely segment involved as it is mobile due to the presence of the sigmoid mesocolon. The descending colon, although on the left side, is a bit superior and is also retroperitoneal. The ascending colon and caecum are on the right side of the abdomen. The rectum is too inferior to enter the deep inguinal ring and the transverse colon is too superior to be involved.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 32
Incorrect
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Perforin are present in the granules of which cell?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Natural killer cell
Explanation:Perforins are characteristically found In the granules of CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells. They are cytolytic proteins that insert into the target plasma membrane forming a hole and resulting in lysis. They along with granzyme B induce apoptosis in the target cell.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 33
Incorrect
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a medical condition that occurs in critically ill patients, and can be triggered by events such as trauma and sepsis. Which of the following variables is most likely to be lower than normal in a patient with ARDS?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Lung compliance
Explanation:Acute (or Adult) respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a medical condition occurring in critically ill patients characterized by widespread inflammation in the lungs. The development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) starts with damage to the alveolar epithelium and vascular endothelium, resulting in increased permeability to plasma and inflammatory cells. These cells pass into the interstitium and alveolar space, resulting in pulmonary oedema. Damage to the surfactant-producing type II cells and the presence of protein-rich fluid in the alveolar space disrupt the production and function of pulmonary surfactant, leading to micro atelectasis and impaired gas exchange. The pathophysiological consequences of lung oedema in ARDS include a decrease in lung volumes, compliance and large intrapulmonary shunts. ARDS may be seen in the setting of pneumonia, sepsis, following trauma, multiple blood transfusions, severe burns, severe pancreatitis, near-drowning, drug reactions, or inhalation injuries.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 34
Incorrect
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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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 35
Incorrect
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A 68-year-old woman complains of headaches, dizziness, and memory loss. About a month ago, she fell from a staircase but only suffered mild head trauma. What is the most likely diagnosis in this case?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Chronic subdural haematoma
Explanation:A quarter to a half of patients with chronic subdural haematoma have no identifiable history of head trauma. If a patient does have a history of head trauma, it usually is mild. The average time between head trauma and chronic subdural haematoma diagnosis is 4–5 weeks. Symptoms include decreased level of consciousness, balance problems, cognitive dysfunction and memory loss, motor deficit (e.g. hemiparesis), headache or aphasia. Some patients present acutely. They usually result from tears in bridging veins which cross the subdural space, and may cause an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 36
Incorrect
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A patient had sudden complete loss of vision of the right eye. Fundoscopy showed the distinct cherry red spot on the retina. Which of the following arteries was occluded?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Central artery of the retina
Explanation:The central retinal artery supplies all the nerve fibres that form the optic nerve, which carries the visual information to the lateral geniculate nucleus of the thalamus. Thus if the central retinal artery gets occluded, there is complete loss of vision in that eye and the entire retina (with the exception of the fovea) becomes pale, swollen and opaque while the central fovea still appears reddish (this is because the choroid colour shows through). This is the basis of the famous Cherry red spot seen on examination of the retina on fundoscopy of a central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 37
Incorrect
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Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) has less side effects than heparin and is used in the prophylaxis and treatment of venous and arterial thrombotic disorders. Which of the following is LMWHs mechanism of action?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Inhibition of factor Xa
Explanation:Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is a anticoagulant that differs from normal heparin in that it has only short chains of polysaccharide. LMWH inhibits thrombin formation by converting antithrombin from a slow to a rapid inactivator of coagulation factor Xa.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 38
Incorrect
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A 25 year-old female medical student presents with fever, lack of appetite, rashes, sore throat and lymphadenopathy. Peripheral smear shows atypical lymphocytes. Which is the most likely organism responsible for this patient's condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Epstein–Barr virus
Explanation:Epstein-Barr virus is in the herpes family of viruses and most people will become infected with EBV sometime during their lives. EBV commonly causes infectious mononucleosis, or mono, a contagious viral illness that initially attacks the lymph nodes in the neck and throat. When these tissues become less effective in fighting infection, sore throats, swelling of the nodes and fever may result.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 39
Incorrect
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A 20 year lady is brought to the A&E following a road accident. She is hypotensive and a CT scan of the abdomen reveals a shattered spleen. An emergency splenectomy is performed where the splenic artery is ligated right at its origin. Which of the following arteries will have a diminished blood flow owing to ligation of the splenic artery at its origin?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left gastroepiploic
Explanation:Ligation of the splenic artery right at its point of origin should cut off blood flow in its branches. The following are the branches of the splenic artery: pancreatic branches, short gastric branches and left gastroepiploic arteries.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 40
Incorrect
-
A pedestrian sustained a left fibula fractured following a hit-and-run. X-rays showed that there was a transverse fracture of the upper end of the fibula. It was manifested clinically by inability to flex his foot at the ankle joint plus weak extension of the phalanges. What nerve is suspected to be injured in such a case?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Deep peroneal
Explanation:The deep peroneal nerve supplies the muscles allowing for flexion of the foot at the ankle joint, namely the tibialis anterior and peroneus tertius muscles. The peroneus tertius, peroneus brevis, and peroneus longus evert the foot, whereas the tibialis anterior and tibialis posterior invert the foot. Fibres of the deep peroneal nerve originate from L4, L5, and S1.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 41
Incorrect
-
Which of the following statements regarding the arteries in the neck are TRUE?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: The thyrocervical trunk typically gives rise to the inferior thyroid artery, transverse cervical artery and suprascapular artery
Explanation:The thyrocervical trunk is one of the three branches of the first part of the subclavian artery and gives numerous branches which supply viscera of the neck, the brachial plexus, neck muscles and scapular anastomoses. The vertebral arteries are major arteries of the neck. They arise as branches from the subclavian arteries and merge to form the single midline basilar artery. The carotid sinus is a dilated area at the base of the internal carotid artery just superior to the bifurcation of the internal carotid and external carotid at the level of the superior border of thyroid cartilage.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 42
Incorrect
-
A 45-year-old-female is suspected to have a pulmonary mass. Supposing that she has a neoplasm, which of the following are most commonly found to involve the lung:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulmonary metastases
Explanation:Lung metastases occur when a cancer started in another part of the body (primary site) spreads to the lungs. The lungs are among the most common site where cancer can spread due to its rich systemic venous drainage, almost every type of cancer can spread to the lung. The most common types of cancer that spread to the lung are breast, colorectal, kidney, testicular, bladder, prostate, head and neck cancers.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 43
Incorrect
-
A 46-year old female patient experienced a stroke that affected her glossopharyngeal nerve. Damage to the glossopharyngeal nerve would most likely:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Result in general sensory deficit to the pharynx
Explanation:The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) has many functions which include:
– Contributes to the pharyngeal plexus
– Receiving general somatic sensory fibres from the tonsils, pharynx, the middle ear and the posterior third of the tongue.
– supplies motor fibres to only one muscle; the stylopharyngeus muscle.
– provides parasympathetic fibres to the parotid gland via the otic ganglion.
– Receives visceral sensory fibres from the carotid bodies & carotid sinus.
– Receives special visceral sensory fibres from the posterior third of the tongue.
The above functions will directly be affected by the damage of the glossopharyngeal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 44
Incorrect
-
Which of the following muscles is innervated by the inferior branch of the right recurrent laryngeal nerve?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 45
Incorrect
-
The anatomical dead space in a patient with low oxygen saturation, is 125 ml, with a tidal volume of 500 ml and pa(CO2) of 40 mm Hg. The dead space was determined by Fowler's method. If we assume that the patient's lungs are healthy, what will his mixed expired CO2 tension [pE(CO2)] be?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 30 mmHg
Explanation:According to Bohr’s equation, VD/VT = (pA(CO2) − pE(CO2))/pA(CO2), where pE(CO2) is mixed expired CO2 and pA(CO2) is alveolar CO2pressure. Normally, the pa(CO2) is virtually identical to pA(CO2). Thus, VD/VT = (pa(CO2)) − pE(CO2)/pa(CO2). By Fowler’s method, VD/VT= 0.25. In the given problem, (pa(CO2) − pE(CO2)/pa(CO2) = (40 − pE(CO2)/40 = 0.25. Thus, pE(CO2) = 30 mmHg. If there is a great perfusion/ventilation inequality, pE(CO2) could be significantly lower than 30 mm Hg, and the patient’s physiological dead space would exceed the anatomical dead space.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 46
Incorrect
-
The extent of cancer growth can be described through staging. What is taken into consideration when staging a cancer?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Local invasion
Explanation:Cancer stage is based on four characteristics: the size of cancer, whether the cancer is invasive or non-invasive, whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, in this case beyond the breast. Staging is important as it is often a good predictor of outcomes and treatment is adjusted accordingly.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 47
Incorrect
-
What is the primary function of the Kupffer cells found in the liver?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Recycling of old red blood cells
Explanation:Kupffer cells found in the liver are part of the monocyte-reticular system. They are specialised macrophages and primarily function to recycle old and damaged RBCs. The RBCs are phagocytosed and the haemoglobin is broken down into haem and globin. The haem is further broken down into iron that is recycled and bilirubin that is conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in the bile.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 48
Incorrect
-
The superior rectal artery is a continuation of the:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Inferior mesenteric artery
Explanation:The superior rectal artery or superior haemorrhoidal artery is the continuation of the inferior mesenteric artery. It descends into the pelvis between the layers of the mesentery of the sigmoid colon, crossing the left common iliac artery and vein.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 49
Incorrect
-
A cyclist fell and sustained a laceration to his elbow which was shortly sutured in the emergency department. Which of the following factors will aid in the wound healing process?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Presence of sutures
Explanation:Foreign bodies including sutures will delay wound healing, however due to the net affect being helpful they are used. Secondary wound infection will delay healing and is a potential post op complication. Corticosteroids depresses the wound healing ability of the body. Poor nutrition will also delay healing leading to decreased albumin, vit D and vit C. Diabetic patients with atherosclerosis with poor perfusion of tissues have notoriously delayed/poor healing.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 50
Incorrect
-
A lesion involving the suprachiasmatic nucleus of hypothalamus is likely to affect:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Regulation of circadian rhythm
Explanation:The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus is responsible for controlling endogenous circadian rhythms and destruction of the SCN leads to a loss of circadian rhythm.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 51
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:
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).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Neurology
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Question 52
Incorrect
-
A 65-year old man, known with Type 2 diabetes and chronic renal failure, is likely to eventually present with which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Secondary hyperparathyroidism
Explanation:When the parathyroid glands secrete excess parathyroid hormone (PTH) in response to hypocalcaemia, it is known as Secondary hyperparathyroidism and is often seen in patients with renal failure. In chronic renal failure, the kidneys fail to excrete adequate phosphorus and also fail to convert enough vitamin D to its active form. This leads to formation of insoluble calcium phosphate in the body which ultimately causes hypocalcaemia. The glands then undergo hyperplasia and hypertrophy leading to secondary hyperparathyroidism. Symptoms include bone and joint pains, along with limb deformities. The raised PTH also results in pleiotropic effects on blood, the immune system and nervous system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Pathology
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Question 53
Incorrect
-
A 25-year-old female had a painful abdomen and several episodes of vomiting. She was severely dehydrated when she was brought to the hospital. Her ABG showed a pH 7.7, p(O2) 75 mmHg, p(CO2) 46 mmHg and bicarbonate 48 mmol/l. The most likely interpretation of this ABG report would be:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metabolic alkalosis
Explanation:Metabolic alkalosis is a primary increase in bicarbonate (HCO3−) with or without compensatory increase in carbon dioxide partial pressure (Pco2); pH may be high or nearly normal. Metabolic alkalosis occurs as a consequence of a loss of H+ from the body or a gain in HCO3 -. In its pure form, it manifests as alkalemia (pH >7.40). As a compensatory mechanism, metabolic alkalosis leads to alveolar hypoventilation with a rise in arterial carbon dioxide tension p(CO2), which diminishes the change in pH that would otherwise occur. Normally, arterial p(CO2) increases by 0.5–0.7 mmHg for every 1 mmol/l increase in plasma bicarbonate concentration, a compensatory response that occurs very rapidly. If the change in p(CO2) is not within this range, then a mixed acid–base disturbance occurs. Likewise, if the increase in p(CO2) is less than the expected change, then a primary respiratory alkalosis is also present. However an elevated serum bicarbonate concentration can also occur due to a compensatory response to primary respiratory acidosis. A bicarbonate concentration greater than 35 mmol/l is almost always caused by metabolic alkalosis (as is the case in this clinical scenario). Calculation of the serum anion gap can also help to differentiate between primary metabolic alkalosis and the metabolic compensation for respiratory acidosis. The anion gap is frequently elevated to a modest degree in metabolic alkalosis because of the increase in the negative charge of albumin and the enhanced production of lactate. However, the only definitive way to diagnose metabolic alkalosis is by performing a simultaneous blood gases analysis, which reveals elevation of both pH and arterial p(CO2) and increased calculated bicarbonate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 54
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is a fact worth noting about the development of the spleen?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: It develops in the dorsal mesogastrium
Explanation:The spleen in the human embryo arises in week 5 of intrauterine life. It appears as a proliferating mesenchyme above the pancreas. The spleen is one the organs that develops in the dorsal mesogastrium. When the stomach changes its position during development, the spleen is made to move behind the stomach and stays in contact with the left kidney. The spleen is found within the peritoneum of the abdominal cavity thus it is an intraperitoneal organ.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 55
Incorrect
-
Calculate the pulmonary vascular resistance in an adult male with the following parameters:
Heart rate 70 beats/min
Arterial [O2] 0.24 ml O2/min
Venous [O2] 0.16 ml O2/mi
Whole body O2 consumption 500 ml/min
Pulmonary diastolic pressure 15 mmHg
Pulmonary systolic pressure 25 mmHg
Wedge pressure 5 mmHg.Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 2.0 resistance units (mmHg/l per min)
Explanation:Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) = (Mean pulmonary artery pressure – Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure) divided by Cardiac output. To get cardiac output, Fick’s principle needs to be applied which states that VO2 = (CO × CAO2) – (CO × CVO2) where VO2 = oxygen consumption, CO = cardiac output, CA = oxygen concentration of arterial blood and CVO2 = oxygen concentration of venous blood. Thus, CO = VO2/CAO2– CVO2, CO = 500/0.24–0.16, CO = 500/0.8, CO = 6.25 l/min. To calculate mean pulmonary artery pressure, we use the formula: Mean pulmonary artery pressure = Diastolic pressure + 1/3(Systolic pressure – Diastolic pressure). Thus, Mean pulmonary artery pressure = 15 + 1/3(25 – 15) = 15 + 3. 33 = 18.33. Substituting these values in the first formula, PVR = 18.3–5/6.25 = 13.5/5.25 = 2.0 resistance units (mmHg/l per min) approximately.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 56
Incorrect
-
A Monospot test in a 17-year old boy presenting with fever, multiple palpable lymph nodes and mild icterus was positive. His blood investigation is likely to show which of the following?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Atypical lymphocytosis
Explanation:Epstein-Barr virus is the causative agent for infectious mononucleosis leading to presence of atypical lymphocytes in blood. Usually symptomatic in older children and adults, the incubation period is 30-50 days. Symptoms include fatigue, followed by fever, adenopathy and pharyngitis. Fatigue can last for months and is maximum in first few weeks. Fever spikes in the afternoon or early evening, with temperature around 39.5 – 40.5 °C. The ‘typhoidal’ form where fatigue and fever predominate has a low onset and resolution. Pharyngitis resemble that due to streptococcus and can be severe and painful. Lymphadenopathy is bilaterally symmetrical and can involve any nodes, specially the cervical ones. Mild splenomegaly is seen in 50% cases, usually in 2-3rd week. Mild tender hepatomegaly can occur. Less common manifestations include maculopapular eruptions, jaundice, periorbital oedema and palatal enanthema. Diagnostic tests include full blood count and a heterophil antibody test. Morphologically abnormal lymphocytes account for 80% cells and are heterogenous, unlike leukaemia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 57
Incorrect
-
Endometrial hyperplasia is most likely to be associated with which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fibrothecoma
Explanation:A benign tumour arising from the ovarian stroma, fibrothecoma are bilateral in 10% cases. The thecoma component of the tumour can produce oestrogen leading to endometrial hyperplasia. The thecoma is rich in lipid content and is responsible for the yellowish appearance of the tumour. Meig’s syndrome is the presence of fibrothecoma with a right-sided hydrothorax.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 58
Incorrect
-
Lateral medullary syndrome, also known as Wallenberg's syndrome is a neurological condition caused by ischaemia in the lateral part of the medulla oblongata and is commonly associated with numerous neurological symptoms. Which of the following arteries when occluded leads to this condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Posterior inferior cerebellar
Explanation:The lateral medullary syndrome or Wallenberg’s disease is also known as posterior inferior cerebellar artery syndrome (PICA). This syndrome is a clinical manifestation of the occlusion of the posterior cerebellar artery that results in symptoms of infarction of the lateral medullary oblongata. Other arteries that contribute to blood flow in to this region such are the vertebral artery, superior middle cerebellar and inferior medullary arteries can also result to this syndrome when occluded.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 59
Incorrect
-
A 25 year old women is pregnant with her second child. She is A- blood group. Her first child was Rh+ and the father is also Rh+. The second child is at a risk of developing which condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Haemolytic disease of the new-born
Explanation:This infant is at risk for haemolytic disease of the new born also known as erythroblastosis fetalis. In the pregnancy, Rh-positive RBC’s cross the placenta and enter the mothers blood system. She then becomes sensitised and forms IgG antibodies/anti-Rh antibodies against them. The second child is at a greater risk for this disease than the first child with Rh-positive blood group as during the second pregnancy, a more powerful response is produced. IgG has the ability to cross the placenta and bind to the fetal RBCs (type II hypersensitivity reaction) which are phagocytosed by the macrophages.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology; Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 60
Incorrect
-
The pattern of drainage of the lymphatic and venous systems of the anterior abdominal wall is arranged around a horizontal plane above which drainage is in a cranial direction and below which drainage is in a caudal direction. Which horizontal plane is being referred to?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Level of the umbilicus
Explanation:The umbilicus is a key landmark for the lymphatic and venous drainage of the abdominal wall. Above it, lymphatics drain into the axillary lymph nodes and the venous blood drains into the superior epigastric vein, into the internal thoracic vein. Below it, lymphatics drain into the superficial inguinal lymph nodes while venous blood drains into the inferior epigastric vein and the external iliac vein.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 61
Incorrect
-
Which cells are most commonly seen in a granulomatous lesion that suggests an underlying chronic inflammation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Lymphocytes
Explanation:Lymphocytes and monocytes are commonly and characteristically recognised in a case of chronic inflammation.
Eosinophils and neutrophils are seen with acute inflammation.
Mast cells release histamine in early inflammation.
Basophils are seen with allergies.
Plasma cells are seen with viral infection.
Platelets are not characteristic of any type of inflammation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Inflammation & Immunology
- Pathology
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Question 62
Incorrect
-
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:
Correct 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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 63
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 64
Incorrect
-
Whipple's procedure involves mobilizing the head of the pancreas. As the surgeon does this, he must be careful to avoid injury to a key structure that is found lying behind the head of the pancreas. Which vital structure is this?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Common bile duct
Explanation:The posterior relations of the head of the pancreas include: the inferior vena cava, the common bile duct, the renal veins, the right crus of the diaphragm and the aorta.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 65
Incorrect
-
In a splenectomy procedure, special care is emphasized on the preservation of the tail of the pancreas that is closely associated with the spleen to avoid post operative pancreatic fistula. As a general surgeon conducting a splenectomy where are you most likely to find the tail of the pancreas in the abdominal cavity?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Splenorenal ligament
Explanation:The tail of the pancreas is the only intraperitoneal part of the pancreas and is found contained in the splenorenal ligament of the peritoneal cavity. The splenorenal ligament is derived from the peritoneum where the wall of the general peritoneal cavity connects to the omental bursa between the spleen and the left kidney. This ligament contains the splenic vessels and the tail of the pancreas.
The gastrocolic ligament stretches from the greater curvature of the stomach to the transverse colon, connecting the two.
The gastrosplenic ligament is derived from the greater omentum and is the structure that connects the stomach to the hilum of the spleen. The gastrosplenic ligament continues from the splenic flexure of the colon to the diaphragm and acts as a support to the spleen.
The transverse colon is connected to the abdominal wall by the mesocolon ligament.
The falciform ligament on the other hand, attaches the liver to the ventral wall of the abdomen.
The hepatoduodenal ligament connects the porta hepatis of the liver to the superior part of the duodenum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 66
Incorrect
-
The oesophagus is an important part of the alimentary canal. It receives blood from various arteries in the body. Which one of the following is an artery that will lead to some level of ischaemia to the oesophagus when ligated?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left inferior phrenic
Explanation:The oesophagus receives its blood supply from the following arteries: the inferior thyroid branch of the thyrocervical trunk, the descending thoracic aorta, the left gastric branch of the coeliac artery and the from the left inferior phrenic artery of the abdominal aorta. Hence ligation of the left inferior phrenic will lead to ischemia to some portions of the oesophagus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 67
Incorrect
-
When does the heart rate decrease?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 68
Incorrect
-
What is the innervation of the tensor tympani muscle?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 69
Incorrect
-
A 45-year old man presents with sclerosing cholangitis, blood in his stools and apparent iron deficiency anaemia. What will be the most likely finding on his colonic biopsy?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pseudopolyps
Explanation:Sclerosing cholangitis along with the passage of blood in stools suggests ulcerative colitis affecting the mucosa and submucosa of rectum and colon, with a sharp demarcation with the normal tissue. The musclaris layer is involved in severe cases. Initially, the mucosa is erythematous, friable with scattered haemorrhagic areas and loss of normal vascular pattern. Severe disease is indicated by presence of large mucosal ulcers with purulent exudate. There can be islands of normal mucosa between the ulcerated mucosa, along with few hyperplastic inflammatory mucosal lesions (pseudopolyps). Ulcerative colitis does not lead to development of fistulas or abscesses.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 70
Incorrect
-
A textbook of cardiac surgery explains that while doing a left pneumonectomy, a surgeon must be careful to avoid injury to a vital structure that leaves an impression on the mediastinal surface of the left lung. Which structure is it referring to?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Aortic arch
Explanation:Structures that leave an impression on the mediastinal surface of the left lung include: the oesophagus, subclavian artery, brachiocephalic vein, first rib, thymus, the heart, the diaphragm, descending aorta and arch of the aorta. The other structures form an impression on the mediastinal aspect of the right lung.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 71
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 72
Incorrect
-
The bronchial circulation is a part of the circulatory system that supplies nutrients and oxygen to the pulmonary parenchyma. What percentage of cardiac output is received by bronchial circulation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 2%
Explanation:The bronchial circulation is part of the systemic circulation and receives about 2% of the cardiac output from the left heart. Bronchial arteries arise from branches of the aorta, intercostal, subclavian or internal mammary arteries. The bronchial arteries supply the tracheobronchial tree with both nutrients and O2. It is complementary to the pulmonary circulation that brings deoxygenated blood to the lungs and carries oxygenated blood away from them in order to oxygenate the rest of the body.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 73
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 74
Incorrect
-
A patient with this condition has extracellular fluid volume expansion:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Nephrotic syndrome
Explanation:Nephrotic syndrome is a syndrome comprising of signs of nephrosis, including proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and oedema. It is a component of glomerulonephritis, in which different degrees of proteinuria occur. Essentially, loss of protein through the kidneys leads to low protein levels in the blood , which causes water to be drawn into soft tissues (oedema). Severe hypoalbuminemia can also cause a variety of secondary problems, such as water in the abdominal cavity (ascites), around the heart or lung (pericardial effusion, pleural effusion), high cholesterol, loss of molecules regulating coagulation (hence increased risk of thrombosis). The most common sign is excess fluid in the body due to the serum hypoalbuminemia. Lower serum oncotic pressure causes fluid to accumulate in the interstitial tissues. Sodium and water retention aggravates the oedema.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 75
Incorrect
-
Which of the following will be a likely sequelae of complete ileal resection?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Vitamin B12 deficiency
Explanation:The ileum is a part of the small intestine and has a pH of around 7-8 (neutral or slightly alkaline). Its main function is absorption of products of digestion. The ileal wall has multiple villi, which in turn have numerous microvilli. This increases the surface area available for absorption significantly. The cells lining the ileum contain multiple enzymes such as protease and carbohydrase, which aid in the final stages of digestion. Villi contain lacteals which absorb the products of fat digestion, fatty acids and glycerol. Thus, ileal resection will lead to their decreased absorption and increased fat content in the stool. The ileum is also responsible for absorption of vitamin B12.
Maximum water absorption occurs in the colon followed by the jejunum. Hence, ileal resection is less likely to lead to fluid volume deficiency. Also, most minerals (like calcium, iron etc.) are absorbed in the duodenum, and thus will not be affected by ileal resection.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 76
Incorrect
-
A 73-year-old woman goes to the doctor complaining of pain and stiffness in her shoulders and hips for 4 months, which is worst in the mornings. She has also been suffering from fatigue, weight loss and depression. There were no abnormal findings on physical examination. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 110 mm/hour, and serum rheumatoid factor and antinuclear antibody assays were negative. Mild normochromic normocytic anaemia was also found. What is the most likely diagnosis in this case?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Polymyalgia rheumatica
Explanation:Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) affects older adults, with an acute or subacute onset. Symptoms include severe pain and stiffness of the neck and pectoral or pelvic girdles, which is worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity and is usually bilateral. Other symptoms can include fatigue, weight loss, depression and fever. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is usually elevated, and normochromic normocytic anaemia can occur. Other tests are usually normal in this disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 77
Incorrect
-
Which statement is correct regarding secretions from the adrenal glands?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 78
Incorrect
-
Enlargement of the spleen as seen in Gaucher's disease pushes the spleen downward and medially. What structure limits the straight-vertical-downward movement?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left colic flexure
Explanation:The left colic flexure (also known as the splenic flexure), is the point where the colon takes a sharp turn downwards. It is the point where the transverse colon ends and the descending colon begins. It is located immediately inferior to the spleen so an enlarged spleen must move medially to avoid this colic flexure.
The left suprarenal gland is retroperitoneal.
The Ligament of Treitz suspends the fourth part of the duodenum from the posterior abdominal wall.
The stomach, pancreas and liver lie medial to the spleen and thus would not prevent a vertical downward movement.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
-
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Question 79
Incorrect
-
What is the innervation of the laryngeal mucosa inferior to the true vocal cord?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Recurrent laryngeal nerve
Explanation:Motor innervation to all other muscles of the larynx and sensory innervation to the subglottis is by the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 80
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 81
Incorrect
-
During an exploratory laparotomy of an acute abdomen, the surgeon identified an inflamed Meckel's diverticulum. This is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Is a site of ectopic pancreatic tissue
Explanation:Meckel’s diverticulum is an outpouching of the small intestine. It usually occurs about 0.6 m (2 feet) before the junction with the caecum. It can be lined with the mucosa of the stomach and may ulcerate. It may also be lined by ectopic pancreatic tissue. It represents the remains of the vitelline duct in early fetal life.
An abnormal persistence of the urachus is called a urachal fistula.
Failure of the midgut loop to return to the abdominal cavity is called an omphalocele.
Polyhydramnios is often caused by anencephaly or oesophageal fistula.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 82
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 83
Incorrect
-
Choose the most correct answer regarding the common peroneal nerve.
Your Answer:
Correct 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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 84
Incorrect
-
During a normal respiratory exhalation, what is the recoil alveolar pressure?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: +10 cmH2O
Explanation:To determine compliance of the respiratory system, changes in transmural pressures (in and out) immediately across the lung or chest cage (or both) are measured simultaneously with changes in lung or thoracic cavity volume. Changes in lung or thoracic cage volume are determined using a spirometer with transmural pressures measured by pressure transducers. For the lung alone, transmural pressure is calculated as the difference between alveolar (pA; inside) and intrapleural (ppl; outside) pressure. To calculate chest cage compliance, transmural pressure is ppl (inside) minus atmospheric pressure (pB; outside). For the combined lung–chest cage, transmural pressure or transpulmonary pressure is computed as pA – pB. pA pressure is determined by having the subject deeply inhale a measured volume of air from a spirometer. Under physiological conditions the transpulmonary or recoil pressure is always positive; intrapleural pressure is always negative and relatively large, while alveolar pressure moves from slightly negative to slightly positive as a person breathes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 85
Incorrect
-
Which of the following veins empties into the left renal vein?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left suprarenal
Explanation:The left suprarenal vein empties into the left renal vein which crosses the vertebral column to reach the inferior vena cava. The left renal vein also receives the left gonadal vein.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
-
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Question 86
Incorrect
-
One sensitive indicator of heavy alcohol dependence is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Elevated serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase
Explanation:Elevated serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) may be the only laboratory abnormality in patients who are dependent on alcohol. Heavy drinkers may also have an increased MCV.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Physiology
-
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Question 87
Incorrect
-
A 40-year old lady with a flail chest due to trauma was breathing with the help of a mechanical ventilator in the ICU, and was heavily sedated on muscle relaxants. Due to sudden power failure, a nurse began to hand-ventilate the patient with a Ambu bag. What change will occur in the following parameters: (Arterial p(CO2), pH) in the intervening period between power failure and hand ventilation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Increase, Decrease
Explanation:Respiratory acidosis occurs due to alveolar hypoventilation which leads to increased arterial carbon dioxide concentration (p(CO2)). This in turn decreases the HCO3 –/p(CO2) and decreases pH. Respiratory acidosis can be acute or chronic. In acute respiratory acidosis, the p(CO2) is raised above the upper limit of normal (over 45 mm Hg) with low pH. However, in chronic cases, the raised p(CO2) is accompanied with a normal or near-normal pH due to renal compensation and an increased serum bicarbonate (HCO3 – > 30 mmHg). The given problem represents acute respiratory acidosis and thus, will show a increase in arterial p(CO2) and decrease in pH.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
-
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Question 88
Incorrect
-
A 58-year-old woman has had a headache, fever, lethargy and nausea for the last 10 days. He undergoes a CT scan which reveals a lesion in his frontal lobe, which, after a biopsy, is found to be formed by granulation tissue with collagenisation, gliosis and oedema. What's the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Chronic brain abscess
Explanation:A cerebral abscess can result from direct extension of cranial infections, penetrating head trauma, haematogenous spread, or for unknown causes. An abscess forms when an area of cerebral inflammation becomes necrotic and encapsulated by glial cells and fibroblasts. Oedema around the abscess can increase the intracranial pressure. Symptoms result from increased intracranial pressure and mass effects. In a CT scan, an abscess appears as an oedematous mass with ring enhancement.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 89
Incorrect
-
A patient sustained an iatrogenic injury to one of the structures passing through the deep inguinal ring. This was during an operation to repair an inguinal hernia. Which structure is most likely to be injured?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Round ligament of the uterus
Explanation:The deep inguinal ring transmits the spermatic cord in the man and the round ligament of the uterus in the female. It is bound below and medially by the inferior epigastric vessels (so these don’t go through it).
The ilioinguinal nerve, although it courses through the inguinal canal, does not pass through it.
The iliohypogastric nerves run between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis in the abdominal wall, piercing the internal oblique at the anterior superior iliac spine to travel just deep to the external oblique.
The inferior epigastric artery runs between the transversus abdominis and the peritoneum forming the lateral umbilical fold.
The medial umbilical ligament is the obliterated umbilical artery that it lies within the medial umbilical fold of peritoneum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
-
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Question 90
Incorrect
-
A 45-year old lady underwent biopsy of a soft, fleshy mass involving her left breast. The biopsy showed lymphoid stroma with minimal fibrosis, surrounding sheets of large vesicular cells with frequent mitoses. Which condition is she most likely suffering from?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Medullary carcinoma of breast
Explanation:Medullary carcinoma is a malignant tumour of the breast with well-defined boundaries and accounts for 5% of all breast cancers. Other special features include a larger size of the neoplastic cells and presence of lymphoid cells at tumour edge. Differential diagnosis includes invasive ductal carcinoma. Prognosis is usually good.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 91
Incorrect
-
Due to a plantarflexion–inversion ankle sprain, which is the first ligament to rupture?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Anterior talofibular ligament
Explanation:The anterior talofibular ligament passes from the anterior margin of the fibular malleolus. It is the most commonly injured ligament, as part of the lateral ligament of the ankle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 92
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
-
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Question 93
Incorrect
-
For calculation of cardiac output by Fick's principle, which of the following vessels is the best source of venous blood to determine the arterial-to-venous oxygen tension difference?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulmonary artery
Explanation:Fick’s principle states that the total uptake (or release) of a substance by peripheral tissues is equal to the product of the blood flow to the peripheral tissues and the arterial– venous concentration difference (gradient) of the substance. It is used to measure the cardiac output, and the formula is Cardiac output = oxygen consumption divided by arteriovenous oxygen difference. Assuming there are no shunts across the pulmonary system, the pulmonary blood flow equals the systemic blood flow. The arterial and venous blood oxygen content is measured by sampling from the pulmonary artery (low oxygen content) and pulmonary vein (high oxygen content). Peripheral arterial blood is used as a surrogate for the pulmonary vein.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
-
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Question 94
Incorrect
-
In relation to the muscles of facial expression, It is true to say:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: They are in the same subcutaneous plane as the platysma muscle
Explanation:The facial muscles generally originate from the facial bones and attach to the skin, in the same plane as the platysma muscle. They are all innervated by cranial nerve VII (the facial nerve). The occipitofrontalis muscle consists of two parts: The occipital belly, near the occipital bone, and the frontal belly, near the frontal bone.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 95
Incorrect
-
Which part of the nephron would have to be damaged to stop the reabsorption of the majority of salt and water?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Proximal tubule
Explanation:The proximal tubule is the portion of the duct system of the nephron of the kidney which leads from Bowman’s capsule to the loop of Henle. It is conventionally divided into the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) and the proximal straight tubule (PST). The proximal tubule reabsorbs the majority (about two-thirds) of filtered salt and water. This is done in an essentially iso-osmotic manner. Both the luminal salt concentration and the luminal osmolality remain constant (and equal to plasma values) along the entire length of the proximal tubule. Water and salt are reabsorbed proportionally because the water is dependent on and coupled with the active reabsorption of Na+. The water permeability of the proximal tubule is high and therefore a significant transepithelial osmotic gradient is not possible.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
-
-
Question 96
Incorrect
-
During a procedure in the mediastinum, the surgeon accidentally injured a key structure that lies immediately anterior to the thoracic duct. Which structure is likely to be injured?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Oesophagus
Explanation:In the mid-thorax, the azygos vein, thoracic duct and aorta (in this order from right to the left) are all located posterior to the oesophagus. The superior vena cava, left internal jugular vein and trachea are not found in the mid thorax.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 97
Incorrect
-
A 39-year-old man, after radiological evaluation and thoracentesis, was found to have chylothorax. What is the most probable cause of this diagnose?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mediastinal malignant lymphoma
Explanation:Chylothorax is a potentially lethal condition characterized by fluid (chyle) accumulation in the pleural cavity, resulting from disruption of lymphatic drainage in the thoracic duct. Chyle is a fluid rich in triglycerides and chylomicrons and can originate from the thorax, the abdomen or both. Malignant tumours, especially lymphoma, are the most common causes of nontraumatic chylothorax. Bronchogenic carcinoma and trauma are the most common causes after lymphomas. Other rare causes of chylothorax are; granulomatous diseases, tuberculosis, congenital malformations, nephrotic syndrome, hypothyroidism, cirrhosis, decompensated heart failure and idiopathic chylothorax.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
-
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Question 98
Incorrect
-
Multiple, non-tender lymphadenopathy with biopsy showing several crowded follicles of small, monomorphic lymphocytes and the absence of Reed-Sternberg cells is seen in which of the following?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Poorly differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma
Explanation:Malignant lymphoma usually causes non-tender lymphadenopathy, unlike the tender lymphadenopathy caused by infections (including infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr virus). Also, the lymphoid hyperplasia seen in infectious mononucleosis is benign and polyclonal.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 99
Incorrect
-
In order to arrest sudden bleeding during pericardiectomy that started after accidental injury to a major vasculature in the pericardium; the surgeon inserted his left index finger through the transverse pericardial sinus, pulled forward on the two large vessels lying ventral to his finger, and compressed these vessels with his thumb to control the bleeding. Which vessels were these?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulmonary trunk and aorta
Explanation:Transverse pericardial sinus: located behind two great vessels (aorta and pulmonary trunk) and in front of the superior vena cava and is accessed from above as in this case. The brachiocephalic trunk is located above the pericardium and the right pulmonary artery is above the pericardial reflections.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 100
Incorrect
-
A 32-year old gentleman came to the emergency department, complaining of progressively increasing weakness in his arms and legs over 5 days. On examination, there is symmetrical weakness on both sides of his face, along with weakness of the proximal and distal muscles of all four limbs. No loss of sensation noted. Deep tendon reflexes could not be elicited and plantar responses were downward. On enquiry, it was revealed that he had an upper respiratory tract infection 10 days ago. The likely diagnosis is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Guillain–Barré syndrome
Explanation:Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute, autoimmune polyradiculoneuropathy which affects the peripheral nervous system and is usually triggered by an acute infectious process. 75% patients have a history of acute infection within the past 1–4 weeks, usually respiratory or gastrointestinal. immunisations have also been implicated. The most common form is acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. It results in an ascending paralysis with complete loss of deep tendon reflexes. Treatment includes immunoglobulins and supportive care. However, the disease may be fatal due to severe pulmonary complications and dysautonomia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 101
Incorrect
-
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from a region of high concentration to a region of low concentration. Which of these changes will decrease the rate of diffusion of a substance?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: An increase in the molecular weight of the substance
Explanation:Unless given IV, a drug must cross several semipermeable cell membranes before it reaches the systemic circulation. Drugs may cross cell membranes by diffusion, amongst other mechanisms. The rate of diffusion of a substance is proportional to the difference in the concentration of the diffusing substance between the two sides of the membrane, the temperature of the solution, the permeability of the membrane and, in the case of ions, the electrical potential difference between the two sides of the membrane.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 102
Incorrect
-
Which of the following substances brings about a dilatation of the gastrointestinal resistance vessels?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Vasoactive intestinal peptide
Explanation:Gastric vasoconstrictors include catecholamines, angiotensin II and vasopressin. Vasodilators include vasoactive intestinal peptide and the hormones; gastrin, cholecystokinin and glucagon.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 103
Incorrect
-
A 90-year-old man is prescribed spironolactone after his family notices his legs are swollen. What class of drugs does spironolactone belong to?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Potassium-sparing diuretics
Explanation:Spironolactone is a renal competitive aldosterone antagonist in a class of drugs called ‘potassium-sparing diuretics’, that is primarily used to treat fluid build-up due to heart failure, liver scarring, or kidney disease. It is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure, low blood potassium, early-onset puberty, and acne and excessive hair growth in women. Spironolactone inhibits the effect of aldosterone by competing for intracellular aldosterone receptors in the distal tubule cells. This increases the secretion of water and sodium, while decreasing the excretion of potassium.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 104
Incorrect
-
Pain in the epigastric region occurring typically 2-3 hours after meals and causing the patient to wake up at night is characteristic of which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Duodenal ulcer
Explanation:The description is typical for duodenal ulcers. There is no pain upon waking in the morning however it appears around mid-morning and is relieved by ingestion of food. The pain also often causes the patient to wake up at night.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 105
Incorrect
-
Which of the following conditions is characterized by generalised oedema due to effusion of fluid into the extracellular space?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Anasarca
Explanation:Anasarca (or ‘generalised oedema’) is a condition characterised by widespread swelling of the skin due to effusion of fluid into the extracellular space. It is usually caused by liver failure (cirrhosis of the liver), renal failure/disease, right-sided heart failure, as well as severe malnutrition/protein deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Physiology
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Question 106
Incorrect
-
Which of the given options best describes the metabolic changes which occur following a severe soft tissue injury sustained after a PVA?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mobilisation of fat stores
Explanation:The following metabolic responses occur following trauma as part of a coping mechanism for the additional stress. These include acid base changes (metabolic acidosis or alkalosis), decrease urine output and osmolality, reduced basal metabolic rate (BMR), gluconeogenesis with amino acid breakdown and shunting, hyponatraemia as a result of impaired functioning of sodium pumps, hypoxic injury, coagulopathies, decreased immunity, increase extracellular fluid and hypovolemic shock, increase permeability leading to oedema, break down and mobilization of fat reserves, pyrexia and reduced circulating levels of albumin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 107
Incorrect
-
What is the most likely cause of bilateral gynaecomastia in a 55-year old male?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hepatic failure
Explanation:Hypertrophy of breast tissue in males is known as gynaecomastia. It is normally due to proliferation of stroma and not of mammary ducts. Physiological gynaecomastia can occur during puberty and is often transient, bilateral, symmetrical and possibly tender. Gynaecomastia can occur during old age too, but is usually unilateral. Other causes include hepatic or renal failure, endocrinological disorders, drugs (anabolic steroids, antineoplastic drugs, calcium channel blockers, cimetidine, digitalis, oestrogens, isoniazid, ketoconazole, methadone, metronidazole, reserpine, spironolactone, theophylline), and marijuana. It should not be confused with malignancy which is often hard, asymmetric and fixed to the dermis or fascia. Treatment if indicated, includes withdrawal of the causative factor or treatment of the underlying disorder.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Women's Health
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Question 108
Incorrect
-
A 31-year-old woman is diagnosed with adrenal hyperplasia, and laboratory samples are taken to measure serum aldosterone and another substance. Which is most likely to be the other test that was prescribed to this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Plasma renin
Explanation:The evaluation of a patient in whom hyperaldosteronism is first to determine that hyperaldosteronism is present (serum aldosterone) and, if it is present, to differentiate primary from secondary causes of hyperaldosteronism. The aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) is the most sensitive means of differentiating primary from secondary causes of hyperaldosteronism as it is abnormally increased in primary hyperaldosteronism, and decreased or normal but with high renin levels in secondary hyperaldosteronism.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 109
Incorrect
-
The normal location of the major duodenal papilla:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Descending part of the duodenum
Explanation:The major duodenal papilla is on the descending portion of the duodenum on the medial side, about 7-10cm from the pylorus. The pancreatic ducts and the common bile ducts unite and open by a common orifice on the summit of the duodenal papilla.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 110
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
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Question 111
Incorrect
-
Where is the foramen ovale located?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 112
Incorrect
-
What will the destruction of endoplasmic reticulum stop?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Synthesis of proteins
Explanation:The rough endoplasmic reticulum is the factory for the manufacturing of proteins. It contains ribosomes attached to it and transports proteins that are destined for membranes and secretions. The rough ER is connected to the nuclear envelope and to the cisternae of the Golgi apparatus by vesicles that shuttle between the two compartments.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 113
Incorrect
-
Hepatomegaly with greatly increased serum alpha-fetoprotein is seen in which of the following conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hepatocellular carcinoma
Explanation:Hepatocellular carcinoma or hepatoma affects people with pre-existing cirrhosis and is more common in areas with higher prevalence of hepatitis B and C. Diagnosis include raise alpha-fetoprotein levels, imaging and liver biopsy if needed. Patients at high-risk for developing this disease can undergo screening by periodic AFP measurement and abdominal ultrasonography. The malignancy carries poor prognosis (see also Answer to 10.4).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
-
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Question 114
Incorrect
-
Calculate the cardiac stroke volume of a patient whose oxygen consumption (measured by analysis of mixed expired gas) is 300 ml/min, arterial O2 content is 20 ml/100 ml blood, pulmonary arterial O2 content is 15 ml/100 ml blood and heart rate is 60/min.
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 100 ml
Explanation:By Fick’s principle, VO2 = Q × (CA (O2) − CV (O2)) where VO2 = O2 consumption, Q = cardiac output and CA(O2) and CV(O2) are arterial and mixed venous O2 content respectively. Thus, in the given problem, 300 ml O2/min = Q × (20−15) ml O2/100 ml. Thus, Q = 6000 ml blood/min. Then, we can calculate stroke volume by dividing the cardiac output with heart rate. Thus, stroke volume = 6000 ml/min divided by 60/min stroke volume = 100 ml.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 115
Incorrect
-
An 80 year-old lady presents to the out patient clinic complaining of chest pain of 2 months' duration with a normal electrocardiogram and cardiac enzymes. A computed tomographic scan is done which reveals a mass lesion involving a structure in the middle mediastinum. Which among the following structures could be involved?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Ascending aorta
Explanation:The middle mediastinum is the broadest part of the mediastinal cavity containing the heart enclosed in the pericardium, ascending aorta, lower half of the superior vena cava with the azygos vein opening into it, the bifurcation of the trachea and the two bronchi, the pulmonary artery with its branches, pulmonary veins, phrenic nerves and bronchial lymph nodes. The most likely structure involved is the ascending aorta, perhaps with an aneurysm.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 116
Incorrect
-
Increased resistance to flow of blood in cerebral vessels is most likely seen in:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Elevation in systemic arterial pressure from 100 to 130 mmHg
Explanation:Constant cerebral blood flow is maintained by autoregulation in the brain, which causes an increase in local vascular resistance to offset an increase in blood pressure. There will be an increase in cerebral blood flow (and decrease in resistance to cerebral blood flow) with a decrease in arterial oxygen or an increase in arterial CO2. Similarly, a decrease in viscosity will also increase the blood flow. Due to increased brain metabolism and activity during a seizure, there will also be an increase in the cerebral blood flow.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 117
Incorrect
-
If a 70-year-old man with known atrial fibrillation dies suddenly, which of these is the most likely cause of death?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Thromboembolism
Explanation:In atrial fibrillation, the abnormal atrial contraction can cause blood to stagnate in the left atrium and form a thrombus, which may then embolize. The patient’s history of AF suggest an embolic disease, which lead to his death.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 118
Incorrect
-
Biopsy of a neoplastic mass was performed. Histologic examination of the specimen showed spindle shaped cells with high nuclear/cytoplasm ratio on immunohisto chemical staining. These pleomorphic cells were vimentin positive, cytokeratin negative and cd45 negative. This type of neoplasm is most commonly found in which patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: A 15-year-old boy with a mass in the left femur and lung metastases
Explanation:A histology report that describes spindle shaped cells which are vimentin positive suggests osteosarcoma and hematogenous spread to the lungs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia; Orthopaedics
- Pathology
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Question 119
Incorrect
-
A 78-year-old man who has been bedridden for a month is prescribed griseofulvin. What class of drugs does griseofulvin belong to?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Antifungal
Explanation:Griseofulvin is an antifungal drug. It is administered orally, and it is used to treat ringworm infections of the skin and nails. It binds to keratin in keratin precursor cells and makes them resistant to fungal infections. Griseofulvin works by interfering with fungal mitosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 120
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is true about myasthenia gravis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Response of skeletal muscle to nerve stimulation is weakened
Explanation:An autoimmune disorder, myasthenia gravis leads to progressive muscle weakness. It occurs due to formation of antibodies against the nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptor of the motor endplate, which leads to impaired neuromuscular transmission. Thus, nerve stimulation will lead to a weakened muscle response, but direct electrical stimulation will bring about a normal response. Diagnostic test includes improvement of muscle weakness by small doses of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (physostigmine or edrophonium). However, a large dose of physostigmine worsens the weakness due to desensitisation of the endplate to persistent Ach. One of the investigative tools includes radiolabelled snake venom α-bungarotoxin. It is an in vitro study performed on muscle biopsy specimens and used to quantify the number of ACh receptors at the motor endplate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 121
Incorrect
-
Which of the following coagulation factors cross-links fibrin?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Factor XIII
Explanation:Factor XIII, also known as fibrin stabilizing factor, is an enzyme of the coagulation cascade that crosslinks fibrin. Deficiency of FXIII may cause bleeding tendency but paradoxically, it may also predispose to thrombosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 122
Incorrect
-
Calculate the cardiac output in an adult male with the following parameters:
Heart rate 70 beats/min
Arterial [O2] 0.24 ml O2/min
Venous [O2] 0.16 ml O2/mi
Whole body O2 consumption 500 ml/min
Pulmonary diastolic pressure 15 mmHg
Pulmonary systolic pressure 25 mmHg
Wedge pressure 5 mmHg.Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 6.25 l/min
Explanation:As per Fick’s principle, VO2 = (CO × CAO2) – (CO × CVO2) where VO2 = oxygen consumption, CO = cardiac output, CAO2 = oxygen concentration of arterial blood and CVO2 = oxygen concentration of venous blood. Thus, CO = VO2/CAO2– CVO2, CO = 500/0.24 – 0.16, CO = 500/0.8, CO = 6.25 l/min.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 123
Incorrect
-
Which lymph nodes are likely to be enlarged in a patient who has malignant growth involving the anus?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Superficial inguinal
Explanation:The lymphatics from the anus, skin of the perineum and the scrotum end in the superficial inguinal nodes. In case of a malignant growth of the anus, the superficial inguinal lymph nodes would most likely be enlarge.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Pelvis
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Question 124
Incorrect
-
A man in his sixties underwent surgery to remove a lump from his axilla. During removal, a nerve originating from the lateral cord of the brachial plexus was damaged. Which nerve is this referring to?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Lateral pectoral
Explanation:The only branch of the lateral cord of brachial plexus in the options given, is the lateral pectoral nerve. It supplies the pectoralis major muscle and sends a branch to join the medial pectoral nerve forming a loop in front of the first part of the axillary artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 125
Incorrect
-
A man had an injury to his right brachial plexus. After examination by the doctor they found that the diaphragm and the scapula were unaffected however the patient could not abduct his arm. When helped with abducting his arm to 45 degrees he was able to continue the movement. This means that he was unable to initiate abduction. Where is the likely site of injury?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Suprascapular nerve
Explanation:The loss of ability to initiate abduction means paralysis of the supraspinatus muscle. This muscle is supplied by the supraclavicular nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 126
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:
Correct Answer: Bronchioalveolar carcinoma
Explanation:Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC) is a term used to define a particular subtype of adenocarcinoma which develops in cells near the alveoli, in the outer regions of the lungs. On a chest X-ray it can appear as a single peripheral spot or as scattered spots throughout the lungs. Symptoms include cough, haemoptysis, chest pain, dyspnoea and loss of weight.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Respiratory
-
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Question 127
Incorrect
-
A 56-year old male with history of previous abdominal surgery presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain that is increasing in intensity. This pain is associated with abdominal distension and faint, high-pitched bowel sounds. An old scar is also noted on the abdomen. An erect abdominal X-ray shows multiple air-fluid levels in dilated bowel loops. No occult blood was found in stool sample. What is the most likely predisposing factor for his present condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Adhesions from previous surgery
Explanation:The described features suggest acute bowel obstruction. The scar described points toward previous surgery, which suggests development of peritoneal adhesions that could lead to obstruction. Hepatitis does not lead to dilated bowel loops. Amoebiasis could lead to inflammatory bowel disease, however, occult blood in stool is usually positive. Ileal adenocarcinoma is rare. Meckel’s diverticulum can possibly lea to obstruction but the findings described here are more consistent with obstruction due to peritoneal adhesions from a past surgery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal; Hepatobiliary
- Pathology
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Question 128
Incorrect
-
The renal cortex and medulla, if seen under the microscope, is lacking one of the following:
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 129
Incorrect
-
The pleural cavity is the space between the two pulmonary pleurae which cover the lungs. What is the normal amount of pleural fluid?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 10 ml
Explanation:Pleural fluid is a serous fluid produced by the serous membrane covering normal pleurae. Most fluid is produced by the parietal circulation (intercostal arteries) via bulk flow and reabsorbed by the lymphatic system. The total volume of fluid present in the intrapleural space is estimated to be only 2–10 ml. A small amount of protein is present in intrapleural fluid. Normally, the rate of reabsorption increases as a physiological response to accumulating fluid.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
-
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Question 130
Incorrect
-
A 55-year-old male chronic smoker is diagnosed with non-small-cell cancer. His right lung underwent complete atelectasis and he has a 7cm tumour involving the chest wall. What is the stage of the lung cancer of this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: T3
Explanation:Non-small-cell lung cancer is staged through TNM classification. The stage of this patient is T3 because based on the TNM classification the tumour is staged T3 if > 7 cm or one that directly invades any of the following: Chest wall (including superior sulcus tumours), diaphragm, phrenic nerve, mediastinal pleura, or parietal pericardium; or the tumour is in the main bronchus < 2 cm distal to the carina but without involvement of the carina, Or it is associated with atelectasis/obstructive pneumonitis of the entire lung or separate tumour nodule(s) in the same lobe.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 131
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Pelvis
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Question 132
Incorrect
-
A patient is diagnosed with Conn’s syndrome. Aldosterone is secreted from where?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Physiology
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Question 133
Incorrect
-
Medulloblastoma usually occurs in children between 5 to 9 years old. Where does medulloblastoma commonly originate from?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Cerebellar vermis
Explanation:Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in children, accounting for 10-20% of primary CNS neoplasms. Most of the tumours originate in the cerebellar vermis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 134
Incorrect
-
In what form are fats primarily transported in the body?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Free fatty acids
Explanation:Fat is mainly transported in the body as free fatty acids. Once out of the adipose cell, the free fatty acids get ionized and combine with albumin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 135
Incorrect
-
The histological exam of a tuberculous granuloma shows a periphery of multinuclear giant cells, with a central area of:
Your Answer:
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
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Dermatology
- Pathology
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Question 136
Incorrect
-
A biopsy taken from the respiratory passage of a 37 year old male, chronic smoker will mostly likely show which cellular adaptation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Stratified squamous metaplasia
Explanation:Metaplasia is a change in the cell type caused in part due to an extrinsic stress on the organ. It involves a change in the surface epithelium from one cell type to the another, most commonly squamous to columnar. This is a reversible process, and removal of the stress should theoretically reverse the surface epithelium back to normal morphology. Respiratory tract metaplasia is a classic example, in which the normal pseudostratified columnar epithelium is replaced by stratified squamous epithelium to better cope with the stress. Under continuous stress metaplasia can progress to dysplasia which is a disordered growth of cells eventually leading to the development of carcinoma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Respiratory
- Pathology
-
-
Question 137
Incorrect
-
A 15-year-old girl was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. Gram staining of the spinal fluid shows numerous polymorphonuclear neutrophils and Gram-positive cocci. Which is the empiric drug of choice to be given to the patient until the antibiotic sensitivity report is available?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Ceftriaxone
Explanation:Acute meningitis is a medical emergency. All suspects should receive their first dose of antibiotics immediately and be transferred to hospital as soon as possible. If facilities for blood culture and/or lumbar puncture (LP) are immediately available, they should be performed before administration
of the first dose of antibiotics (see contraindications to LP below). Neither procedure should lead to a significant delay in antibiotic administration.
Administer ceftriaxone 80-100 mg/kg (maximum 2 g, 12 hourly) intravenously. The intramuscular or intraosseous route can be used if there is no vascular access. Penicillin allergy is not a contraindication to ceftriaxone in acute meningitis (C-1). Omit ceftriaxone only if there has been documented ceftriaxone anaphylaxis. Give chloramphenicol 25 mg/kg (maximum 500 mg) intravenously instead, if available. Administer adequate analgesia and transfer the patient immediately to hospital, detailing all administered
medication in the referral letter. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 138
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is the most likely cause of massive splenomegaly in a 35-year old gentleman?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Myelofibrosis
Explanation:Causes of massive splenomegaly include chronic myelogenous leukaemia, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, lymphoma, hairy cell leukaemia, myelofibrosis, polycythaemia vera, sarcoidosis, Gaucher’s disease and malaria.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 139
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is the most accurate test for the diagnosis of primary syphilis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Dark-field microscopy
Explanation:Primary syphilis is transmitted via sexual contact. Lesions on genitalia, called a chancre occur after an asymptomatic incubation period of 10-90 days (average 21 days) after exposure. This chancre is a typically solitary (can be multiple), firm, painless, ulceration over the skin at the point of exposure to spirochete, seen on penis, vagina or rectum. It heals spontaneously after 4-6 weeks. Local lymphadenopathy can be seen.
Diagnosis is made by microscopy of fluid from lesion using dark-field illumination, taking care to not confuse with other treponemal disease. Screening tests include rapid plasma regain (RPR) and Venereal Diseases Research Laboratory (VDRL) tests. False positives are known to occur with these tests and can be seen in viral infections like hepatitis, varicella, Epstein-Barr virus, tuberculosis, lymphoma, pregnancy and IV drug use. More specific tests should therefore be carried out in case these screening tests are positive.
The Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA) and the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTAABS) test are based on monoclonal antibodies and immunofluorescence and are more specific. However, they can too show false positives with other treponemal diseases like yaws or pinta. Other confirmatory tests include those based on enzyme-linked immunoassays.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 140
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:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 141
Incorrect
-
A 38-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease, is undergoing haemodialysis. She has normocytic normochromic anaemia. What is the best treatment for her?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Erythropoietin
Explanation:E erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that is released by the kidney. It is responsible for the regulation of red blood cell production in the body. It can be made using recombinant technology and is used in the treatment of anaemia of chronic renal failure and in patients under going chemotherapy
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 142
Incorrect
-
A drug abuser developed an infection which spread from the dorsum of the hand to the medial side of the arm along the course of the large cutaneous vein. Which vein is involved?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Basilic
Explanation:The basilic vein is one of two veins found in the forearm, the other is the cephalic vein. These veins originate from the deep venous arch of the hand. The cephalic vein ascends along the lateral side of the forearm, and the basilic vein runs up the medial side of the forearm.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 143
Incorrect
-
The muscle which has an antagonistic action to the serratus anterior muscle and is one of the retractors of the scapula is the?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Rhomboid major
Explanation:Protraction is accomplished by the actions of the serratus anterior, pectoralis major, and pectoralis minor muscles. Retraction is accomplished by the actions of the trapezius, rhomboids, and latissimus dorsi muscles.
The rhomboid major arises from the second, third, fourth and fifth thoracic vertebrae. It is inserted into a narrow tendinous arch attached to the root of the spine of the scapula and the inferior angle. By its insertion in the inferior angle of the scapula, it acts on this angle and produces a slight rotation of the scapula on the side of the chest. It also retracts the scapula by working with the trapezius muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 144
Incorrect
-
The superior ulnar collateral artery is a direct branch of this artery:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Brachial
Explanation:The brachial artery gives rise to a small branch at the middle of the arm, which is the superior collateral artery. It descends accompanied by the ulnar nerve and anastomoses with the posterior ulnar recurrent and inferior ulnar collateral.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 145
Incorrect
-
A 60-year-old male is suspected to have pancreatic cancer. What particular tumour marker should be requested to aid in the confirmation of the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)
Explanation:Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is used as a tumour marker. CEA test measures the amount of this protein that may appear in the blood of some people who have certain types of cancers especially cancer of the colon and rectal cancer. It may also be present in the pancreas, breast, ovary or lung.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
-
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Question 146
Incorrect
-
Question 147
Incorrect
-
Calculate the cardiac output of a patient with the following measurements: oxygen uptake 200 ml/min, oxygen concentration in the peripheral vein 7 vol%, oxygen concentration in the pulmonary artery 10 vol% and oxygen concentration in the aorta 15 vol%.
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: 4000 ml/min
Explanation:The Fick’s principle states that the uptake of a substance by an organ equals the arteriovenous difference of the substance multiplied by the blood flowing through the organ. We can thus calculate the pulmonary blood flow with pulmonary arterial (i.e., mixed venous) oxygen content, aortic oxygen content and oxygen uptake. The pulmonary blood flow, systemic blood flow and cardiac output can be considered the same assuming there are no intracardiac shunts. Thus, we can calculate the cardiac output. Cardiac output = oxygen uptake/(aortic − mixed venous oxygen content) = 200 ml/min/(15 ml O2/100 ml − 10 ml O2/100 ml) = 200 ml/min/(5 ml O2/100 ml) = 200 ml/min/0.05 = 4000 ml/min.
It is crucial to remember to use pulmonary arterial oxygen content and not peripheral vein oxygen content, when calculating the cardiac output by Fick’s method.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
-
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Question 148
Incorrect
-
Which is the correct statement regarding gonadal venous drainage:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: The left ovarian vein drains into the left renal vein
Explanation:Spermatic or testicular veins arise from the posterior aspect of the testis and receive tributaries from the epididymis. Upon uniting, they form the pampiniform plexus that makes up the greater mass of the spermatic cord. The vessels that make up this plexus rise up the spermatic cord in front of the ductus deferens. They then unite, below the superficial ring, to form three or four veins that traverse the inguinal canal and enter the abdomen through the deep inguinal ring. They further unite to form 2 veins that ascend up the psoas major muscle behind the peritoneum each lying on either side of the testicular artery. These further unite to form one vein that empties on the right side of the inferior vena cava at an acute angle and on the left side into the renal vein, at a right angle. The left testicular vein courses behind the iliac colon and is thus exposed to pressure from the contents of this part of the bowel. The ovarian vein is the equivalent of the testicular vein in women. They form a plexus in the broad ligament near the ovary and uterine tube and communicate with the uterine plexus. They drain into similar vessels as in a man.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 149
Incorrect
-
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:
Correct 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).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 150
Incorrect
-
A 42 year old man with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) underwent an abdominal aortic angiography which revealed that his inferior mesenteric artery was occluded. If this patient showed no symptoms, the most likely reason is that the area the inferior mesenteric artery supplies, must be supplied by collateral blood flow from which arteries?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left and middle colic
Explanation:The arterial branches that form an anastomosis between the superior mesenteric artery and the inferior mesenteric artery are the left colic artery and the middle colic artery. The middle colic artery is the most distal branch of the superior mesenteric artery while the left colic forms the most proximal branch of the inferior mesenteric artery. These two arteries will give collateral blood flow in the case that the inferior mesenteric artery gets occluded. The superior mesenteric artery gives off the following branches; ileocolic, appendicular, ileal artery, right colic and middle colic arteries. The left colic, sigmoid and superior rectal arteries are branches of the inferior mesenteric artery. The marginal artery branches off directly from the abdominal aorta.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 151
Incorrect
-
Under normal conditions, what is the major source of energy of cardiac muscles?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fatty acids
Explanation:Under basal conditions, most of the energy needed by cardiac muscle for metabolism is derived from fats (60%), 35% by carbohydrates, and 5% by ketones and amino acids. However, after intake of large amounts of glucose, lactate and pyruvate are mainly used. During prolonged starvation, fat acts as the primary source. 50% of the used lipids are sourced from circulating fatty acids.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 152
Incorrect
-
Where is the mental foramen located?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: In the mandible
Explanation:The mental foramen is found bilaterally on the anterior surface of the mandible adjacent to the second premolar tooth. The mental nerve and terminal branches of the inferior alveolar nerve and mental artery leave the mandibular canal through it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 153
Incorrect
-
Which of the following over-the-counter drugs can cause a prolonged bleeding time?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Acetylsalicylic acid
Explanation:Acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is widely used as an analgesic and antipyretic. Aspirin is as a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor that leads to decreased prostaglandin production. Decreased platelet aggregation is another effect of this drug, achieved by long-lasting use of aspirin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 154
Incorrect
-
A 66-year-old man complains of constant headaches. On physical examination, the only relevant sign is a dark brown mole located on left his arm which has grown in size over the years and is itchy and painful. A MRI of the brain revealed a solitary lesion at the grey-white junction in the right frontal lobe, without ring enhancement. This lesion is most likely to be:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Metastatic carcinoma
Explanation:The location of the mass at the grey–white junction is typical of a metastasis. The most frequent types of metastatic brain tumours originate in the lung, skin, kidney, breast and colon. These tumour cells reach the brain via the bloodstream. This patient is likely to have skin cancer, which caused the metastatic brain tumour.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 155
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is involved in vitamin B12 absorption?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Intrinsic factor
Explanation:Absorption of vitamin B12 is by an active transport process and occurs in the ileum. Most cobalamins are bound to proteins and are released in the stomach due to low pH and pepsin. The cobalamins then bind to R proteins, i.e. haptocorrin (HC) secreted from salivary glands and gastric juice. Another cobalamin binding protein is Intrinsic factor (IF) secreted from the gastric parietal cells. The cobalamin-HC complex is digested by pancreatic proteases in the intestinal lumen, and the free cobalamin then binds to IF. The complex then reaches a transmembrane receptor in the ileum and undergoes endocytosis. Cobalamin is then released intracellularly and binds to transcobalamin II (TC II). The newly formed complex then exits the ileal cell and enters the blood circulation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
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Question 156
Incorrect
-
Which of the following morphological features is most characteristic of hyaline degeneration?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Homogeneous, ground-glass, pink-staining appearance of cells
Explanation:The characteristic morphological features of hyaline degeneration is ground-glass, pinking staining cytoplasm with an intact cell membrane. The accumulation of lipids, calcium salts, lipofuscin and an amorphous cytoplasm with an intact cell membrane are all characteristically found in different situations.
Pyknotic nucleus and orphan Annie eye nucleus are not seen in hyaline degeneration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 157
Incorrect
-
Congenital anomalies of genitourinary tract are more common than any other system. Which of the following anomalies carries the greatest risk of morbidity?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Bladder exstrophy
Explanation:Bladder exstrophy is the condition where the urinary bladder opens from the anterior aspect suprapubically. The mucosa of the bladder is continuous with the abdominal skin and there is separation of the pubic bones. The function of the upper urinary tract remains normal usually. Treatment consists of surgical reconstruction of the bladder and returning it to the pelvis. There can be a need for continent urinary diversion along with reconstruction of the genitals.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 158
Incorrect
-
A 50 year old man was admitted to the surgical ICU following a hemicolectomy for carcinoma of the caecum. A full blood count revealed: haematocrit = 30%, erythrocytes = 4 × 106/μ, haemoglobin level = 8 g/dl. To determine the likely cause of his anaemia, red blood cell indices were calculated. Which RBC indices are correct?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: MCHC = haemoglobin concentration/haematocrit
Explanation:Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is calculated simply by dividing the haemoglobin concentration (8 g/dl) by the haematocrit (0.3). The normal range is 31–36 g/dl. This patient has a hypochromic anaemia (MCHC = 8/0.3 = 26.7 g/dl). Dividing the haemoglobin concentration × 10 by erythrocyte number yields mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH). Normal range is 25.4–34.6 pg/cell and this patient has a significantly reduced cellular haemoglobin content (MCH = 8 × 10/4 = 20 pg/cell). Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is calculated by dividing haematocrit × 1000 by erythrocyte number (4 × 106/μl). Normal range is 80–100 fl and this patient has a microcytic anaemia (MCV = 0.3 × 1000/4 = 75 fl). Microcytic, hypochromic anaemia is characteristic for iron-deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 159
Incorrect
-
Skin infiltration by neoplastic T lymphocytes is seen in:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mycosis fungoides
Explanation:Mycosis fungoides is a chronic T-cell lymphoma that involves the skin and less commonly, the internal organs such as nodes, liver, spleen and lungs. It is usually diagnosed in patients above 50 years and the average life expectancy is 7-10 years. It is insidious in onset and presents as a chronic, itchy rash, eventually spreading to involve most of the skin. Lesions are commonly plaque-like, but can be nodular or ulcerated. Symptoms include fever, night sweats and weight loss. Skin biopsy is diagnostic. However, early cases may pose a challenge due to fewer lymphoma cells. The malignant cells are mature T cells (T4+, T11+, T12+). The epidermis shows presence of characteristic Pautrier’s micro abscesses are present in the epidermis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 160
Incorrect
-
A 55-year old lady underwent a major surgery for repair of an aortic aneurysm. Her blood pressure was low throughout the intra-operative and the post-operative period, along with increasing serum creatinine and urea. Microscopic examination of her urine showed multiple granular and hyaline casts. What is the likely condition the patient is suffering from?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Acute tubular necrosis
Explanation:The most common predisposing factor leading to acute tubular necrosis is ischemia, typically seen in hospitalized patients with low blood pressure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 161
Incorrect
-
A histological examination of a lump showed an abnormal amount and arrangement of normal tissue in an otherwise normal area. This condition is known as?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hamartoma
Explanation:A hamartoma is a condition best described as tissue normally present in an area arranged haphazardly in an disorganized, abnormal fashion. They are never malignant and do not metastasis.
All the neoplastic, cancerous lesions comprise of a mixture of different cells that are not normal to that area.
Metaplasia is a change in the type of the epithelium.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 162
Incorrect
-
A 50 year old man on warfarin therapy following insertion of a pacemaker presented with epistaxis. Which of the following is true regarding blood coagulation?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Patients with haemophilia A usually have a normal bleeding time
Explanation:A prolonged bleeding time is seen in platelet disorders like thrombocytopenia. Patients with haemophilia A or B have a prolonged PTT but not a prolonged bleeding time.
Ca2+ is necessary for coagulation.
von Willebrand factor is an important part of the factor VIII complex and promotes platelet adhesion and aggregation.
DIC results in depleted coagulation factors and accumulation of fibrin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 163
Incorrect
-
The muscles of the superficial posterior compartment of the leg insert into the:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Calcaneus
Explanation:The muscles of the superficial posterior compartment of the leg form the characteristic ‘calf’ shape of the posterior leg and include the gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris. The gastrocnemius and soleus together form a muscular mass which is occasionally described as the triceps surae; its tendon of insertion is the tendo calcaneus. The tendo calcaneus is the thickest and strongest in the body and together with the tendon of the plantaris muscle is inserted into the posterior part of the calcaneus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 164
Incorrect
-
Nephrotic syndrome is a condition that causes proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia and oedema. Which of the following is the cause of the oedema in these patients?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Decreased oncotic pressure
Explanation:The glomeruli of the kidneys are the parts that normally filter the blood. They consist of capillaries that are fenestrated and allow fluid, salts and other small solutes to flow through, but normally not proteins. In nephrotic syndrome, the glomeruli become damaged allowing small proteins, such as albumin to pass through the kidneys into urine. Oedema usually occurs due to salt and water retention by the diseased kidneys as well as due to the reduced colloid oncotic pressure (because of reduced albumin in the plasma). Lower serum oncotic pressure causes fluid to accumulate in the interstitial tissues.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 165
Incorrect
-
A 20-year old boy presented with low grade fever, night sweats and weakness over two months. On examination, he had multiple, non-tender, cervical, supraclavicular and axillary adenopathy. Microscopy of lymph node biopsy showed the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. He is likely suffering from:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Explanation:Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a disease characterized by malignant proliferation of cells of the lymphoreticular system. It can be localized or disseminated, and can involve the nodes, spleen, liver and marrow. Symptoms of the disease include non-tender lymphadenopathy, fever, night sweats, weight loss, itching and hepatosplenomegaly. Histologically, the involved nodes show the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, binucleated cells, in a heterogenous cellular infiltrate of histiocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, plasma cells and eosinophils.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 166
Incorrect
-
A patient gives a history of dull discomfort in her abdomen associated with pain that she points to be on her right shoulder and right scapula. The following organs are most likely to be source of her pain:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Liver, duodenum and gallbladder
Explanation:Referred pain is felt at a point away from the source of the pain or the unpleasant sensation. It arises when a nerve is damaged or compressed at a point but the pain is felt at another site that is the territory of that nerve. Common abdominal causes of referred pain to the shoulder and the shoulder blade are the liver, duodenum and gall bladder.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 167
Incorrect
-
A patient is diagnosed with lung cancer. His physician told him that his lung cancer type is aggressive. It can grow rapidly and may undergo early metastasis, however it is very sensitive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Which lung cancer type is most likely present
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Small-cell carcinoma
Explanation:Small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) is a type of highly malignant cancer that most commonly arises within the lung. SCLC usually metastasizes widely very early on in the natural history of the tumour, and in nearly all cases responds dramatically to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Surgery has no role in the treatment of this disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 168
Incorrect
-
A patient underwent surgical excision of mass in the right carotid triangle. One day after the surgery patient complained of numbness of the skin over the right side of the neck. Injury to the cervical plexus of nerves is suspected. What is the possible nerve affected in this patient?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Transverse cervical
Explanation:The transverse cervical nerve (superficial cervical or cutaneous cervical) arises from the second and third spinal nerves, turns around the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid and, passing obliquely forward beneath the external jugular vein to the anterior border of the muscle, it perforates the deep cervical fascia, and divides beneath the platysma into the ascending and descending branches. It provides cutaneous innervation to this area.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 169
Incorrect
-
What best describes the muscles of the posterior compartment of the leg?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: One of the posterior compartment leg muscles laterally rotates the femur
Explanation:The muscles of the back of the leg are subdivided into two groups: superficial and deep. Superficial muscles include gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris and are the chief extensors of the foot at the ankle joint. Deep muscles include the tibialis posterior, flexor hallucis longus, flexor digitorum longus and popliteus
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 170
Incorrect
-
A retroperitoneal structure is:
Your Answer:
Correct 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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 171
Incorrect
-
What is the reason for a deranged thrombin clotting time?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Heparin therapy
Explanation:Thrombic clotting time is also known as thrombin time. It is clinically performed to determine the therapeutic levels of heparin. After plasma is isolated from the blood, bovine thrombin is added to it and the time it takes from the addition to clot is recorded. The reference interval is usually <21s. deranged results are indicative of heparin therapy, hypofibrinogenemia, hyperfibrinogenaemia or lupus anticoagulant.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 172
Incorrect
-
The most likely cause of a low p(O2) in arterial blood is:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Hypoxic hypoxia
Explanation:Hypoxia is when the whole body or a region is deprived of adequate oxygen supply. Different types of hypoxia include the following:
– Hypoxic hypoxia, which occurs due to poor oxygen supply, as a result of low partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. This could be due to low partial pressure of atmospheric oxygen (e.g., at high altitude), sleep apnoea, poor ventilation because of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or respiratory arrest, or shunts. The other types of hypoxia have a normal partial pressure of oxygen.
– Anaemic hypoxia occurs due to low total oxygen content of the blood, with a normal arterial oxygen pressure.
– Hyperaemic hypoxia occurs due to poor delivery of oxygen to target tissues, such as in carbon monoxide poisoning or methemoglobinemia.
– Histotoxic hypoxia results due to inability of the cells to use the delivered oxygen due to disabled oxidative phosphorylation enzymes.
– Ischaemic (or stagnant) hypoxia occurs due to local flow restriction of well-oxygenated blood, seen in cases like cerebral ischaemia, ischaemic heart disease and intrauterine hypoxia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 173
Incorrect
-
A diabetic 58-year-old man, after the injection of radiographic contrast, has a decreased urine output and decreased level of consciousness. Which of the following conditions has he most likely developed
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Acute tubular necrosis
Explanation:Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) involves damage to the tubule cells of the kidneys and is the most common cause of acute kidney injury. ATN in the majority of the cases is caused by ischaemia of the kidneys due to lack of perfusion and oxygenation but it may also occur due to poison or harmful substance. Contrast used for radiology may cause ATN in patients with several risk factors e.g. diabetic nephropathy. Symptoms may include oliguria, nausea, fluid retention, fatigue and decreased consciousness.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Renal
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Question 174
Incorrect
-
Blood supply to the posterior compartment of the thigh is supplied by which artery?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Perforating
Explanation:There are usually 3 perforating arteries:
The first gives branches to the adductor brevis and magnus, biceps femoris and gluteus maximus and anastomoses with the inferior gluteal, medial and lateral femoral circumflex.
The second artery supplies the posterior femoral muscles and anastomose with the first and third perforating vessels.
The third supplies the posterior femoral muscles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 175
Incorrect
-
Which of the following muscle divide the posterior triangle of the neck into the occipital and the subclavian triangle?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Inferior belly of the omohyoid
Explanation:The posterior triangle (or lateral cervical region) is a region of the neck bounded in front by the sternocleidomastoid; behind, by the anterior margin of the trapezius; inferiorly by the middle third of the clavicle and superiorly by the occipital bone. The posterior triangle is crossed, about 2.5 cm above the clavicle, by the inferior belly of the omohyoid muscle, which divides the space into two triangles: an upper or occipital triangle and a lower or subclavian triangle (or supraclavicular triangle).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 176
Incorrect
-
A patient is diagnosed with Brucellosis. What is the mode of transmission of this disease?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Unpasteurised milk
Explanation:Brucellosis is a highly contagious zoonosis caused by ingestion of unpasteurized milk or undercooked meat from infected animals, or close contact with their secretions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 177
Incorrect
-
A gymnast was admitted to hospital for investigation of a weakness in the extension and adduction of his arm. He had a previous penetrating wound in the area of the posterior axillary fold. Which of these muscles is the likely cause?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Latissimus dorsi
Explanation:All the criteria of this case points towards the latissimus dorsi. This muscle is greatly involved in extension, adduction and medial rotation of the arm and forms the posterior axillary fold which in this case was injured.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 178
Incorrect
-
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:
Correct 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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing; Cardiovascular
- Pathology
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Question 179
Incorrect
-
Inside the palatoglossal arch is a muscle. Which nerve innervates this muscle?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: X
Explanation:The palatoglossal arch contains the palatoglossal muscle which is innervated by the vagus nerve which is the tenth cranial nerve. So the correct answer is X
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head & Neck
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Question 180
Incorrect
-
Which antibiotic acts by inhibiting protein synthesis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Erythromycin
Explanation:Penicillins and cephalosporins (e.g. cefuroxime, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone) inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis through the inhibition of peptidoglycan cross-linking.
Macrolides (e.g. erythromycin), tetracyclines, aminoglycosides and chloramphenicol act by interfering with bacterial protein synthesis.
Sulphonamides (e.g. trimethoprim, co-trimoxazole) work by inhibiting the synthesis of nucleic acid
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology; Microbiology
- Physiology
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Question 181
Incorrect
-
A 5 year-old-child with fever complains of sore throat . She was brought to her paediatrician for consult because she has also developed a rash and has swollen lymph nodes. Upon physical examination she cried when her liver was palpated and the tip of her spleen is slightly palpable. Full blood count shows haemoglobin 13 g/dL, Haematocrit 40%, white blood cell count 13x109/L with a WBC differential count of 45 neutrophils, 4 bands, 26 lymphocytes, 15 atypical lymphocytesm, 10 monocytes and 1 eosinophil. Whick is the most likely infectious agent that is responsible for the patient's condition?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Epstein–Barr virus
Explanation:Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpes virus 4,is a member of the herpes virus family. EBV spreads most commonly through bodily fluids, primarily saliva. EBV can cause infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms of EBV can include fatigue, fever, inflamed throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, enlarged spleen, swollen liver and rash.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathology
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Question 182
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:
Correct Answer: Renal tubular acidosis
Explanation:Acidosis here is due to low bicarbonate. The low p(CO2) is seen in compensation. The anion gap is normal, ruling out intra-abdominal ischaemia (which leads to metabolic acidosis). If it was a gastrointestinal aetiology, low potassium would be seen. The history of diabetic nephropathy predisposes to renal tubular acidosis. Type 4 (hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism) is associated with high potassium and is found in diabetic and hypertensive renal disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 183
Incorrect
-
Which lymph nodes are most likely to enlarge due to the spread of infection through the lymphatic channels in a patient with a boil on his scrotum?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Superficial inguinal nodes
Explanation:The superficial inguinal nodes drain the perineum and the external genitalia which include the scrotum and the labia majora. The testes, however, drain to the lumbar nodes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Pelvis
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Question 184
Incorrect
-
A 57-year-old male smoker noted a lump on his inner lip. Upon physical examination the lump measured more than 2 cm but less than 4 cm in its greatest dimension. He is diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the lip. What is the stage of the patient's cancer according to the TNM staging for head and neck cancers?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: T2
Explanation:Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that starts within the mouth, nose, throat, larynx, sinuses, or salivary glands. The TNM staging system used for head and neck cancers is a clinical staging system that allows physicians to compare results across patients, assess prognosis, and design appropriate treatment regimens. The staging is as follows; Primary tumour (T): Tis: pre-invasive cancer (carcinoma in situ), T0: no evidence of primary tumour, T1: tumour 2 cm or less in its greatest dimension, T2: tumour more than 2 cm but not more than 4 cm, T3: tumour larger than 4 cm, T4: tumour with extension to bone, muscle, skin, antrum, neck, etc and TX: minimum requirements to assess primary tumour cannot be met. Regional lymph node involvement (N): N0: no evidence of regional lymph node involvement, N1: evidence of involvement of movable homolateral regional lymph nodes, N2: evidence of involvement of movable contralateral or bilateral regional lymph nodes, N3: evidence of involvement of fixed regional lymph nodes and NX: Minimum requirements to assess the regional nodes cannot be met. Distant metastases (M): M0: no evidence of distant metastases, M1: evidence of distant metastases and MX: minimum requirements to assess the presence of distant metastases cannot be met. Staging: Stage I: T1 N0 M0, Stage II: T2 N0 M0, Stage III: T2NOMO and T3N1MO, Stage IV: T4N1M0, any TN2M0, any TN3M0, any T and any NM1. The depth of infiltration is predictive of the prognosis. With increasing depth of invasion of the primary tumour, the risk of nodal metastasis increases and survival decreases. The patient in this scenario therefore has a T2 tumour.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neoplasia
- Pathology
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Question 185
Incorrect
-
A 5-year-old child diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome developed generalised oedema. What is the mechanism for the development of oedema in patients with nephrotic syndrome?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Decreased colloid osmotic pressure
Explanation:The development of oedema in nephrotic syndrome has traditionally been viewed as an underfill mechanism. According to this view, urinary loss of protein results in hypoalbuminemia and decreased plasma oncotic pressure. As a result, plasma water translocates out of the intravascular space and results in a decrease in intravascular volume. In response to the underfilled circulation, effector mechanisms are then activated that signal the kidney to secondarily retain salt and water. While an underfill mechanism may be responsible for oedema formation in a minority of patients, recent clinical and experimental findings would suggest that oedema formation in most nephrotic patients is the result of primary salt retention. Direct measurements of blood and plasma volume or measurement of neurohumoral markers that indirectly reflect effective circulatory volume are mostly consistent with either euvolemia or a volume expanded state. The ability to maintain plasma volume in the setting of a decreased plasma oncotic pressure is achieved by alterations in transcapillary exchange mechanisms known to occur in the setting of hypoalbuminemia that limit excessive capillary fluid filtration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Pathology
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Question 186
Incorrect
-
Which of the following proteins prevents red blood cells (RBCs) from bursting when they pass through capillaries?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Spectrin
Explanation:Spectrin is a structural protein found in the cytoskeleton that lines the intercellular side of the membrane of cells which include RBCs. They maintain the integrity and structure of the cell. It is arranged into a hexagonal arrangement formed from tetramers of spectrin and associated with short actin filaments that form junctions allowing the RBC to distort its shape.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 187
Incorrect
-
The wound healing process is documented in patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures. The port incisions are sutured closed and the wounds observed every few weeks for re-epithelialisation and tensile strength. Which substance is mostly likely to be found at a cellular level involved in wound healing?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Tyrosine kinase
Explanation:Cell surface growth factor receptors require intercellular proteins such as tyrosine kinase which are necessary to initiate a series of events that eventually lead to cell division and growth. Tyrosine kinase is an enzyme that transfers a phosphate group to the tyrosine residue in a protein. This phosphorylation will lead to an up regulation of the enzyme activity.
Fibronectin acts in the extracellular matrix to bind macromolecules (such as proteoglycans) via integrin receptors to aid attachment and migration of cells.
Laminin is an extracellular matrix component that is abundant in basement membranes.
Hyaluronic acid is one of the proteoglycans in the extracellular matrix.
Collagen fibres are part of the extracellular matrix that gives strength and stability to connective tissues.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 188
Incorrect
-
During clinic, a medical student conducts a physical examination on a teenage boy with a lump in the inguinal region. The lump is protruding from the superficial inguinal ring. The student correctly concluded that it was:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Either a direct or an indirect inguinal hernia
Explanation:It is not possible to tell if an inguinal hernia is direct or indirect just by palpating it. Despite the fact that indirect inguinal hernias commonly come out of the superficial inguinal ring to enter the scrotum, direct inguinal hernia might still do this.
Femoral hernia goes through the femoral ring into the femoral canal (has nothing to do with the superficial inguinal ring).
Superficial inguinal lymph nodes lie in the superficial fascia parallel to the inguinal ligament; it would therefore feel more superficial and would not be mistaken for a hernia protruding through the inguinal ring.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Abdomen
- Anatomy
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Question 189
Incorrect
-
A surgeon performing a thymectomy to remove a malignant thymoma is careful to avoid damaging an important nerve lying around the arch of the aorta. Which nerve is the surgeon trying to preserve?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Left Vagus
Explanation:The left vagus nerve lies on the lateral surface of the aortic arch. The left recurrent laryngeal nerve arises from the vagus and loops around the arch of the aorta. This nerve is at risk of injury during surgery.
The right and left phrenic nerves, being lateral to the vagus, do not loop around the arch of the aorta.
The sympathetic trunks, both right and left, are located in the posterior chest; not near the aortic arch.
The right vagus: not involved with the aortic arch.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 190
Incorrect
-
A teenage Somalian boy presents with a complaint of an enlarged lower jaw. His blood film shows blast cells and macrophages. Which virus is responsible for this?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Epstein–Barr virus
Explanation:Burkitt’s lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Histologically it is characterised by a starry sky appearance due to numerous neoplastic macrophages which are required to clear the rapidly dividing tumour cells/blast cells. Burkitt’s lymphoma commonly affects the jaw bone, forming a huge tumour mass. It is associated with translocation of c-myc gene and has three types: 1) endemic/African type, 2)sporadic and 3)immunodeficiency-associated. The first type is strongly associated with EBV.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 191
Incorrect
-
During routine laboratory tests, a 66-year-old man is found to be suffering from hypercholesterolaemia and is prescribed atorvastatin. What is the mechanism of action of atorvastatin?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Inhibits cholesterol synthesis
Explanation:Atorvastatin is a member of the drug class of statins, used for lowering cholesterol. The mode of action of statins is inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase. This enzyme is needed by the body to make cholesterol. The primary uses of atorvastatin is for the treatment of dyslipidaemia and the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 192
Incorrect
-
Which of these infectious agents tends to affect people under 20 and over 40 years old, can cause acute encephalitis with cerebral oedema and petechial haemorrhages, along with haemorrhagic lesions of the temporal lobe. A lumbar puncture will reveal clear cerebrospinal fluid with an elevated lymphocyte count?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Herpes simplex virus
Explanation:Haemorrhagic lesions of the temporal lobe are typical of Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE). It tends to affect patients aged under 20 or over 40 years, and is often fatal if left untreated. In acute encephalitis, cerebral oedema and petechial haemorrhages occur and direct viral invasion of the brain usually damages neurones. The majority of cases of herpes encephalitis are caused by herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), and about 10% of cases of herpes encephalitis are due to HSV-2, which is typically spread through sexual contact.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Pathology
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Question 193
Incorrect
-
What causes a reduction in pulmonary functional residual capacity?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Pulmonary fibrosis
Explanation:Pulmonary functional residual capacity (FRC) is = volume of air present in the lungs at the end of passive expiration.
Obstructive diseases (e.g. emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma) = an increase in FRC due to an increase in lung compliance and air trapping.
Restrictive diseases (e.g. pulmonary fibrosis) result in stiffer, less compliant lungs and a reduction in FRC.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 194
Incorrect
-
In which of the following situations will fat necrosis occur?
Your Answer:
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Injury & Wound Healing
- Pathology
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Question 195
Incorrect
-
Depression of the normal coagulation system and excessive bleeding after surgery can occur in which of the following medical conditions?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Liver disease
Explanation:As most of the coagulation factors are synthesized in the liver, liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis will depress the coagulation system. Vitamin K deficiency can also decrease the production of vitamin K dependent coagulation factors VII, XI, X and prothrombin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General
- Physiology
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Question 196
Incorrect
-
upon stroking the plantar surface of a patient's foot, extension of toes was noted. This is likely to be accompanied with:
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Spasticity
Explanation:An upper motor neuron lesion affects the neural pathway above the anterior horn cell or motor nuclei of the cranial nerves, whereas a lower motor neurone lesion affects nerve fibres travelling from the anterior horn of the spinal cord to the relevant muscles. An upper motor neurone lesions results in the following:
– Spasticity in the extensor muscles (lower limbs) or flexor muscles (upper limbs).
– ‘clasp-knife’ response where initial resistance to movement is followed by relaxation
– Weakness in the flexors (lower limbs) or extensors (upper limbs) with no muscle wasting
– Brisk tendon jerk reflexes
– Positive Babinski sign (on stimulation of the sole of the foot, the big toe is raised rather than curled downwards)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Neurology
- Physiology
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Question 197
Incorrect
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A 22-year old man presented with a mass in his left scrotum which was more prominent when standing and felt like a 'bag of worms'. Examination revealed a non-tender mass along the spermatic cord. Also, the right testis was larger than the left testis. What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Varicocele
Explanation:Varicocele refers to dilatation and increased tortuosity of the pampiniform plexus – which is a network of veins found in spermatic cord that drain the testicle. Defective valves or extrinsic compression can result in outflow obstruction and cause dilatation near the testis. Normal diameter of the small vessels ranges from 0.5 – 1.5mm. A varicocele is a dilatation more than 2mm.
The plexus travels from the posterior aspect of testis into the inguinal canal with other structures forming the spermatic cord. They then form the testicular veins out of which the right testicular vein drains into the inferior vena cava and the left into the left renal vein.
It affects 15-20% men, and 40% of infertile males. Usually diagnosed in 15-25 years of age, they are rarely seen after 40 years of age. Because of the vertical path taken by the left testicular vein to drain into left renal vein, 98% idiopathic varicoceles occur on the left side. It is bilateral in 70% cases. Right-sided varicoceles are rare.
Symptoms include pain or heaviness in the testis, infertility, testicular atrophy, a palpable mass, which is non-tender and along the spermatic cord (resembling a ‘bag of worms’). The testis on the affected side might be smaller.
Diagnosis can be made by ultrasound. Provocative measures such as Valsalva manoeuvre or making the patient stand up to increase the dilatation by increasing the intra-abdominal venous pressure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Urology
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Question 198
Incorrect
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A victim of assault in a domestic violence is stabbed in the left chest. The tip of the pen knife entered the pleural space just above the cardiac notch. Luckily the lung was spared as it would only occupy this space during deep inspiration. Which of these structures was pierced by the knife?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Costomediastinal recess
Explanation:The costomediastinal recess is located immediately next to the cardiac notch. The medial aspect of the superior lobe of the left lung, when fully inflated expands to this place. The lung wouldn’t enter the anterior or the posterior mediastinum which are found between the two pleural cavities.
The costodiaphragmatic recess is the lowest extent of the pleural cavity where the inferior lobes of the lungs would expand into in deep inhalation.
The cupola, is the part of the pleural cavity that extends above the first rib into the root of the neck. The superior most part of the superior lobe of the lung might extend into this part.
Pulmonary ligament: pleural fold that is located below the root of the lung where the visceral pleura and the mediastinal pleura are in continuity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 199
Incorrect
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A 29-year-old pregnant woman suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum is prescribed metoclopramide. What is the mechanism of action of metoclopramide?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Dopamine antagonist
Explanation:Metoclopramide is a potent dopamine-receptor antagonist with anti-emetic and prokinetic properties. It is therefore commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, and to facilitate gastric emptying in patients with gastric stasis. The anti-emetic action of metoclopramide is due to its antagonist activity at D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the central nervous system. Common adverse drug reactions associated with metoclopramide include restlessness (akathisia), and focal dystonia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
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Question 200
Incorrect
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Which among the following vertebrae marks the lowest extent of the superior mediastinum?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Fourth thoracic
Explanation:The superior mediastinum lies between the manubrium anteriorly and the upper vertebrae of the thorax posteriorly. Below, it is bound by a slightly oblique plane that passes backward from the sternal angle to the lower part of the body of T4 and laterally by the pleura.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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