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Question 1
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A 30-year-old woman is referred to endocrinology with thyrotoxicosis. Following a discussion of management options, she chooses to have radioiodine therapy. Which one of the following is the most likely adverse effect?
Your Answer: Hypothyroidism
Explanation:Approximately one third of patients treated with radioiodine therapy develop transient hypothyroidism. Unless a patient is highly symptomatic, thyroxine replacement may be withheld if hypothyroidism occurs within the first 2 months of therapy. If it persists for longer than 2 months, permanent hypothyroidism is likely and replacement with T4 should be initiated.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
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Question 2
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A 32-year-old gentleman presents to his GP with a 2 month history of constant abdominal pain and early satiety. He has hypertension for which he takes enalapril. On examination, he has mild tenderness on both flanks. Well-circumscribed masses are palpable in both the left and right flanks. A soft systolic murmur is heard loudest at the apex. His observations are heart rate 67/min, blood pressure 152/94mmHg, temperature 37.2C, respiratory rate 14/min, saturations 97%. Which additional feature is most likely to be found in this patient?
Your Answer: Hepatomegaly
Explanation:This patient shows classic symptoms of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The abdominal pain and early satiety is caused by the enlarged kidneys that were apparent from the physical examination. Additionally, hypertension is a common symptom along with the systolic murmur that was heard, suggesting mitral valve involvement. In ADPKD cases, the most common extra-renal manifestation is the development of liver cysts which are associated with hepatomegaly.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Nephrology
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Question 3
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A 34-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with a one-week history of dark urine and fatigue. One day before admission, she developed severe abdominal pain and abdominal distension. On examination, she has pallor, jaundice, an enlarged tender liver, and ascites. Her investigations show: Hb: 7.9 g/dL, WCC: 3.2 x 10^9/L, Plts: 89 x 10^9/L, MCV: 101 fL. Peripheral smear: Mild polychromasia, AST: 144 U/L, ALT: 130 U/L, Bilirubin: 54 μmol/L. Urine hemosiderin: ++, Urine urobilinogen +. Abdominal ultrasound reveals an enlarged liver, ascites, and absent flow in the hepatic veins. Which single test would you request to confirm the underlying diagnosis?
Your Answer: Flow cytometry for CD55 and CD59 expression
Explanation:The patient has paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) complicated by acute hepatic vein thrombosis (Budd–Chiari syndrome).
PNH is an acquired clonal disorder of haematopoietic stem cells, characterised by variable combination of intravascular haemolysis, thrombosis, and bone marrow failure. Diagnosis is made by flow cytometric evaluation of blood, which confirms the CD55 and CD59 deficiencies and deficiency of expression of other GPI-linked proteins. This test is replacing older complement-based assays such as the Ham test and sucrose lysis test.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology & Oncology
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Question 4
Correct
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A 20-year-old man presents with an acute exacerbation of asthma associated with a chest infection. He is unable to complete a sentence and his peak flow rate was 34% of his normal level. He is treated with high-flow oxygen, nebulised bronchodilators, and oral corticosteroids for three days, but his condition has not improved. Â Which of the following intravenous treatments would be the best option for this patient?
Your Answer: Magnesium
Explanation:A single dose of intravenous magnesium sulphate is safe and may improve lung function and reduce intubation rates in patients with acute severe asthma. Intravenous magnesium sulphate may also reduce hospital admissions in adults with acute asthma who have had little or no response to standard treatment.
Consider giving a single dose of intravenous magnesium sulphate to patients with acute severe asthma (PEF <50% best or predicted) who have not had a good initial response to inhaled bronchodilator therapy. Magnesium sulphate (1.2–2 g IV infusion over 20 minutes) should only be used following consultation with senior medical staff.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory
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Question 5
Correct
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A 27-year-old consultant who has a family history of retinitis pigmentosa is reviewed in the ophthalmology clinic. He reports worsening vision over the past few months. During fundoscopy, which of the following findings would most support a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa?
Your Answer: Black bone spicule-shaped pigmentation in the peripheral retina
Explanation:Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder primarily affecting the peripheral retina resulting in tunnel vision. Night blindness is often the initial sign. Fundoscopy exam reveals black bone spicule-shaped pigmentation in the peripheral retina, and mottling of the retinal pigment epithelium.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Ophthalmology
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Question 6
Incorrect
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A 55 yr. old female with a history of hypertension presented with severe central chest pain for the past one hour, associated with sweating and vomiting. Her ECG showed ST elevation myocardial infarction, evident in leads V2-V4. Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for thrombolysis?
Your Answer: Ischaemic stroke 2 years previously
Correct Answer: Intracranial neoplasm
Explanation:Absolute contraindications for fibrinolytic use in STEMI
Prior intracranial haemorrhage (ICH)
Known structural cerebral vascular lesion
Known malignant intracranial neoplasm
Ischemic stroke within 3 months
Suspected aortic dissection
Active bleeding or bleeding diathesis (excluding menses)
Significant closed head trauma or facial trauma within 3 months
Intracranial or intraspinal surgery within 2 months
Severe uncontrolled hypertension (unresponsive to emergency therapy)
For streptokinase, prior treatment within the previous 6 months -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiology
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Question 7
Correct
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A 72 year old female, known with rheumatoid arthritis for last 17 years, presents with recurrent attacks of red eyes with a sensation of grittiness. Which of the following is most likely cause of the red eyes?
Your Answer: keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Explanation:Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory systemic disease associated with some extraarticular manifestations. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, episcleritis, scleritis, corneal changes, and retinal vasculitis are the most common ocular complications among extraarticular manifestations of RA. The overall prevalence of keratoconjunctivitis sicca also known as dry eye syndrome among patients of RA is 21.2% and is the most common with sense of grittiness in the eyes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Rheumatology
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Question 8
Correct
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A 21 year-old male, who is a known alcoholic, presents with a fever, haemoptysis, green sputum and an effusion clinically. There is concern that it may be an empyema. Â Which test would be most useful to resolve the suspicion?
Your Answer: Pleural fluid pH
Explanation:If a pleural effusion is present, a diagnostic thoracentesis may be performed and analysed for pH, lactate dehydrogenase, glucose levels, specific gravity, and cell count with differential. Pleural fluid may also be sent for Gram stain, culture, and sensitivity. Acid-fast bacillus testing may also be considered and the fluid may be sent for cytology if cancer is suspected.
The following findings are suggestive of an empyema or parapneumonic effusion that will likely need a chest tube or pigtail catheter for complete resolution:
-Grossly purulent pleural fluid
-pH level less than 7.2
-WBC count greater than 50,000 cells/µL (or polymorphonuclear leukocyte count of 1,000 IU/dL)
-Glucose level less than 60 mg/dL
-Lactate dehydrogenase level greater than 1,000 IU/mL
-Positive pleural fluid cultureThe most often used golden criteria for empyema are pleural effusion with macroscopic presence of pus, a positive Gram stain or culture of pleural fluid, or a pleural fluid pH under 7.2 with normal peripheral blood ph.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory
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Question 9
Incorrect
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A 51-year-old man was brought to the Emergency department for loose stools. He was dehydrated, weak and in shock. He had previously been complaining of large stool volumes for a one month period. Stool colour was normal. There was no history of laxative abuse and no significant past medical history. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Carcinoid syndrome
Correct Answer: VIPoma
Explanation:Given that the patient has had large amount, high volume watery diarrhoea in an acute period of time, from the answer choices given, this narrows the diagnosis down to VIPoma or carcinoid syndrome. You would expect with carcinoid syndrome for there to be periodic episodes of diarrhoea, though, with a description of flushing, additionally, associated with these episodes. Thus, VIPoma is the most likely answer here. VIPomas are known to cause hypokalaemia from this large amount of watery diarrhoea. Stool volume should be > 700 ml/day.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
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Question 10
Incorrect
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A 50 year old woman with a 30 pack year history of smoking presents with a persistent cough and occasional haemoptysis. A chest x-ray which is done shows no abnormality. What percentage of recent chest x-rays were reported as normal in patients who are subsequently diagnosed with lung cancer?
Your Answer: 20%
Correct Answer: 10%
Explanation:A retrospective cohort study of the primary care records of 247 lung cancer patients diagnosed between 1998–2002 showed that 10% of the X-rays were reported as normal.
Other tests may include:
– Imaging tests: A CT scan can reveal small lesions in your lungs that might not be detected on an X-ray.
– Sputum cytology: sputum may reveal the presence of lung cancer cells.
– Tissue sample (biopsy): A sample of abnormal cells may be removed for histological analysis. A biopsy may be performed in a number of ways, including bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy and needle biopsy. A biopsy sample may also be taken from adjacent lymph nodes. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory
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Question 11
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A 55-year-old man with a three-year history of type 2 diabetes comes to the clinic for review. He is currently managed with metformin 1 g BD and feels that his home blood glucose monitoring has deteriorated over the past few months. There is a history of hypertension and dyslipidaemia for which he takes Ramipril 10 mg daily and atorvastatin 20 mg. On examination, his BP is 155/82 mmHg, his pulse is 71 and regular. His chest is clear. His BMI is 32. Investigations show: Haemoglobin 12.9 g/dl (13.5 – 17.7), White cell count 5.0 x109/l (4 – 11), Platelets 180 x109/l (150 – 400), Sodium 140 mmol/l (135 – 146), Potassium 5.0 mmol/l (3.5 – 5), Creatinine 123 mmol/l (79 – 118), HbA1c 8.0% (<7.0). He would like to start sitagliptin. Which of the following adverse effects would you warn him about?
Your Answer: Pancreatitis
Explanation:Sitagliptin-induced pancreatitis can occur at any time after the initiation of therapy, even after several years. Patients taking sitagliptin who present with signs and symptoms of mild or severe pancreatitis should immediately discontinue sitagliptin and use an alternate medication regimen for control of type 2 diabetes.
In response to pancreatitis reported in post-marketing surveillance through the Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS), the FDA has issued revised prescribing information for sitagliptin stating that cases of acute pancreatitis have been reported with use, to monitor closely for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, and to use sitagliptin with caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
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Question 12
Correct
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A 28-year-old woman is referred to the endocrinology clinic. She has been trying to conceive for the last 3 years without any success. Her prolactin level is 2600 mU/l (normal <360). The Endocrinologist arranges pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that demonstrates a microprolactinoma. Which two of the following pharmacological agents may be appropriate treatment choices?
Your Answer: Carbergoline
Explanation:Cabergoline, an ergot derivative, is a long-acting dopamine agonist. It is usually better tolerated than Bromocriptine (BEC), and its efficacy profiles are somewhat superior to those of BEC. It offers the convenience of twice-a-week administration, with a usual starting dose of 0.25 mg biweekly to a maximum dose of 1 mg biweekly. Some studies have shown efficacy even with once-a-week dosing. Cabergoline appears to be more effective in lowering prolactin levels and restoring ovulation. Up to 70% of patients who do not respond to BEC respond to cabergoline.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
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Question 13
Incorrect
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A 54 year old gentleman presented with a 3 month history of a nodular growth over the dorsum of the his nose, about 0.6 cm in size. The base of nodule is slightly ulcerated and its margins are raised. The most likely diagnosis would be?
Your Answer: Melanoma
Correct Answer: Basal cell carcinoma
Explanation:Basal cell carcinoma is usually located on sun exposed sites. It has got many variants and clinically it presents as a slow growing mass/nodule with rolled margins and an ulcerated base.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
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Question 14
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Which of the following treatments would you advise for a young, 21 year old student who has ankylosing spondylitis and complains of worsening back pain and morning stiffness?
Your Answer: Oral NSAIDs
Explanation:NSAIDs are considered as the first line of treatment for managing pain and stiffness associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Other useful medications include TNF-alpha inhibitors. Other drugs like paracetamol, colchicine, and steroids are not routinely used. Bilateral total hip replacement might be indicated in advanced disease contrary to complicated spinal surgery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Rheumatology
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Question 15
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A 28-year-old female admitted for a course of chemotherapy, has been taking high dose steroids for a few days. The nurses report that she is very agitated and talks about trying to open the window of her room and jump out from the fourth floor. You review her notes and see that she admits to drinking a few glasses of wine per week and has smoked cannabis on a few occasions. On examination her BP is 145/88 mmHg, her pulse is 80 bpm. Blood investigations reveal: Haemoglobin: 12.1 g/dL (11.5-16.5) WBC count: 16.2 x 103/dL (4-11) Platelets: 200 x 109/L (150-400) C-reactive protein: 9 nmol/l (<10) Sodium: 140 mmol/l (135-146) Potassium: 3.9 mmol/l (3.5-5) Creatinine: 92 μmol/l (79-118) Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Corticosteroid-related psychosis
Explanation:Agitation, hypomania and suicidal intent within a few days after initiating corticosteroid therapy is highly suggestive of a diagnosis of corticosteroid-induced psychosis.
In some patients corticosteroid related psychosis has been diagnosed up to 12 weeks or more after commencing therapy.
Euphoria and hypomania are considered to be the most common psychiatric symptoms reported during short courses of steroids.
During long-term treatment, depressive symptoms were the most common.
Higher steroid doses appear to carry an increased risk for such adverse effects; however, there is no significant relationship between dose and time to onset, duration, and severity of symptoms.Management: Reduction or cessation of corticosteroids is the mainstay of treatment for steroid psychosis. For those patients who cannot tolerate this reduction/cessation of steroids, mood stabilizers may be of some benefit.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
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Question 16
Correct
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A 60 year old male presents with thickened patches of skin over his knuckles and extensor surfaces that are consistent with Gottron's papules. Results reveal an elevated creatine kinase. Diagnosis of dermatomyositis is suspected. Which of the following autoantibody is most specific for this condition?
Your Answer: Anti-Mi-2 antibodies
Explanation:Anti–Mi-2 antibodies are highly specific for dermatomyositis, but sensitivity is low; only 25% of patients with dermatomyositis demonstrate these antibodies. A positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) finding is common in patients with dermatomyositis, but is not necessary for diagnosis. Anti-Jo-1 antibodies are mostly associated with polymyositis. Anti Scl-70 antibodies and anti centromere antibodies are most commonly found in systemic scleroderma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Rheumatology
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Question 17
Correct
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A 28 year old woman presents with lethargy, arthralgia and cough. Over the past three weeks she has also developed painful erythematous nodules on both shins. Respiratory examination is normal. A chest x-ray is performed which is reported as follows: Bilateral mediastinal nodal enlargement. No evidence of lung parenchymal disease. Normal cardiac size. Given the likely diagnosis, what would be the most appropriate course of action?
Your Answer: Observation
Explanation:Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that affects one or more organs but most commonly affects the lungs and lymph glands. The inflammation may change the normal structure and possibly the function of the affected organ(s).
The presentation in sarcoidosis varies with the extent and severity of organ involvement, as follows:
Asymptomatic (incidentally detected on chest imaging): Approximately 5% of cases.
Systemic complaints (fever, anorexia): 45% of cases
Pulmonary complaints (dyspnoea on exertion, cough, chest pain, and haemoptysis [rare]): 50% of casesLöfgren syndrome (fever, bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, and polyarthralgias): Common in Scandinavian patients, but uncommon in African-American and Japanese patients.
Dermatologic manifestations may include the following:
– Erythema nodosum
– A lower-extremity panniculitis with painful, erythematous nodules (often with Löfgren syndrome)
– Lupus pernio (the most specific associated cutaneous lesion)
– Violaceous rash on the cheeks or nose (common)
– Maculopapular plaques (uncommon)Staging of sarcoidosis is as follows:
Stage 0: Normal chest radiographic findings
Stage I: Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy
Stage II: Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy and infiltrates
Stage III: Infiltrates alone
Stage IV: FibrosisNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are indicated for the treatment of arthralgias and other rheumatic complaints. Patients with stage I sarcoidosis often require only occasional treatment with NSAIDs.
Treatment in patients with pulmonary involvement is as follows:
Asymptomatic patients may not require treatment
In patients with minimal symptoms, serial re-evaluation is prudent
Treatment is indicated for patients with significant respiratory symptoms
Corticosteroids can produce small improvements in the functional vital capacity and in the radiographic appearance in patients with more severe stage II and III disease.This patient has Stage 1 Sarcoidosis so observation is the most appropriate action.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Respiratory
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Question 18
Correct
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A 25 year old female presented with multiple small genital ulcers, which are painful following a sexual intercourse with an unknown man. Which of the following can be used topically for this presentation?
Your Answer: Acyclovir
Explanation:The most probable diagnosis is Herpes Simplex infection. Topical Acyclovir can be used in early stages.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
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Question 19
Incorrect
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Which one of the following statements regarding hepatocellular carcinoma is correct?
Your Answer: Alcohol excess is the most common underlying cause worldwide
Correct Answer: Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor
Explanation:Diabetes is a risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. Screening has been shown to be effective. Bevacizumab is not used for advanced cases. The incidence is higher in men. Alcohol is not the most common underlying cause worldwide; this is from cirrhosis from diseases like hepatitis B and C.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastroenterology
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Question 20
Correct
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A 46-year-old woman was referred to the endocrinology department with hypercalcemia and raised parathyroid hormone levels. Her blood tests are highly suggestive of primary hyperparathyroidism. She has type 2 diabetes controlled by metformin alone. Her albumin-adjusted serum calcium level is 3.5 mmol/litre. Which of the following is the most important reason for her referral?
Your Answer: Albumin-adjusted serum calcium level of 3.5 mmol/litre
Explanation:Indications for surgery for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism:
1. Symptoms of hypercalcaemia such as thirst, frequent or excessive urination, or constipation
2. End-organ disease (renal stones, fragility fractures or osteoporosis)
3. An albumin-adjusted serum calcium level of 2.85 mmol/litre or above. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
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