Context:
A 39-year-old female presents to the clinic with the complaints of dry skin for a few months. She adds that she also has constipation for which she started eating vegetables and fruits but with no improvement. She lives with her husband and children who often complain when she turns the air conditioning to high as she cannot tolerate low temperatures. She has gained 5 kgs (11.2 lb) since her last visit 2 months back although her diet has not changed much. Her past medical history is relevant for cardiac arrhythmias and diabetes. She is on several medications currently. Her temperature is 98.6° F (37° C), respirations are 15/min, pulse is 57/min and blood pressure is 132/98 mm Hg. A physical examination is within normal limits. Thyroid function test results are given below:
Serum
TSH: 13.0 μU/mL
Thyroxine (T4): 3.0 μg/dL
Triiodothyronine (T3): 100 ng/dL
Which of the following medications is most likely to be responsible for her symptoms?

Question:
Thyroid function test results are given below:
Serum
TSH: 13.0 μU/mL
Thyroxine (T4): 3.0 μg/dL
Triiodothyronine (T3): 100 ng/dL
Which of the following medications is most likely to be responsible for her symptoms?

Answer: Amiodarone


Context: A 62-year-old man with a past medical history of previous myocardial infarction, angina, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, and below knee amputation has developed new chest pain. His medication includes insulin, hydrochlorothiazide, lisinopril, metoprolol, daily aspirin, atorvastatin, and nitroglycerin as needed. His vitals include: blood pressure 135/87 mm Hg, pulse 52/min, and respirations 17/min. Coronary arteriography shows a reduced ejection fraction, a 65% stenosis of the left anterior descending artery, and a 75% stenosis of the left circumflex artery. Which of the following is the recommended treatment for the patient?

Question: Which of the following is the recommended treatment for the patient?

Answer: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)


Context: A newborn infant is born at 41 weeks gestation to a healthy G1P0 mother. The delivery was complicated by shoulder dystocia. The infant is in the 89th and 92th percentiles for height and weight, respectively. The mother's past medical history is notable for diabetes mellitus and obesity. Immediately after birth, the child's temperature is 99°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 90/50 mmHg, pulse is 120/min, and respirations are 24/min. The child demonstrates a strong cry and pink upper and lower extremities bilaterally. The left arm is adducted and internally rotated at the shoulder and extended at the elbow. Extension at the elbow and flexion and extension of the wrist appear to be intact in the left upper extremity. The right upper extremity appears to have normal strength and range of motion in all planes. Which of the following sets of nerves or nerve roots is most likely affected in this patient?

Question: Which of the following sets of nerves or nerve roots is most likely affected in this patient?

Answer: C5 and C6 nerve roots


Context: Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system yields a significant physiological effect on renal blood flow and filtration. Which of the following is most likely to occur in response to increased levels of Angiotensin-II?

Question: Which of the following is most likely to occur in response to increased levels of Angiotensin-II?

Answer: Decreased renal plasma flow, increased filtration fraction


Context: A 57-year-old woman presents to her family physician because of sinusitis and nasal drainage for 3 months. The nasal drainage is purulent and occasionally hemorrhagic. She has only temporary improvement after trying multiple over the counter medications. Over the last 2 weeks, she also has fatigue and joint pain, mainly affecting the ankles, knees, and wrists. Vital signs include: temperature 36.9°C (98.4°F), blood pressure 142/91 mm Hg, and pulse 82/min. On examination, there is inflammation and bleeding of the nasal mucosa, along with tenderness to percussion over the maxillary sinuses. Urine dipstick reveals 4+ microscopic hematuria and 2+ proteinuria. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis


Context: A 64-year-old male presents to the emergency room complaining of chest pain. He reports a pressure-like sensation over his sternum that radiates into his jaw. The pain came on suddenly 2 hours ago and has been constant since then. His past medical history is notable for a stable abdominal aortic aneurysm, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. He takes aspirin, enalapril, spironolactone, atorvastatin, canagliflozin, and metformin. His temperature is 99.1°F (37.3°C), blood pressure is 155/85 mmHg, pulse is 115/min, and respirations are 22/min. On exam, he is diaphoretic and in moderate distress. He is admitted for further management and does well after initial stabilization. He is seen two days later by the admitting team. This patient is at increased risk for a complication that is characterized by which of the following?

Question: This patient is at increased risk for a complication that is characterized by which of the following?

Answer: Friction rub


Context: A 69-year-old woman is rushed to the emergency room by her daughter after she found her unconscious. Bruises are visible on the patient’s torso and limbs, and it is evident that she has epistaxis. Her daughter says that the patient was diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura at 61 years of age and has not had a normal thrombocyte count since the time of diagnosis. She was treated with corticosteroids, which were discontinued several weeks ago. Her current platelet count is 4,000/mm3. Which of the following is the best next step in the treatment of this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the best next step in the treatment of this patient?

Answer: Administration of intravenous immunoglobulins


Context:
A 9-year-old girl is admitted to the hospital with a one-day history of acute abdominal pain and vomiting. She also has a two-day history of fever, headache, and neck pain. Her immunizations are up-to-date. She is confused and oriented only to place and person. Her temperature is 39.7°C (103.5°F), pulse is 148/min, blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg, and respiratory rate is 28/min. Cervical range of motion is limited by pain. The remainder of the neurologic examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 10.9 g/dL
Leukocyte count 44,000/mm3
Serum
pH 7.33
Na+ 130 mEq/L
Cl- 108 mEq/L
K+ 6.1 mEq/L
HCO3- 20 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen 34 mg/dL
Glucose 180 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.4 mg/dL
Urine ketones negative
A CT scan of the head shows enhancement of the arachnoid and pia mater. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis shows a leukocyte count of 3,400/μL (90% neutrophils), a glucose concentration of 50 mg/dL, protein concentration of 81 mg/dL, and no erythrocytes. Gram stain of the CSF shows gram-negative diplococci. This patient is at increased risk for which of the following complications?"

Question: This patient is at increased risk for which of the following complications?"

Answer: Adrenal hemorrhage


Context: A 48-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 6-month history of muscle stiffness, myalgia, and a 7-kg (15-lb) weight gain. Her last menstrual period was 4 months ago. Physical examination shows cold, dry skin, and proximal muscle weakness. Deep tendon reflexes are 2+ bilaterally, with delayed relaxation. The creatine kinase level is 2,940 U/L. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in diagnosis?

Answer: Thyroid function tests


Context: A 73-year-old man presents to the emergency department with acute substernal chest pain that began a few hours ago. The pain is described as a “pressure” that radiates to his left arm. His past medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia. He is on chlorthalidone for his hypertension and simvastatin for hyperlipidemia. He has a 30 pack-year history of smoking and drinks 1-2 beers on weekends. His EKG shows ST depressions in the anterior precordial leads and he is given the proper medications and sent for emergency revascularization. Seven days later, he develops dyspnea that worsens in the supine position. Bibasilar crackles are heard on pulmonary auscultation. Cardiac exam reveals a new 3/6 holosystolic murmur best heard at the left sternal border. What is the most likely etiology of this patient’s new symptoms?

Question: What is the most likely etiology of this patient’s new symptoms?

Answer: Papillary muscle rupture


Context: A 31-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department for a severe throbbing headache, nausea, and photophobia for 3 hours. She has severe occipital pain and chest tightness. Prior to onset of symptoms, she had attended a networking event where she had red wine and, shortly after, a snack consisting of salami and some dried fruits. The patient has recurrent migraine headaches and depression, for which she takes medication daily. She is mildly distressed, diaphoretic, and her face is flushed. Her temperature is 37.0°C (98.6 F), pulse is 90/min, respirations are 20/min, and blood pressure is 195/130 mmHg. She is alert and oriented. Deep-tendon reflexes are 2+ bilaterally. This patient's symptoms are most likely caused by a side effect of which of the following medications?

Question: This patient's symptoms are most likely caused by a side effect of which of the following medications?

Answer: Phenelzine


Context: A group of scientists is verifying previous research on DNA replication. The diagram below illustrates the theoretical DNA replication process in bacteria such as E. coli. Which of the following enzymes would need to be decreased to prevent the removal of RNA primers formed in the lagging strand?

Question: Which of the following enzymes would need to be decreased to prevent the removal of RNA primers formed in the lagging strand?

Answer: DNA polymerase I 5’ to 3’ exonuclease activity


Context: A 58-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by his family because of severe upper back pain, which he describes as ripping. The pain started suddenly 1 hour ago while he was watching television. He has hypertension for 13 years, but he is not compliant with his medications. He denies the use of nicotine, alcohol or illicit drugs. His temperature is 36.5°C (97.7°F), the heart rate is 110/min and the blood pressure is 182/81 mm Hg in the right arm and 155/71 mm Hg in the left arm. CT scan of the chest shows an intimal flap limited to the descending aorta. Intravenous opioid analgesia is started. Which of the following is the best next step in the management of this patient condition?

Question: Which of the following is the best next step in the management of this patient condition?

Answer: Intravenous esmolol


Context:
A 22-year-old man comes to the physician because of several episodes of painless bloody urine over the past 6 months. The episodes are not related to physical activity. He has had frequent nosebleeds since early childhood and an episode of heavy bleeding after a tooth extraction one year ago. He smokes one pack of cigarettes daily. He drinks 1 to 2 beers on social occasions. He appears pale. His vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination shows several small hematomas in different stages of healing over his arms and legs. Examination of the extremities shows decreased passive range of motion with crepitus in both ankles. His abdomen is soft and nontender. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 9.5 mg/dL
Leukocyte count 5000/mm3
Platelet count 240,000/mm3
Bleeding time 5 minutes
Prothrombin time 14 seconds
Partial thromboplastin time 68 seconds
Urine
RBC 30–40/hpf
RBC casts negative
WBC none
Protein negative
An x-ray of the pelvis shows no abnormalities. Further evaluation of this patient is most likely to show which of the following findings?"

Question: Further evaluation of this patient is most likely to show which of the following findings?"

Answer: Intraarticular iron deposition


Context: A 45-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 3-week history of progressive diarrhea and a 2.2-kg (5-lb) weight loss. During the past week, he has had six small bloody stools daily. He is employed as a sales manager and regularly flies to South America. He has HIV, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and hypertension. Current medications include chlorthalidone, omeprazole, emtricitabine, tenofovir, and efavirenz. He reports taking efavirenz irregularly. He is 175 cm (5 ft 9 in) tall and weighs 64 kg (143 lb); BMI is 22 kg/m2. His temperature is 38.1°C (100.6°F), pulse is 91/min, and blood pressure is 116/69 mm Hg. The abdomen is scaphoid. Bowel sounds are normal. His CD4+ T-lymphocyte count is 44/mm3 (N ≥ 500), leukocyte count is 6,000/mm3, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate is 12 mm/h. Colonoscopy shows areas of inflammation scattered throughout the colon with friability, granularity, and shallow linear ulcerations. The intervening mucosa between areas of inflammation appears normal. A biopsy specimen is shown. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

Answer: Cytomegalovirus


Context: A 43-year-old female presents to her primary care physician complaining of a gradually enlarging neck mass. She reports that she first developed a firm nodular midline mass on the anterior aspect of her neck two months ago. She is otherwise healthy and takes no medications. A fine-needle aspiration is performed and a histological sample of the specimen is shown. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Papillary thyroid carcinoma


Context: A 25-year-old G1P0 female of Middle Eastern descent gives birth to a male infant at 38 weeks’ gestation. The child is in the 15th percentile for both height and weight. Over the course of the first six months of the child’s life, he develops multiple severe skin and mucosal infections characterized by dramatically elevated white blood cell counts. The patient also demonstrates mental retardation soon after birth. A thorough hematologic analysis via flow cytometry reveals that the child's neutrophils that lack Sialyl-Lewis X. Which of the following processes is likely deficient in this patient?

Question: Which of the following processes is likely deficient in this patient?

Answer: Rolling


Context: A 15-year-old girl is brought to the physician by her mother for a 2-day history of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Her last menstrual period was 3 weeks ago. Her temperature is 37.6°C (99.7°F). Abdominal examination shows tenderness to palpation with guarding in the right lower quadrant. Laboratory studies show a leukocyte count of 12,600/mm3. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: Lymphatic tissue hyperplasia


Context:
A 55-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a headache, blurry vision, and abdominal pain. He states that his symptoms started several hours ago and have been gradually worsening. His temperature is 99.3°F (37.4°C), blood pressure is 222/128 mmHg, pulse is 87/min, respirations are 16/min, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. Physical exam is notable for an uncomfortable and distressed man. The patient is started on an esmolol and a nitroprusside drip thus lowering his blood pressure to 200/118 mmHg. The patient states that he feels better, but complains of feeling warm and flushed. An hour later, the patient seems confused and states his headache has resurfaced. Laboratory values are ordered as seen below.

Serum:
Na+: 138 mEq/L
Cl-: 101 mEq/L
K+: 4.4 mEq/L
HCO3-: 17 mEq/L
BUN: 31 mg/dL
Glucose: 199 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.4 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.2 mg/dL

Which of the following is the best treatment for this patient?

Question:
Serum:
Na+: 138 mEq/L
Cl-: 101 mEq/L
K+: 4.4 mEq/L
HCO3-: 17 mEq/L
BUN: 31 mg/dL
Glucose: 199 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.4 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.2 mg/dL

Which of the following is the best treatment for this patient?

Answer: Hydroxocobalamin


Context: An 18-year-old man presents to his primary care physician with a complaint of excessive daytime sleepiness. He denies any substance abuse or major changes in his sleep schedule. He reports frequently dozing off during his regular daily activities. On further review of systems, he endorses falling asleep frequently with the uncomfortable sensation that there is someone in the room, even though he is alone. He also describes that from time to time, he has transient episodes of slurred speech when experiencing heartfelt laughter. Vital signs are stable, and his physical exam is unremarkable. This patient is likely deficient in a neurotransmitter produced in which part of the brain?

Question: This patient is likely deficient in a neurotransmitter produced in which part of the brain?

Answer: Hypothalamus


Context: A 35-year-old man presents to the primary care office with a recent history of frequent falls. He had been able to walk normally until about a year ago when he started noticing that both of his legs felt weak. He's also had some trouble with feeling in his feet. These 2 problems have caused multiple falls over the last year. On physical exam, he has notable leg and foot muscular atrophy and 4/5 strength throughout his bilateral lower extremities. Sensation to light touch and pinprick is absent up to the mid-calf. Ankle jerk reflex is absent bilaterally. A photo of the patient's foot is shown. Which of the following best describes the etiology of this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following best describes the etiology of this patient's condition?

Answer: Genetic


Context: A 60-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 1-hour history of disorientation and slurred speech. He has a 10-year history of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. His blood pressure is 210/110 mm Hg, and pulse is 90/min. Once the patient is stabilized, an MRI of the brain is performed, which shows an infarct of the left precentral gyrus involving the region that supplies the facial nerve. Given the MRI findings, which of the following neurological findings would most be expected?

Question: Given the MRI findings, which of the following neurological findings would most be expected?

Answer: Flattening of the right nasolabial fold


Context:
A 5-year-old boy presents to the pediatrician for a well child visit. He is meeting his developmental milestones and is in the 15th percentile for height and 70th percentile for weight. His parents report that he complains of fatiguing easily and having trouble participating in sports. They are concerned he is not getting enough sleep and state that sometimes they hear him snore. The patient has a past medical history of a supracondylar fracture of the humerus, which was appropriately treated. He is doing well in school but is sometimes bullied for being small. The patient eats a balanced diet of milk, fruit, and some vegetables. His parents have been trying to get him to drink more milk so he can grow taller. His temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), blood pressure is 90/48 mmHg, pulse is 100/min, respirations are 19/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. On physical exam, the patient appears well. HEENT exam is notable for conjunctival pallor and a unilateral clear middle ear effusion. Cardiac exam reveals a benign flow murmur. Pulmonary exam is clear to auscultation bilaterally. The patient's gait is stable and he is able to jump up and down. A full set of labs are ordered as requested by the parents including a serum vitamin D level, B12 level, and IGF level. A selection of these lab values are seen below.

Serum:
Na+: 139 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 4.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 25 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 99 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.1 mg/dL
Ca2+: 9.9 mg/dL
AST: 12 U/L
ALT: 10 U/L

Which of the following would you expect to find in this patient?

Question:
Serum:
Na+: 139 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 4.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 25 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 99 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.1 mg/dL
Ca2+: 9.9 mg/dL
AST: 12 U/L
ALT: 10 U/L

Which of the following would you expect to find in this patient?

Answer: Increased RDW and TIBC


Context: A 27-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a knife wound to his back. His pulse is 110/min, respirations are 14/min, and blood pressure is 125/78 mm Hg. Examination shows a 5-cm deep stab wound at the level of T9. He withdraws the right foot to pain but is unable to sense vibration or whether his right toe is flexed or extended. Sensation in the left leg is normal. Motor strength is 5/5 in all extremities. Rectal tone is normal. Which of the following spinal column structures was most likely affected?

Question: Which of the following spinal column structures was most likely affected?

Answer: Posterior spinal artery


Context: A 12-year-old girl is brought to the physician because of a 2-hour history of severe epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting. Her father has a history of similar episodes of abdominal pain and developed diabetes mellitus at the age of 30 years. Abdominal examination shows guarding and rigidity. Ultrasonography of the abdomen shows diffuse enlargement of the pancreas; no gallstones are visualized. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: Premature activation of trypsinogen


Context: A 24-year-old man is brought to your emergency department under arrest by the local police. The patient was found naked at a busy intersection jumping up and down on top of a car. Interviewing the patient, you discover that he has not slept in 2 days because he does not feel tired. He reports hearing voices. The patient was previously hospitalized 1 year ago with auditory hallucinations, paranoia, and a normal mood. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Schizoaffective disorder


Context: A 2-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department with an enlarged left knee. The patient’s parents state that his knee began to swell up a few hours ago while the family was indoors, watching TV. This has never happened before. The boy says his knee hurts when he puts weight on it. Past medical history is unremarkable. He was born at 39 weeks gestation via spontaneous vaginal delivery. He is up to date on all vaccines and is meeting all developmental milestones. Today, his vitals are normal for his age group with a blood pressure of 104/60 mm Hg, heart rate 90/min, respiratory rate 25/min, and temperature 37.1°C (98.8°F). On physical exam the child's left knee is indurated, erythematous, and painful to palpation. An ultrasound of the knee is consistent with hemarthrosis. A hematology workup is completed and the appropriate treatment was administered. Which of the following was the most likely treatment administered to this patient?

Question: Which of the following was the most likely treatment administered to this patient?

Answer: Desmopressin


Context: A 69-year-old man is brought in by his wife with acute onset aphasia for the past 5 hours. The patient’s wife says that they were sitting having dinner when suddenly he was not able to speak. They delayed coming to the hospital because he had a similar episode 2 months ago which resolved within an hour. His past medical history is significant for hypercholesterolemia, managed with rosuvastatin, and a myocardial infarction (MI) 2 months ago, status post percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty complicated by residual angina. His family history is significant for his father who died of MI at age 60. The patient reports a 15-pack-year smoking history but denies any alcohol or recreational drug use. The vital signs include: temperature 37.0℃ (98.6℉), blood pressure 125/85 mm Hg, pulse 96/min, and respiratory rate 19/min. On physical examination, the patient has productive aphasia. There is a weakness of the right-sided lower facial muscles. The strength in his upper and lower extremities is 4/5 on the right and 5/5 on the left. There is also a decreased sensation on his right side. A noncontrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the head is unremarkable. CT angiography (CTA) and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are acquired, and the findings are shown in the exhibit (see image). Which of the following is the best course of treatment in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the best course of treatment in this patient?

Answer: Mechanical thrombectomy


Context: A 23-year-old woman presents with a painful lesion in her mouth. She denies tooth pain, bleeding from the gums, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or previous episodes similar to this in the past. She states that her last normal menstrual period was 12 days ago, and she has not been sexually active since starting medical school 2 years ago. On physical examination, the patient has good dentition with no signs of infection with the exception of a solitary ulcerated lesion on the oral mucosa. The nonvesicular lesion has a clean gray-white base and is surrounded by erythema. Which of the following is correct concerning the most likely etiology of the oral lesion in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is correct concerning the most likely etiology of the oral lesion in this patient?

Answer: This lesion is non-contagious but will most likely recur.


Context: A 29-year-old woman, gravida 1, para 1, comes to the physician for the evaluation of a painful mass in her left breast for several days. She has no fevers or chills. She has not noticed any changes in the right breast. She has no history of serious illness. Her last menstrual period was 3 weeks ago. She appears anxious. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 80/min, respirations are 13/min, and blood pressure is 130/75 mm Hg. Examination shows a palpable, mobile, tender mass in the left upper quadrant of the breast. Ultrasound shows a 1.75-cm, well-circumscribed anechoic mass with posterior acoustic enhancement. The patient says that she is very concerned that she may have breast cancer and wishes further diagnostic testing. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

Answer: Fine needle aspiration


Context: A 15-month-old girl is brought to the pediatrician by her mother with a history of 3 episodes of breath-holding spells. The patient’s mother says that this is a new behavior and she is concerned. The patient was born at full term by spontaneous vaginal delivery with an uneventful perinatal period. She is also up to date on her vaccines. However, after the age of 6 months, the patient’s mother noticed that she was not as playful as other children of similar age. She is also not interested in interacting with others and her eye contact is poor. Her growth charts suggest that her weight, length, and head circumference were normal at birth, but there have been noticeable decelerations in weight and head circumference. On physical examination, her vital signs are normal. A neurologic examination reveals the presence of generalized mild hypotonia. She also makes repetitive hand wringing motions. Which of the following clinical features is most likely to develop in this patient during the next few years?

Question: Which of the following clinical features is most likely to develop in this patient during the next few years?

Answer: Loss of purposeful use of her hands


Context: A 43-year-old woman presents to the physician with the complaint of worsening fatigue over the past several months. She has found that she requires nearly double the amount of coffee consumption each day to stay awake at work and that despite maintaining a balanced, healthy diet, she has experienced significant weight gain. A blood test confirms the presence of anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Which of the following additional findings would be consistent with her condition?

Question: Which of the following additional findings would be consistent with her condition?

Answer: Galactorrhea


Context: A 65-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 3-month history of progressive shortness of breath and a dry cough. She has also noticed gradual development of facial discoloration. She has coronary artery disease, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation. She does not remember which medications she takes. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 90/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 150/85 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 95%. Examination shows blue-gray discoloration of the face and both hands. Diffuse inspiratory crackles are heard. An x-ray of the chest shows reticular opacities around the lung periphery and particularly around the lung bases. The most likely cause of this patient's findings is an adverse effect to which of the following medications?

Question: The most likely cause of this patient's findings is an adverse effect to which of the following medications?

Answer: Amiodarone


Context: A 12-month-old boy is brought to the physician by his mother for a well-child examination. He was delivered at term after an uncomplicated pregnancy. His mother says he is breastfeeding well. He is at the 50th percentile for height and 65th percentile for weight. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Urinalysis shows 3+ reducing substances. Compared to a healthy infant, giving this patient apple juice to drink will result in increased activity of which of the following enzymes?

Question: Compared to a healthy infant, giving this patient apple juice to drink will result in increased activity of which of the following enzymes?

Answer: Hexokinase


Context: A 15-year-old girl presents with menorrhagia for the last 4 months. The patient’s mother says that she just started getting her period 4 months ago, which have been heavy and prolonged. The patient does recall getting a tooth extracted 3 years ago that was complicated by persistent bleeding afterward. She has no other significant past medical history and takes no current medications. Her vital signs include: blood pressure 118/76 mm Hg, respirations 17/min, pulse 64/min, temperature 36.7°C (98.0°F). Physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following laboratory tests is most likely to be of the greatest diagnostic value in the workup of this patient?

Question: Which of the following laboratory tests is most likely to be of the greatest diagnostic value in the workup of this patient?

Answer: Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)


Context: A 57-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 2-month history of worsening shortness of breath with walking. He has not had any cough, fevers, or recent weight loss. He has hypercholesterolemia, for which he takes simvastatin, but otherwise is healthy. For 35 years he has worked for a demolition company. He has smoked 1 pack of cigarettes daily for the past 33 years. Pulmonary examination shows fine bibasilar end-expiratory crackles. An x-ray of the chest shows diffuse bilateral infiltrates predominantly in the lower lobes and bilateral calcified pleural plaques. The patient is most likely to develop which of the following conditions?

Question: The patient is most likely to develop which of the following conditions?

Answer:
Bronchogenic carcinoma
"


Context: A 26-year-old woman comes to the physician because of painful paresthesias in her foot. Examination shows decreased sensation in the first interdigital space and a hallux valgus deformity. This patient's paresthesias are most likely caused by compression of which of the following nerves?

Question: This patient's paresthesias are most likely caused by compression of which of the following nerves?

Answer: Deep peroneal nerve


Context: A 34-year-old male is brought to the emergency department by paramedics after being found down on the sidewalk. The paramedics are unable to provide any further history and the patient in unresponsive. On exam, the patient's vitals are: T: 36 deg C, HR: 65 bpm, BP: 100/66, RR: 4, SaO2: 96%. The emergency physician also observes the findings demonstrated in figures A and B. This patient most likely overdosed on which of the following?

Question: This patient most likely overdosed on which of the following?

Answer: Heroin


Context: A retrospective study was conducted in a US county in order to determine the frequency of hypodontia (tooth agenesis), the most common craniofacial malformation in humans, as well as to assess the need for an interdisciplinary approach to managing subsequent functional and esthetic sequelae in a target population. Using a dental administration computer software tool, a total of 1498 patients who visited the outpatient clinic of a large specialist dental center between April 2017 and February 2018 were identified. The group comprised 766 women and 732 men. Hypodontia was found in 6.3% of the patients, a rate that was consistent with the average values found in the published medical literature. Which measure of frequency was used to describe the percentage of patients affected by hypodontia in this example?

Question: Which measure of frequency was used to describe the percentage of patients affected by hypodontia in this example?

Answer: Period prevalence


Context: A child is brought into the emergency room by her mother. Her mother states that the 7-year-old child was playing with their dog, who is up to date on his vaccinations. When the dog started playing more aggressively, the child suffered a bite on the hand with two puncture wounds from the dog's canines. The child is up-to-date on her vaccinations and has no medical history. Her vitals are within normal limits. If this bite becomes infected, what is the most likely organism to be the cause of infection?

Question: If this bite becomes infected, what is the most likely organism to be the cause of infection?

Answer: Pasteurella multocida


Context:
A previously healthy 4-year-old boy is brought to the physician because of a 2-day history of fever and swelling of the neck. His mother says that he has been increasingly weak over the past month. He takes no medications. His vaccination history is complete. His temperature is 39.5°C (103.1°F), blood pressure is 115/70 mm Hg, pulse is 94/min, and respiratory rate is 16/min. Palpation reveals bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy. There are several petechiae on the distal lower extremities and on the soft palate. The spleen is palpable 3 cm below the costal margin. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8 g/dL
Leukocyte 2400/mm3
Platelet 30,000/mm3
A peripheral blood smear is shown. Which of the following best explains these findings?

Question: Which of the following best explains these findings?

Answer: Acute lymphoid leukemia


Context: A 4-month-old male infant is brought to the physician by his father because of swelling of his left hemiscrotum. He has otherwise been healthy and is gaining weight appropriately. Physical examination shows a nontender left scrotal mass that transilluminates. The mass increases in size when the boy cries but is easily reducible. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's findings?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's findings?

Answer: Patent processus vaginalis


Context: A 19-year-old woman presents to the family medical center with a 2-week history of a sore throat. She says that she has felt increasingly tired during the day and has a difficult time staying awake during her classes at the university. She appears well-nourished with a low energy level. Her vital signs include the following: the heart rate is 82/min, the respiratory rate is 14/min, the temperature is 37.8°C (100.0°F), and the blood pressure is 112/82 mm Hg. Inspection of the pharynx is depicted in the picture. Palpation of the neck reveals posterior cervical lymphadenopathy. The membrane does not bleed upon scraping. What is the most specific finding for detecting the syndrome described in the vignette?

Question: What is the most specific finding for detecting the syndrome described in the vignette?

Answer: Positive monospot test


Context: A 64-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 2-hour history of nausea, vomiting, and retrosternal pain that radiates to the back. Abdominal examination shows tenderness to palpation in the epigastric area. A CT scan of the patient's chest is shown. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Esophageal rupture


Context: A 45-year-old woman comes to the emergency department because of abdominal cramping, vomiting, and watery diarrhea for the past 4 hours. One day ago, she went to a seafood restaurant with her family to celebrate her birthday. Three of the attendees have developed similar symptoms. The patient appears lethargic. Her temperature is 38.8°C (101.8°F). Which of the following organisms is most likely responsible for this patient's current symptoms?

Question: Which of the following organisms is most likely responsible for this patient's current symptoms?

Answer: Vibrio parahaemolyticus


Context: A 25-year-old woman comes to the physician because of recurrent episodes of reddish discoloration of her urine. She also has a 3-month history of intermittent abdominal pain, yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes, and fatigue. Physical examination shows pallor and scleral icterus. The spleen is not palpable. Her hemoglobin concentration is 7.8 g/dL, leukocyte count is 2,000/mm3, and platelet count is 80,000/mm3. Serum LDH and unconjugated bilirubin concentrations are elevated. Addition of a serum containing anti-human globulins to a blood sample shows no agglutination. A urine dipstick shows blood; urinalysis shows no RBCs. A CT scan of the abdomen shows a thrombus in a distal branch of the superior mesenteric vein. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: Absence of protective factors against destruction by complement


Context: A 47-year-old male presents to the emergency department with facial swelling and trouble breathing. These symptoms began this morning and progressively worsened over the past several hours. Vital signs are as follows: T 37.7, HR 108, BP 120/76, RR 20, and SpO2 96%. Physical examination reveals nonpitting swelling of the face, hands, and arms as well as edema of the tongue and mucus membranes of the mouth and pharynx. The patient reports several episodes of mild facial swelling that occurred during childhood between the ages of 5-18, but he does not recall seeing a physician or receiving treatment for this. His medical history is otherwise negative, except for mild hypertension for which his primary care physician initiated lisinopril 2 weeks ago. This patient most likely has which of the following underlying abnormalities?

Question: This patient most likely has which of the following underlying abnormalities?

Answer: Deficiency of C1 esterase inhibitor


Context: A 23-year-old man comes to the emergency department with palpitations, sweating, and shortness of breath that began 10 minutes ago. He says, “Please help me, I don't want to die.” He has experienced several similar episodes over the past 2 months, which occurred without warning in situations including open spaces or crowds and resolved gradually after 5 to 10 minutes. He has been staying at home as much as possible out of fear of triggering another episode. He has no history of serious illness and takes no medications. He drinks 3 bottles of beer daily. He appears anxious and has a flushed face. His pulse is 104/min, respirations are 12/min, and blood pressure is 135/82 mm Hg. Cardiopulmonary examination shows no abnormalities. An ECG shows sinus tachycardia. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in management?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in management?

Answer: Oral alprazolam


Context: A 22-year-old man presents to a physician with a single painless ulcer on his glans penis that he first noticed 2 weeks ago. He mentions that he is sexually active with multiple partners. There is no history of fevers. Initially, he thought that the ulcer would go away on its own, but decided to come to the clinic because the ulcer persisted. On palpation of the ulcer, the edge and base are indurated. There is no purulence. Multiple painless, firm, and non-fixed lymph nodes are present in the inguinal regions bilaterally. The physician orders a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test, which is positive. The Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay is also positive. Upon discussing the diagnosis, the patient informs the physician that he has a severe allergy to penicillin and he declines treatment with an injectable medicine. Which of the following drugs is most appropriate for this patient?

Question: Which of the following drugs is most appropriate for this patient?

Answer: Azithromycin


Context: A 5-year-old girl with an aortic stenosis correction comes to the office for a follow-up visit for acute lymphoblastic lymphoma. She initiated chemotherapy a week before through a peripherally inserted central line. She reports being ‘tired all the time’ and has been bruising easily. Her vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination shows several tenders, non-blanching petechiae on the pads of the fingers and toes; several dark, non-tender petechiae on her palms and soles; and small, linear hemorrhages under her fingernails. Fundoscopic examination shows various small areas of hemorrhage on the retinae bilaterally. Cardiac examination is notable for a II/VI systolic ejection murmur that seems to have worsened in comparison to the last visit. Which of the following is the most likely cause?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely cause?

Answer: Infective endocarditis


Context: A 40-year-old pregnant woman, G4 P3, visits your office at week 30 of gestation. She is very excited about her pregnancy and wants to be the healthiest she can be in preparation for labor and for her baby. What vaccination should she receive at this visit?

Question: What vaccination should she receive at this visit?

Answer: Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)


Context: A 62-year-old Caucasian male presents to your office with hemoptysis and hematuria. On physical exam you note a saddle nose deformity. Laboratory results show an elevated level of cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for this patient?

Question: Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for this patient?

Answer: Corticosteroids


Context: A 54-year-old man is brought to the emergency department 1 hour after the sudden onset of shortness of breath, severe chest pain, and sweating. He has hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. He has smoked one pack and a half of cigarettes daily for 20 years. An ECG shows ST-segment elevations in leads II, III, and avF. The next hospital with a cardiac catheterization unit is more than 2 hours away. Reperfusion pharmacotherapy is initiated. Which of the following is the primary mechanism of action of this medication?

Question: Which of the following is the primary mechanism of action of this medication?

Answer: Conversion of plasminogen to plasmin


Context: A 70-year-old man presents to the outpatient clinic for a routine health checkup. He recently lost his hearing completely in both ears and has occasional flare-ups of osteoarthritis in his hands and hips. He is a non-diabetic and hypertensive for the past 25 years. His brother recently died due to prostate cancer. His current blood pressure is 126/84 mm Hg. His cholesterol and PSA levels are within normal limits. The flexible sigmoidoscopy along with stool guaiac test is negative. The serum calcium, phosphorus concentrations and liver function test results are within normal limits. However, the ALP levels are increased by more than thrice the upper limit. Radiography of the axial skeleton reveals cortical thickening. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Paget's disease of the bone


Context: A 35-year-old man is brought to the emergency room after suffering a catastrophic fall while skiing during a training session. He was found unconscious by the aeromedical emergency services team, who established an airway and cervical spine control measures. Upon arrival at the emergency department, ventilatory support is started followed by an evaluation of the patient by the neurosurgical team. His blood pressure is 210/125 mm Hg, the heart rate is 55/min, and the respiratory rate is 15/min with a Cheyne-Stokes breathing pattern. Neurological examination shows a Glasgow Coma Score of 4/15, with dilated, fixed pupils and a decerebrate posture. An MRI of the brain shows diffuse axonal injury to the brain with severe cerebral edema, multiple frontal and occipital lobe contusions and multiple flame-shaped hemorrhages in the brainstem. Despite the medical team efforts, the patient dies 24 hours later. What would be the most likely type of herniation found at this patient’s autopsy?

Question: What would be the most likely type of herniation found at this patient’s autopsy?

Answer: Central herniation


Context: An 11-year-old boy with Burkitt lymphoma is brought to the emergency department because of nausea, vomiting, flank pain, and dark urine for 1 day. Two days ago, he began induction chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisolone, and doxorubicin. Urinalysis shows 3+ blood and abundant amber-colored, rhomboid crystals. Which of the following is most likely to have been effective in preventing this patient’s symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is most likely to have been effective in preventing this patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Alkalinization of the urine


Context: A 42-year-old male with a history significant for IV drug use comes to the emergency department complaining of persistent fatigue and malaise for the past three weeks. On physical exam, you observe a lethargic male with icteric sclera and hepatomegaly. AST and ALT are elevated at 600 and 750, respectively. HCV RNA is positive. Albumin is 3.8 g/dL and PT is 12. A liver biopsy shows significant inflammation with bridging fibrosis. What is the most appropriate treatment at this time?

Question: What is the most appropriate treatment at this time?

Answer: Combined interferon and ribavirin


Context: A 41-year-old woman comes to the doctor because of gradually progressive weakness in her right hand over the past few weeks. She goes to the gym to lift weights 5 times a week. With the dorsum of the right hand on a flat surface, the patient is unable to move her thumb to touch a pen held 2 cm above the interphalangeal joint of the thumb. An MRI of the right arm shows compression of a nerve that passes through the pronator teres muscle. Based on the examination findings, loss of innervation of which of the following muscles is most likely in this patient?

Question: Based on the examination findings, loss of innervation of which of the following muscles is most likely in this patient?

Answer: Abductor pollicis brevis


Context: A 24-year-old woman presents to the emergency department because she started experiencing dyspnea and urticaria after dinner. Her symptoms began approximately 15 minutes after eating a new type of shellfish that she has never had before. On physical exam her breathing is labored, and pulmonary auscultation reveals wheezing bilaterally. Given this presentation, she is immediately started on intramuscular epinephrine for treatment of her symptoms. If part of this patient's symptoms were related to the systemic release of certain complement components, which of the following is another function of the responsible component?

Question: If part of this patient's symptoms were related to the systemic release of certain complement components, which of the following is another function of the responsible component?

Answer: Chemotaxis


Context:
A previously healthy 8-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his mother because of 6 months of progressive fatigue and weight loss. His mother reports that during this time, he has had decreased energy and has become a “picky eater.” He often has loose stools and complains of occasional abdominal pain and nausea. His family moved to a different house 7 months ago. He is at the 50th percentile for height and 25th percentile for weight. His temperature is 36.7°C (98°F), pulse is 116/min, and blood pressure is 85/46 mm Hg. Physical examination shows tanned skin and bluish-black gums. The abdomen is soft, nondistended, and nontender. Serum studies show:
Na+ 134 mEq/L
K+ 5.4 mEq/L
Cl- 104 mEq/L
Bicarbonate 21 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen 16 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL
Glucose 70 mg/dL
Intravenous fluid resuscitation is begun. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in treatment?"

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in treatment?"

Answer: Glucocorticoids


Context: A 10-year-old girl presents to your office with a fever and rash. Her mother first noticed the rash 2 days ago after a camping trip. The rash began on her wrists and ankles and has now spread to her palms and the soles of her feet. This morning, she was feeling unwell and complaining of a headache. She had a fever of 102°F (39°C) prompting her mother to bring her to your office. She is otherwise healthy and does not take any medications. Her medical history is significant for a broken arm at age 8. On physical exam her blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg, pulse is 110/min, and respirations are 22/min. You notice a petechial rash on the palms, soles, ankles, and wrists. Which of the following findings would confirm the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

Question: Which of the following findings would confirm the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

Answer: Cross-reactivity of serum with proteus antigens


Context: A 54-year-old man suffered an anterior wall myocardial infarction that was managed in the cath lab with emergent coronary stenting and revascularization. The patient states that his wife, adult children, and cousins may be disclosed information regarding his care and health information. The patient has been progressing well without any further complications since his initial catheterization. On hospital day #3, a woman stops you in the hall outside of the patient's room whom you recognize as the patient's cousin. She asks you about the patient's prognosis and how the patient is progressing after his heart attack. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Answer: Discuss the patient's hospital course and expected prognosis with the woman


Context:
An otherwise healthy 28-year-old primigravid woman at 30 weeks' gestation comes to the physician with a 5-day history of epigastric pain and nausea that is worse at night. Two years ago, she was diagnosed with a peptic ulcer and was treated with a proton pump inhibitor and antibiotics. Medications include folic acid and a multivitamin. Her pulse is 90/min and blood pressure is 130/85 mm Hg. Pelvic examination shows a uterus consistent in size with a 30-week gestation. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL
Platelet count 95,000/mm3
Serum
Total bilirubin 1.5 mg/dL
Aspartate aminotransferase 80 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase 705 U/L
Urine
pH 6.2
Protein 2+
WBC negative
Bacteria occasional
Nitrates negative
Which of the following best explains this patient's symptoms?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL
Platelet count 95,000/mm3
Serum
Total bilirubin 1.5 mg/dL
Aspartate aminotransferase 80 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase 705 U/L
Urine
pH 6.2
Protein 2+
WBC negative
Bacteria occasional
Nitrates negative
Which of the following best explains this patient's symptoms?"

Answer: Stretching of Glisson capsule


Context:
A 54-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of progressive tingling and weakness in both of his legs for the past two days. The patient reports that his symptoms interfere with his ability to walk. Two weeks ago, he had an upper respiratory tract infection, which resolved spontaneously. His vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows weakness in the lower extremities with absent deep tendon reflexes. Reflexes are 1+ in the upper extremities. Sensation to pinprick and light touch is intact. Romberg's test is negative. Laboratory studies show a leukocyte count of 12,000/mm3. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis results show:
Opening pressure normal
Protein 200 mg/dL
Glucose 70 mg/dL
White blood cells 4/mm3
This patient is at increased risk for which of the following conditions?"

Question:
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis results show:
Opening pressure normal
Protein 200 mg/dL
Glucose 70 mg/dL
White blood cells 4/mm3
This patient is at increased risk for which of the following conditions?"

Answer: Respiratory failure


Context: A 44-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 3-week history of productive cough, fever, and lethargy. He also has several skin lesions over his body. His symptoms began 3 weeks after he returned from a camping trip in Kentucky. Three years ago, he underwent kidney transplantation for polycystic kidney disease. Current medications include sirolimus and prednisone. His temperature is 38°C (100.4°F). Diffuse crackles are heard over the lung fields. There are 4 white, verrucous skin patches over his chest and upper limbs. A photomicrograph of a skin biopsy specimen from one of the lesions is shown. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Blastomycosis


Context:
A 47-year-old woman presents for a routine wellness checkup. She complains of general fatigue and lethargy for the past 6 months. She does not have a significant past medical history and is currently not taking any medications. The patient reports that she drinks “socially” approx. 6 nights a week. She says she also enjoys a “nightcap,” which is 1–2 glasses of wine before bed every night. She denies any history of drug use or smoking. The patient is afebrile, and her vital signs are within normal limits. A physical examination reveals pallor of the mucous membranes. Her laboratory findings are significant for a mean corpuscular volume of 72 fL, leukocyte count of 5,300/mL, hemoglobin of 11.0 g/dL, and platelet count of 420,000/mL.
Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient’s thrombocytosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient’s thrombocytosis?

Answer: Iron deficiency anemia


Context: A 39-year-old male is rushed to the emergency department after he developed a sudden-onset severe headache with ensuing nausea, vomiting, vision changes, and loss of consciousness. Past medical history is unattainable. He reports that the headache is worse than any he has experienced before. Noncontrast CT of the head is significant for an intracranial hemorrhage. Follow-up cerebral angiography is performed and shows a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm. Which of the following has the strongest association with this patient's current presentation?

Question: Which of the following has the strongest association with this patient's current presentation?

Answer: Kidney ultrasound showing numerous bilateral renal cysts


Context:
A 15-year-old girl comes to the physician for a well-child examination. She feels well. Her father has coronary artery disease and hypertension. Her mother has type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and had a myocardial infarction at the age of 52 years. She is at the 25th percentile for height and above the 95th percentile for weight. Her BMI is 32 kg/m2. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 99/min, and blood pressure is 140/88 mm Hg. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Random serum studies show:
Glucose 160 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Total cholesterol 212 mg/dL
HDL-cholesterol 32 mg/dL
LDL-cholesterol 134 mg/dL
Triglycerides 230 mg/dL
In addition to regular aerobic physical activity, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?"

Question:
Random serum studies show:
Glucose 160 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Total cholesterol 212 mg/dL
HDL-cholesterol 32 mg/dL
LDL-cholesterol 134 mg/dL
Triglycerides 230 mg/dL
In addition to regular aerobic physical activity, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?"

Answer: Reduced-calorie diet


Context:
A 55-year-old woman who is an established patient presents to your office. She is complaining of increased urination and increased thirst. She has recently began taking several over-the-counter vitamins and supplements. On further review, she reports she has also been having abdominal pain and constipation. She denies significant weight changes. Her fingerstick blood glucose in your office is 96 mg/dL.

Which of the following test is most likely to provide the diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following test is most likely to provide the diagnosis?

Answer: Calcium level


Context: A 9-year-old boy is brought to his primary care physician after his mom noticed that he was limping. He says that he has been experiencing significant hip and knee pain over the last 2 months but thought he may have just strained a muscle. Radiographs show a collapse of the femoral head, and he is diagnosed with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. He undergoes surgery and is placed in a Petrie cast from his hips to his toes bilaterally so that he is unable to move his knees or ankles. Eight weeks later, the cast is removed, and he is found to have significantly smaller calves than before the cast was placed. Which process in myocytes is most likely responsible for this finding?

Question: Which process in myocytes is most likely responsible for this finding?

Answer: Polyubiquitination of proteins


Context: A 36-year-old African American G1P0010 presents to her gynecologist for an annual visit. She has a medical history of hypertension, for which she takes hydrochlorothiazide. The patient’s mother had breast cancer at age 68, and her sister has endometriosis. At this visit, the patient’s temperature is 98.6°F (37.0°C), blood pressure is 138/74 mmHg, pulse is 80/min, and respirations are 13/min. Her BMI is 32.4 kg/m^2. Pelvic exam reveals a nontender, 16-week sized uterus with an irregular contour. A transvaginal ultrasound is performed and demonstrates a submucosal leiomyoma. This patient is at most increased risk of which of the following complications?

Question: This patient is at most increased risk of which of the following complications?

Answer: Iron deficiency anemia


Context: A 56-year-old previously healthy woman with no other past medical history is post-operative day one from an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured right radius and ulna after a motor vehicle accident. What is one of the primary ways of preventing postoperative pneumonia in this patient?

Question: What is one of the primary ways of preventing postoperative pneumonia in this patient?

Answer: Incentive spirometry


Context:
A 28-year-old gravida-2-para-1 at 12 weeks gestation presents for a prenatal visit. Over the past week, she has felt increasingly tired, even after waking up in the morning. She is vegan and avoids all animal products. She was diagnosed with Graves’ disease 6 months ago. Before conception, methimazole was switched to propylthiouracil (PTU). Other medications include folic acid and a multivitamin. The vital signs include: temperature 37.1℃ (98.8℉), pulse 72/min, respiratory rate 12/min, and blood pressure 110/75 mm Hg. The conjunctivae and nail beds are pale. Petechiae are present over the distal lower extremities. The pelvic examination reveals a uterus consistent in size with a 12-week gestation. Examination of the neck, lungs, heart, and abdomen shows no abnormalities. The laboratory studies show the following:
Laboratory test
Hemoglobin 9.0 g/dL
Mean corpuscular volume 90 μm3
Leukocyte count 4,000/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 55%
Lymphocytes 40%
Platelet count 110,000/mm3
Serum
Thyroid-stimulating hormone 0.1 μU/mL
Thyroxine (T-4) 8 μg/dL
Lactate dehydrogenase 60 U/L
Total bilirubin 0.5 mg/dL
Iron 100 μg/dL
Ferritin 110 ng/mL
Total iron-binding capacity 250 μg/dL
Which of the following best explains these findings?

Question:
The laboratory studies show the following:
Laboratory test
Hemoglobin 9.0 g/dL
Mean corpuscular volume 90 μm3
Leukocyte count 4,000/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 55%
Lymphocytes 40%
Platelet count 110,000/mm3
Serum
Thyroid-stimulating hormone 0.1 μU/mL
Thyroxine (T-4) 8 μg/dL
Lactate dehydrogenase 60 U/L
Total bilirubin 0.5 mg/dL
Iron 100 μg/dL
Ferritin 110 ng/mL
Total iron-binding capacity 250 μg/dL
Which of the following best explains these findings?

Answer: Drug-induced marrow failure


Context:
A 29-year-old man comes to the physician for a routine health maintenance examination. He has no history of serious illness. His mother has hypertension and his father died of testicular cancer at the age of 51 years. He does not smoke or drink. He is sexually active and uses condoms consistently. He takes no medications. His immunization records are unavailable. He works as a financial consultant and will go on a business trip to Mexico City in 2 weeks. His temperature is 36.7°C (98.7° F), pulse is 78/min, and blood pressure is 122/78 mm Hg. Cardiopulmonary examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 13.4 g/dL
Leukocyte count 9800/mm3
Platelet count 168,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 113 mg/dL
Creatinine 1.1 mg/dL
Which of the following recommendations is most appropriate at this time?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 13.4 g/dL
Leukocyte count 9800/mm3
Platelet count 168,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 113 mg/dL
Creatinine 1.1 mg/dL
Which of the following recommendations is most appropriate at this time?"

Answer: Hepatitis A vaccine


Context:
A 39-year-old woman seeks evaluation from her gynecologist due to recent changes in her menstrual cycle. Her last menstrual period was greater than 12 months ago. She has 2 children and had regular menstrual periods in the past. She also complains of difficulty in falling and staying asleep, occasional hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido. The physical examination is unremarkable, and the height and weight are 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in) and 70 kg (154 lb), respectively. She has the following hormonal panel from 2 months ago when she first sought help for her symptoms.
Hormonal panel results
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin 4 IU/L (0.8 - 7.3 IU/L)
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone 2.5 mIU/L (0.4 - 4.2 mIU/L)
Prolactin 5 ng/mL (2-29 ng/mL)
Follicle Stimulating Hormone 45 mIU/mL (Follicular phase: 3.1-7.9 mIU/mL; Ovulation peak: 2.3-18.5 mIU/mL; Luteal phase: 1.4-5.5 mIU/mL)
Estradiol 5 pg/mL (Mid-follicular phase: 27-123 pg/mL; Periovulatory: 96-436 pg/mL; Mid-luteal phase: 49-294 pg/mL)
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Question:
Hormonal panel results
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin 4 IU/L (0.8 - 7.3 IU/L)
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone 2.5 mIU/L (0.4 - 4.2 mIU/L)
Prolactin 5 ng/mL (2-29 ng/mL)
Follicle Stimulating Hormone 45 mIU/mL (Follicular phase: 3.1-7.9 mIU/mL; Ovulation peak: 2.3-18.5 mIU/mL; Luteal phase: 1.4-5.5 mIU/mL)
Estradiol 5 pg/mL (Mid-follicular phase: 27-123 pg/mL; Periovulatory: 96-436 pg/mL; Mid-luteal phase: 49-294 pg/mL)
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Answer: Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)


Context: A 52-year-old female was found upon mammography to have branching calcifications in the right lower breast. Physical exam revealed a palpable nodularity in the same location. A tissue biopsy was taken from the lesion, and the pathology report diagnosed the lesion as comedocarcinoma. Which of the following histological findings is most likely present in the lesion?

Question: Which of the following histological findings is most likely present in the lesion?

Answer: Pleomorphic cells surrounding areas of caseous necrosis


Context: A 6-year-old male presents to the pediatrician with seizures. His mother reports that the patient has had two seizures lasting about 30 seconds each over the last three days. She reports that the patient has previously had seizures a few times per year since he was 12 months of age. The patient’s past medical history is otherwise notable for intellectual disability. He rolled over at 14 months of age and walked at 24 months of age. The patient’s mother denies any family history of epilepsy or other neurologic diseases. The patient is in the 3rd percentile for height and the 15th percentile for weight. On physical exam, he has a happy demeanor with frequent smiling. The patient has strabismus and an ataxic gait accompanied by flapping of the hands. He responds intermittently to questions with one-word answers. This patient is most likely to have which of the following genetic abnormalities?

Question: This patient is most likely to have which of the following genetic abnormalities?

Answer: Paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 15


Context: A 29-year-old woman comes to the physician for the evaluation of progressive loss of vision in her left eye and gradual blurring of vision in her right eye over the past 2 months. She also says that she has had occasional headaches and has noticed a decrease in her sense of smell lately. The patient's only medication is fexofenadine for seasonal allergies. She is 158 cm (5 ft 2 in) tall and weighs 61 kg (135 lbs); BMI is 24.7 kg/m2. Vital signs are within normal limits. Visual acuity is 20/40 in the right eye and there is minimal light perception in the left eye. In the swinging flashlight test, both of her eyes dilate as the light moves from the right to left eye. Fundoscopy shows papilledema in the right optic disc and a pale left optic disc. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Meningioma


Context: A 28-year-old man presents to his primary care physician for a general checkup. The patient is a healthy young man with no significant past medical history. He is a MD/PhD student and lives in New York City. He exercises frequently and is doing very well in school. He is currently sexually active with multiple female partners and does not use protection. His temperature is 98.9°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 147/98 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, respirations are 14/min, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. Physical exam is notable for a very muscular young man. The patient has comedonal acne and palpable breast tissue. Testicular exam reveals small and symmetrical testicles. Which of the following laboratory changes is most likely to be found in this patient?

Question: Which of the following laboratory changes is most likely to be found in this patient?

Answer: Decreased GnRH


Context: A 72-year-old man presents to the physician with blood in his sputum for 3 days. He also mentions that he has had a cough for the last 3 months but thought that it was because of the winter season. He also has often experienced fatigue recently. His temperature is 37.0°C (98.6°F), the respiratory rate is 15/min, the pulse is 67/min, and the blood pressure is 122/98 mm Hg. Auscultation of his chest reveals normal heart sounds but localized rhonchi over the right infrascapular region. A detailed diagnostic evaluation including a complete blood count and other serum biochemistry, chest radiogram, computed tomography of chest and abdomen, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, bone scan, and pulmonary function tests are ordered, which confirm a diagnosis of limited-disease small cell lung cancer of 2.5 cm (1 in) in diameter, located in the lower lobe of the right lung, with the involvement of ipsilateral hilar lymph nodes and intrapulmonary lymph nodes. The mediastinal, subcarinal, scalene or supraclavicular lymph nodes are not involved, and there is no distant metastasis. There is no additional comorbidity and his performance status is good. The patient does not have any contraindication to any chemotherapeutic agents or radiotherapy. Which of the following is the best treatment option for this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the best treatment option for this patient?

Answer: Platinum-based chemotherapy plus etoposide and thoracic radiation therapy


Context: A 34-year-old man is brought to a psychiatric hospital by friends for erratic behavior. He has been up for the past several nights painting his apartment walls purple and reading the Bible out loud, as well as talking fast and making sexually provocative comments. Collateral information from family reveals 2 similar episodes last year. Mental status exam is notable for labile affect and grandiose delusions. Urine toxicology is negative. The patient is admitted and started on lithium for mania. His symptoms resolve within 2 weeks. How should this patient’s lithium be managed in anticipation of discharge?

Question: How should this patient’s lithium be managed in anticipation of discharge?

Answer: Continue lithium lifelong


Context: A 70-year-old man comes to the physician for a follow-up examination of diffuse exertional chest pain which he has successfully been treating with sublingual nitroglycerin for the past year. The patient has been taking lisinopril daily for essential hypertension. His pulse is 75/min and regular, and blood pressure is 155/90 mm Hg. Cardiac and pulmonary examination show no abnormalities; there is no peripheral edema. A decrease of which of the following is the most likely explanation for the improvement of this patient's chest pain?

Question: A decrease of which of the following is the most likely explanation for the improvement of this patient's chest pain?

Answer: End-diastolic pressure


Context:
A 78-year-old woman living in New Jersey is brought to the emergency department in July with a fever for 5 days. Lethargy is present. She has had bloody urine over the last 48 hours but denies any nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. She has no history of serious illness and takes no medications. She has not traveled anywhere outside her city for the past several years. She appears ill. The temperature is 40.8℃ (105.4℉), the pulse is 108/min, the respiration rate is 20/min, and the blood pressure is 105/50 mm Hg. The abdominal exam reveals hepatosplenomegaly. Lymphadenopathy is absent. Petechiae are seen on the lower extremities. Laboratory studies show the following:
Laboratory test
Hemoglobin 8 g/dL
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 98 µm3
Leukocyte count 4,200/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 32%
Lymphocytes 58%
Platelet count 108,000/mm3
Bilirubin, total 5.0 mg/dL
Direct 0.7 mg/dL
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 51 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 56 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase 180 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) 640 U/L (N = 140–280 U/L)
Haptoglobin 20 mg/dL (N = 30–200 mg/dL)
Urine
Hemoglobin +
Urobilinogen +
Protein +
A peripheral blood smear is shown (see image). Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Babesiosis


Context: A 26-year-old woman is referred to a reproduction specialist because of an inability to conceive. She comes with her husband, who was previously examined for causes of male infertility, but was shown to be healthy. The patient has a history of 2 pregnancies at the age of 15 and 17, which were both terminated in the first trimester. She had menarche at the age of 11, and her menstrual cycles began to be regular at the age of 13. Her menses are now regular, but painful and heavy. Occasionally, she notes a mild pain in the lower left quadrant of her abdomen. Her past medical history is also significant for episodes of depression, but she currently denies any depressive symptoms. Current medications are sertraline daily and cognitive-behavioral therapy twice a week. After reviewing her history, the doctor suggests performing an exploratory laparoscopy with salpingoscopy. He explains the flow of the procedure and describes the risks and benefits of the procedure to the patient and her husband. The patient says she understands all the risks and benefits and agrees to undergo the procedure, but her husband disagrees and insists that he should have the final word because his wife is "a mentally unstable woman." Which of the following is correct about the informed consent for the procedure in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is correct about the informed consent for the procedure in this patient?

Answer: The patient can make the decision about the treatment herself because she does not show signs of decision-making incapability.


Context: A 28-year-old man is referred to the dermatologist for 2 months of increasing appearance of multiple smooth, circular patches of complete hair loss on his scalp. He says that the patches have associated pruritus and a burning sensation, and are not improving with the over-the-counter products recommended by his hair stylist. He denies pulling his hair intentionally. Physical examination reveals no epidermal inflammation or erythema, and no fluorescence is detected under Wood’s lamp. A punch biopsy shows a peribulbar lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate surrounding anagen follicles, resembling a swarm of bees. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Answer: Alopecia areata


Context: A 71-year-old woman presents to her hematologist-oncologist for follow up after having begun doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide in addition to radiation therapy for the treatment of her stage 3 breast cancer. Her past medical history is significant for preeclampsia, hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hypercholesterolemia. She currently smokes 1 pack of cigarettes per day, drinks a glass of wine per day, and denies any illicit drug use. The vital signs include: temperature 36.7°C (98.0°F), blood pressure 126/74 mm Hg, heart rate 111/min, and respiratory rate 23/min. On physical examination, the pulses are strong and irregular, she has a grade 3/6 holosystolic murmur heard best at the left upper sternal border, clear bilateral breath sounds, and erythema over her site of radiation. Which of the following statements regarding doxorubicin is true?

Question: Which of the following statements regarding doxorubicin is true?

Answer: Doxorubicin has a maximum lifetime dose, due to the risk of cardiac toxicity


Context:
A 34-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 3-week history of left testicular swelling. He has no pain. He underwent a left inguinal hernia repair as a child. He takes no medications. He appears healthy. His vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows an enlarged, nontender left testicle. When the patient is asked to cough, there is no bulge present in the scrotum. When a light is held behind the scrotum, it does not shine through. There is no inguinal lymphadenopathy. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 14.5 g/dL
Leukocyte count 8,800/mm3
Platelet count 345,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 88 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Total bilirubin 0.7 mg/dL
Alkaline phosphatase 35 U/L
AST 15 U/L
ALT 14 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase 60 U/L
β-Human chorionic gonadotropin 80 mIU/mL (N < 5)
α-Fetoprotein 6 ng/mL (N < 10)
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 14.5 g/dL
Leukocyte count 8,800/mm3
Platelet count 345,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 88 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Total bilirubin 0.7 mg/dL
Alkaline phosphatase 35 U/L
AST 15 U/L
ALT 14 U/L
Lactate dehydrogenase 60 U/L
β-Human chorionic gonadotropin 80 mIU/mL (N < 5)
α-Fetoprotein 6 ng/mL (N < 10)
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?"

Answer: Seminoma


Context: A 33-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with pain in her right wrist. She says she was walking on the sidewalk a few hours ago when she suddenly slipped and landed forcefully on her outstretched right hand with her palm facing down. The patient is afebrile, and vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination of her right wrist shows mild edema and tenderness on the lateral side of the right hand with a decreased range of motion. Sensation is intact. The patient is able to make a fist and OK sign with her right hand. A plain radiograph of her right wrist is shown in the image. Which of the following bones is most likely fractured in this patient?

Question: Which of the following bones is most likely fractured in this patient?

Answer: Bone labeled 'D'


Context: A 24-year-old primigravida presents to her physician for regular prenatal care at 31 weeks gestation . She has no complaints and the antepartum  course has been uncomplicated. Her pre-gestational history is significant for obesity (BMI = 30.5 kg/m2). She has gained a total of 10 kg (22.4 lb) during pregnancy,; and  2 kg (4.48 lb) since her last visit 4 weeks ago. Her vital signs are as follows: blood pressure, 145/90 mm Hg; heart rate, 87/min; respiratory rate, 14/min; and temperature, 36.7℃ (98℉). The fetal heart rate is 153/min. The physical examination shows no edema and is only significant for a 2/6 systolic murmur best heard at the apex of the heart. A 24-hour urine is negative for protein. Which of the following options describe the best management strategy in this case?

Question: Which of the following options describe the best management strategy in this case?

Answer: Observation in the outpatient settings


Context: A 17-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his father because of fever, congestion, and malaise for the past 2 days. He reports a sensation of pressure over his nose and cheeks. Over the past year, he has had an intermittent cough productive of green sputum and lately has noticed some streaks of blood in the sputum. He has had over 10 episodes of sinusitis, all of which were successfully treated with antibiotics. There is no family history of serious illness. The patient's vaccinations are up-to-date. His temperature is 38°C (100.4°F), pulse is 90/min, and blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Physical examination shows tenderness to palpation over both cheeks. Crackles and rhonchi are heard on auscultation of the chest. Cardiac examination shows an absence of heart sounds along the left lower chest. Which of the following additional findings is most likely in this patient?

Question: Which of the following additional findings is most likely in this patient?

Answer: Immotile sperm


Context: A 26-year-old woman presents with episodes of intermittent fever, arthralgias, constant fatigue, weight loss, and plaque-like rash on sun-exposed areas, which have been gradually increasing over the last 6 months. On presentation, her vital signs include: blood pressure is 110/80 mm Hg, heart rate is 87/min, respiratory rate is 14/min, and temperature is 37.5°C (99.5°F). Physical examination reveals an erythematous scaling rash on the patient’s face distributed in a ‘butterfly-like’ fashion, erythematous keratinized patches on the sun-exposed areas, and mild lower leg edema. During the workup, the patient is found to be positive for anti-Sm (anti-Smith) antibodies. Which process is altered in this patient?

Question: Which process is altered in this patient?

Answer: Ineffective clearance of cellular debris


Context: A medical student is reviewing dose-response curves of various experimental drugs. She is specifically interested in the different factors that cause the curve to shift in different directions. From her study, she plots the following graph (see image). She marks the blue curve for drug A, which acts optimally on a receptor. After drawing the second (green) curve, she discovers that this drug B has a lower ability to produce a reaction than the first one. She also discovers that more of the second drug B is required to produce the same response as the first one. Which of the following terms best describes the activity of drug B in comparison to drug A?

Question: Which of the following terms best describes the activity of drug B in comparison to drug A?

Answer: Lower potency


Context: A 40-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 3-month history of a lump on her neck. The lump is mildly painful. She appears healthy. Examination shows a swelling on the left side of her neck that moves on swallowing. Cardiopulmonary examination shows no abnormalities. Her TSH is 3.6 μU/mL. Ultrasound shows a 0.4-cm (0.15-in) hypoechoic mass in the left thyroid lobe. Fine-needle aspiration of the mass shows neoplastic follicular cells. Molecular analysis of the aspirate shows a mutation in the RAS gene. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Answer: Thyroid lobectomy


Context:
A 46-year-old woman presents to her primary care provider for itching. She reports that she has always had dry skin but that the itching has gotten significantly worse over the last few years. The patient also endorses fatigue and dull abdominal pain. Her past medical history includes Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, mitral valve prolapse, and osteoarthritis. She takes levothyroxine and ibuprofen for pain in her knees. The patient drinks 2-3 beers per week. She has a 10 pack-year smoking history but quit 15 years ago. She denies any family history of cancer. On physical exam, her sclera are anicteric. Her abdomen is soft and tender to palpation in the right upper quadrant. Her bowel sounds are normal and hepatomegaly is present. A right upper quadrant ultrasound shows no evidence of extrahepatic biliary dilation. Laboratory studies are performed which reveal the following:

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): 76 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): 57 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase: 574 U/L
Total bilirubin: 1.6 mg/dL

This patient is most likely to have which of the following additional findings?

Question:
Laboratory studies are performed which reveal the following:

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): 76 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): 57 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase: 574 U/L
Total bilirubin: 1.6 mg/dL

This patient is most likely to have which of the following additional findings?

Answer: Hyperlipidemia


Context: A 67-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus and benign prostatic hyperplasia comes to the physician because of a 2-day history of sneezing and clear nasal discharge. He has had similar symptoms occasionally in the past. His current medications include metformin and tamsulosin. Examination of the nasal cavity shows red, swollen turbinates. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's condition?

Answer: Desloratadine


Context: A 24-year-old man presents with recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea with fatty porridge-like stools and occasional blood up to 8 times per day, joint pain, and weight loss. Ileocolonoscopy shows regions of erythema, swelling, and cobblestone-like appearance of the ascending colon and terminal ileum. Targeted biopsies are taken for evaluation. One of the slides, which underwent histological assessment, is shown in the image. Which of the following best describes the histologic finding marked with the blue circle?

Question: Which of the following best describes the histologic finding marked with the blue circle?

Answer: Cryptitis


Context:
A 56-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of progressively worsening shortness of breath and fever for 2 days. He also has a nonproductive cough. He does not have chest pain or headache. He has chronic myeloid leukemia and had a bone marrow transplant 3 months ago. His current medications include busulfan, mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, and methylprednisolone. His temperature is 38.1°C (100.6°F), pulse is 103/min, respirations are 26/min, and blood pressure is 130/70 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 93%. Pulmonary examination shows diffuse crackles. The spleen tip is palpated 4 cm below the left costal margin. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 10.3 g/dL
Leukocyte count 4,400/mm3
Platelet count 160,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 78 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.1 mg/dL
D-dimer 96 ng/mL (N < 250)
pp65 antigen positive
Galactomannan antigen negative
Urinalysis is normal. An x-ray of the chest shows diffuse bilateral interstitial infiltrates. An ECG shows sinus tachycardia. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy?"

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy?"

Answer: Ganciclovir


Context: A 20-year-old student is referred to his college's student health department because his roommates are concerned about his recent behavior. He rarely leaves his room, has not showered in several days, appears to be praying constantly even though he is not religious, and has not been studying despite previously being an extremely good student. After evaluating this patient, a physician decides to recommend initiation of pharmacological treatment. The patient's family is concerned because they heard that the drug being recommended may be associated with heart problems. Which of the following characteristics is a property of the most likely drug that was prescribed in this case?

Question: Which of the following characteristics is a property of the most likely drug that was prescribed in this case?

Answer: Associated with development of retinal deposits


Context:
A researcher is investigating the risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage associated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) treatment in severe ischemic stroke. The outcomes of a large randomized controlled trial of ischemic stroke patients, some of whom were randomized to tPA, is shown:
Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage No symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage
Received tPA 12 188
Did not receive tPA 25 475
Based on this data, how many patients with severe ischemic stroke would need to be treated with tPA, on average, to contribute to one case of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage?"

Question:
The outcomes of a large randomized controlled trial of ischemic stroke patients, some of whom were randomized to tPA, is shown:
Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage No symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage
Received tPA 12 188
Did not receive tPA 25 475
Based on this data, how many patients with severe ischemic stroke would need to be treated with tPA, on average, to contribute to one case of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage?"

Answer: 100


Context: An 31-year-old Israeli male with a history of heavy smoking presents to your office with painful ulcerations on his hands and feet. Upon examination, he is found to have hypersensitivity to intradermally injected tobacco extract. Which of the following processes is most likely responsible for his condition?

Question: Which of the following processes is most likely responsible for his condition?

Answer: Segmental vasculitis of small and medium-sized arteries


Context: A 14-year-old boy is brought to the physician because of increasing swelling of his legs and generalized fatigue for 1 month. During this period he has also had a productive cough and shortness of breath. He has been unable to carry out his daily activities. He has a history of recurrent respiratory tract infections and chronic nasal congestion since childhood. He has a 3-month history of foul-smelling and greasy stools. He is at 4th percentile for height and weight. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 112/min, respirations are 23/min, and blood pressure is 104/64 mm Hg. Examination shows clubbing of his fingers and scoliosis. There is 2+ pitting edema of the lower extremities. Jugular venous distention is present. Inspiratory crackles are heard in the thorax. Cardiac examination shows a loud S2. The abdomen is mildly distended and the liver is palpated 2 cm below the right costal margin. Hepato-jugular reflux is present. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Cystic fibrosis


Context: A 49-year-old female with a long history of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus visits her primary care physician with 2+ non-pitting edema in her legs. The patient has a serum creatinine of 2.9 mg/dL and a blood urea nitrogen of 61 mg/dL. A 24-hour urine collection reveals 8.5 grams of protein. A renal biopsy is obtained. Which of the following histologic findings is most likely to be seen upon tissue analysis:

Question: Which of the following histologic findings is most likely to be seen upon tissue analysis:

Answer: Nodular thickening of the glomerular basement membrane


Context: A 72-year-old man with longstanding history of diabetes mellitus and hypertension presents to the emergency department with sudden-onset numbness. On your neurological exam, you note that he has loss of sensation on the left side of his face, arm, and leg. His motor strength exam is normal, as are his cranial nerves. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for his presentation?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely explanation for his presentation?

Answer: Thalamic stroke


Context: A 24-year-old graduate student is brought to the emergency department by her boyfriend because of chest pain that started 90 minutes ago. Her boyfriend says she has been taking medication to help her study for an important exam and has not slept in several days. On examination, she is diaphoretic, agitated, and attempts to remove her IV lines and ECG leads. Her temperature is 37.6°C (99.7°F), pulse is 128/min, and blood pressure is 163/97 mmHg. Her pupils are dilated. The most appropriate next step in management is the administration of which of the following?

Question: The most appropriate next step in management is the administration of which of the following?

Answer: Lorazepam


Context: A 19-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting for 4 hours. Initially, the pain was dull and located diffusely around his umbilicus, but it has now become sharper and moved towards his lower right side. He has no history of serious illness and takes no medications. His temperature is 38.2°C (100.7°F) and blood pressure is 123/80 mm Hg. Physical examination shows severe right lower quadrant tenderness without rebound or guarding; bowel sounds are decreased. His hemoglobin concentration is 14.2 g/dL, leukocyte count is 12,000/mm3, and platelet count is 280,000/mm3. Abdominal ultrasonography shows a dilated noncompressible appendix with distinct wall layers and echogenic periappendiceal fat. Intravenous fluid resuscitation is begun. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Answer: Perform laparoscopic appendectomy


Context:
A 57-year-old man is brought to the emergency department 2 hours after the onset of severe nausea and vomiting. He also has cramping abdominal pain and feels fatigued. Two months ago, he injured his lumbar spine in a car accident and lost complete motor and sensory function below the level of injury. He has been bedridden ever since and is cared for at home. He has type 2 diabetes mellitus and renal insufficiency. Examination shows dry mucosal membranes and sensory impairment with flaccid paralysis in both lower limbs that is consistent with prior examinations. Laboratory studies show:
Serum
Calcium 12.8 mg/dL
Parathyroid hormone, N-terminal 180 pg/mL
Thyroid-stimulating hormone 2.5 μU/mL
Thyroxine 8 μg/dL
Calcitriol Decreased
Creatinine 2.6 mg/dL
Urine
Calcium 550 mg/24 h
In addition to administration of intravenous 0.9% saline and calcitonin, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Serum
Calcium 12.8 mg/dL
Parathyroid hormone, N-terminal 180 pg/mL
Thyroid-stimulating hormone 2.5 μU/mL
Thyroxine 8 μg/dL
Calcitriol Decreased
Creatinine 2.6 mg/dL
Urine
Calcium 550 mg/24 h
In addition to administration of intravenous 0.9% saline and calcitonin, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?"

Answer: Bisphosphonates


Context: A 49-year-old homeless man comes to the emergency department because of fatigue, cough, and worsening shortness of breath for 2 weeks. He was diagnosed with HIV-infection 25 years ago but has never had any symptoms. He has always refused to take antiretroviral medication. Pulmonary examination shows diffuse crackles over bilateral lower lung fields. An x-ray of the chest shows diffuse, symmetrical interstitial infiltrates. His serum level of beta-d-glucan is elevated. Further testing shows a heterozygous mutation that prevents entry of HIV into macrophages. Which of the following proteins is most likely affected by the mutation in this patient?

Question: Which of the following proteins is most likely affected by the mutation in this patient?

Answer: CCR5


Context:
A 30-year-old man presents to the emergency department with complaints of red, pinkish urine in the morning. He adds that he has been feeling some abdominal pain. The patient is not taking any medication, and his laboratory test results are as follows:
Hb 11.0 g/dL
RBC 3.7 x 1012/L
WBC 4,000/mm3
PLT 100,000/mm3
Reticulocytes 17% of red cells
Coombs test Negative
Blood smear Polychromasia
Which statement is true about this patient’s condition?

Question:
The patient is not taking any medication, and his laboratory test results are as follows:
Hb 11.0 g/dL
RBC 3.7 x 1012/L
WBC 4,000/mm3
PLT 100,000/mm3
Reticulocytes 17% of red cells
Coombs test Negative
Blood smear Polychromasia
Which statement is true about this patient’s condition?

Answer: Eculizumab can be used to treat this condition


Context: A 15-year-old man presents with his father to the urgent care with 5 days of frequent diarrhea, occasionally with streaks of blood mixed in. Stool cultures are pending, but preliminary stool samples demonstrate fecal leukocytes and erythrocytes. His vital signs are as follows: blood pressure is 126/83 mm Hg, heart rate is 97/min, and respiratory rate is 15/min. He is started on outpatient therapy for presumed Shigella infection. Which of the following is the most appropriate therapy?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate therapy?

Answer: Oral TMP-SMX


Context: During subject selection for an infant neurological development study, a child is examined by the primary investigator. She is at the 80th percentile for length and weight. She has started crawling. She looks for dropped objects. She says mama and dada non-specifically. She can perform the pincer grasp. Which of the following additional skills or behaviors would be expected in a healthy patient of this developmental age?

Question: Which of the following additional skills or behaviors would be expected in a healthy patient of this developmental age?

Answer: Pulls up to stand


Context:
A 52-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of a 3-week history of abdominal distention, yellow coloring of the skin, and dark urine. He also reports malaise and progressive shortness of breath, associated with slight exertion, for several weeks. The patient is a chronic drinker, and he was diagnosed with cirrhosis 2 years ago. He was warned to stop drinking alcohol, but he continues to drink. He hasn’t accepted any more testing and has refused to visit the doctor until now. His vital signs are heart rate 62/min, respiratory rate 26/min, temperature 37.4°C (99.3°F), and blood pressure 117/95 mm Hg. On physical examination, there is dyspnea and polypnea. Skin and sclera are jaundiced. The abdomen has visible collateral circulation and looks distended. There is diffuse abdominal pain upon palpation in the right hemiabdomen, and the liver is palpated 10 cm below the right costal border. The legs show significant edema. CT scan shows cirrhosis with portal hypertension and collateral circulation. During the fifth day of his hospital stay, the patient presents with oliguria and altered mental status. Laboratory studies show:
  Day 1
Day 5
Hemoglobin
12.1 g/dL
11.2 g/dL
Hematocrit
33.3%
31.4%
Leukocyte count
7,000/mm3
6,880/mm3
Platelet count
220,000/mm3
134,000/mm3
Total bilirubin
20.4 mg/dL
28.0 mg/dL
Direct bilirubin
12.6 mg/dL
21.7 mg/dL
Creatinine
2.2 mg/dL
2.9 mg/dL
Albumin
3.4 g/dL
2.6 g/dL
PT
5 s
16.9 s
aPTT
19 s
35 s
Urinalysis
  Negative for nitrite
Negative for leukocyte esterase
0–2 RBCs per high power field
0–1 WBC per high power field
No evidence of casts or proteinuria
What is the most likely cause of this patient’s increased creatinine?

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
  Day 1
Day 5
Hemoglobin
12.1 g/dL
11.2 g/dL
Hematocrit
33.3%
31.4%
Leukocyte count
7,000/mm3
6,880/mm3
Platelet count
220,000/mm3
134,000/mm3
Total bilirubin
20.4 mg/dL
28.0 mg/dL
Direct bilirubin
12.6 mg/dL
21.7 mg/dL
Creatinine
2.2 mg/dL
2.9 mg/dL
Albumin
3.4 g/dL
2.6 g/dL
PT
5 s
16.9 s
aPTT
19 s
35 s
Urinalysis
  Negative for nitrite
Negative for leukocyte esterase
0–2 RBCs per high power field
0–1 WBC per high power field
No evidence of casts or proteinuria
What is the most likely cause of this patient’s increased creatinine?

Answer: Hepatorenal syndrome