Context: A 62-year-old man comes to the physician for a follow-up examination after having been diagnosed with stage II adenocarcinoma of the left lower lung lobe without evidence of distant metastases 1 week ago following an evaluation for a chronic cough. He has hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. He has smoked one pack of cigarettes daily for the past 40 years. His current medications include metformin, sitagliptin, and enalapril. He is 177 cm (5 ft 10 in) tall and weighs 65 kg (143 lb); BMI is 20.7 kg/m2. He appears lethargic. Vital signs are within normal limits. Pulse oximetry shows an oxygen saturation of 98%. Examination shows inspiratory wheezing at the left lung base. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. A complete blood count and serum concentrations of electrolytes, creatinine, glucose, and liver enzymes are within the reference range. Spirometry shows an FEV1 of 1.6 L. The diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is 66% of predicted. 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: Schedule lobectomy


Context:
An otherwise healthy 23-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 3-day history of mild persistent bleeding from the site of a tooth extraction. He has no prior history of medical procedures or surgeries and no history of easy bruising. He appears well. Vital signs are within normal limits. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 12.4 g/dL
Platelets 200,000/mm3
Serum
Prothrombin time 25 seconds
Partial thromboplastin time (activated) 35 seconds
Deficiency of which of the following coagulation factors is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 12.4 g/dL
Platelets 200,000/mm3
Serum
Prothrombin time 25 seconds
Partial thromboplastin time (activated) 35 seconds
Deficiency of which of the following coagulation factors is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?"

Answer: Factor VII


Context: A 64-year-old man presents to his primary care clinic for a regular checkup. He reports feeling depressed since his wife left him 6 months prior and is unable to recall why she left him. He denies any sleep disturbance, change in his eating habits, guilt, or suicidal ideation. His past medical history is notable for hypertension, gout, and a myocardial infarction five years ago. He takes lisinopril, aspirin, metoprolol, and allopurinol. He has a 50 pack-year smoking history and was previously a heroin addict but has not used in over 20 years. He drinks at least 6 beers per day. His temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 155/95 mmHg, pulse is 100/min, and respirations are 18/min. He appears somewhat disheveled, inattentive, and smells of alcohol. During his prior visits, he has been well-groomed and attentive. When asked what year it is and who the president is, he confidently replies “1999” and “Jimmy Carter.” He says his son’s name is “Peter” when it is actually “Jake.” This patient likely has a lesion in which of the following brain regions?

Question: When asked what year it is and who the president is, he confidently replies “1999” and “Jimmy Carter.” He says his son’s name is “Peter” when it is actually “Jake.” This patient likely has a lesion in which of the following brain regions?

Answer: Anterior pillars of the fornix


Context: A 21-year-old man comes to the physician's office due to a 3-week history of fatigue and a rash, along with the recent development of joint pain that has moved from his knee to his elbows. The patient reports going camping last month but denies having been bitten by a tick. His past medical history is significant for asthma treated with an albuterol inhaler. His pulse is 54/min and blood pressure is 110/72. Physical examination reveals multiple circular red rings with central clearings on the right arm and chest. There is a normal range of motion in all joints and 5/5 strength bilaterally in the upper and lower extremities. Without proper treatment, the patient is at highest risk for which of the following complications?

Question: Without proper treatment, the patient is at highest risk for which of the following complications?

Answer: Cranial nerve palsy


Context: A 58-year-old man presents to the emergency department with severe chest pain and uneasiness. He says that symptoms onset acutely half an hour ago while he was watching television. He describes the pain as being 8/10 in intensity, sharp in character, localized to the center of the chest and retrosternal, and radiating to the back and shoulders. The patient denies any associated change in the pain with breathing or body position. He says he has associated nausea but denies any vomiting. He denies any recent history of fever, chills, or chronic cough. His past medical history is significant for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes mellitus for which he takes lisinopril, hydrochlorothiazide, simvastatin, and metformin. He reports a 30-pack-year smoking history and has 1–2 alcoholic drinks during the weekend. Family history is significant for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and an ST elevation myocardial infarction in his father and paternal uncle. His blood pressure is 220/110 mm Hg in the right arm and 180/100 mm Hg in the left arm. On physical examination, the patient is diaphoretic. Cardiac exam reveals a grade 2/6 diastolic decrescendo murmur loudest over the left sternal border. Remainder of the physical examination is normal. The chest radiograph shows a widened mediastinum. The electrocardiogram (ECG) reveals non-specific ST segment and T wave changes. Intravenous morphine and beta-blockers are started. 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: Aortic dissection


Context: A study on cholesterol levels is performed. There are 1000 participants. It is determined that in this population, the mean LDL is 200 mg/dL with a standard deviation of 50 mg/dL. If the population has a normal distribution, how many people have a cholesterol less than 300 mg/dL?

Question: If the population has a normal distribution, how many people have a cholesterol less than 300 mg/dL?

Answer: 975


Context: A 2-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his mother for evaluation of recurrent infections and easy bruising. He has been hospitalized 3 times for severe skin and respiratory infections, which responded to treatment with antibiotics. Examination shows sparse silvery hair. The skin is hypopigmented and there are diffuse petechiae. Laboratory studies show a hemoglobin concentration of 8 g/dL, leukocyte count of 3000/mm3, and platelet count of 45,000/mm3. A peripheral blood smear shows giant cytoplasmic granules in granulocytes and platelets. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Defective lysosomal trafficking regulator gene


Context: To protect against a potentially deadly infection, a 19-year-old female receives a vaccine containing capsular polysaccharide. This vaccine will stimulate her immune system to produce antibodies against which organism?

Question: This vaccine will stimulate her immune system to produce antibodies against which organism?

Answer: Neisseria meningitidis


Context:
A 6-year-old African American boy presents with fever, jaundice, normochromic normocytic anemia and generalized bone pain. He has a history of similar recurrent bone pain in the past which was partially relieved by analgesics. His vital signs include: blood pressure 120/70 mm Hg, pulse 105/min, respiratory rate 40/min, temperature 37.7℃ (99.9℉), and oxygen saturation 98% in room air. On physical examination, the patient is in severe distress due to pain. He is pale, icteric and dehydrated. His abdomen is full, tense and some degree of guarding is present. Musculoskeletal examination reveals diffuse tenderness of the legs and arms. A complete blood count reveals the following:
Hb 6.5g/dL
Hct 18%
MCV 82.3 fL
Platelet 465,000/µL
WBC 9800/µL
Reticulocyte 7%
Total bilirubin 84 g/dL
A peripheral blood smear shows target cells, elongated cells, and erythrocytes with nuclear remnants. Results from Hb electrophoresis are shown in the exhibit (see image). 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: Sickle cell disease


Context: A 69-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with substernal, crushing chest pain. She is emergently moved to the cardiac catheterization lab where she undergoes cardiac angiography. Angiography reveals that the diameter of her left anterior descending artery (LAD) is 50% of normal. If her blood pressure, LAD length, and blood viscosity have not changed, which of the following represents the most likely change in LAD flow from baseline?

Question: If her blood pressure, LAD length, and blood viscosity have not changed, which of the following represents the most likely change in LAD flow from baseline?

Answer: Decreased by 93.75%


Context:
A 63-year-old man comes to the physician because of generalized fatigue and malaise for 2 months. He has been unable to engage in his daily activities. Three months ago, he was treated for a urinary tract infection with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. He has hypertension, asthma, and chronic lower back pain. Current medications include hydrochlorothiazide, an albuterol inhaler, naproxen, and an aspirin-caffeine combination. Vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows conjunctival pallor. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 9.1 g/dL
Leukocyte count 8,900/mm3
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 13 mm/h
Serum
Na+ 136 mEq/L
K+ 4.8 mEq/L
Cl- 102 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen 41 mg/dL
Glucose 70 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.4 mg/dL
Calcium 9.8 mg/dL
Urine
Protein 1+
Blood 1+
RBCs none
WBCs 8–9/hpf
Bacteria none
Urine cultures are negative. Ultrasound shows shrunken kidneys with irregular contours and papillary calcifications. Which of the following is the most likely underlying mechanism of this patient's renal failure?"

Question: Which of the following is the most likely underlying mechanism of this patient's renal failure?"

Answer: Inhibition of prostacyclin production


Context: A 60-year-old woman presents to the clinic with a 3-month history of shortness of breath that worsens on exertion. She also complains of chronic cough that has lasted for 10 years. Her symptoms are worsened even with light activities like climbing up a flight of stairs. She denies any weight loss, lightheadedness, or fever. Her medical history is significant for hypertension, for which she takes amlodipine daily. She has a 70-pack-year history of cigarette smoking and drinks 3–4 alcoholic beverages per week. Her blood pressure today is 128/84 mm Hg. A chest X-ray shows flattening of the diaphragm bilaterally. Physical examination is notable for coarse wheezing bilaterally. Which of the following is likely to be seen with pulmonary function testing?

Question: Which of the following is likely to be seen with pulmonary function testing?

Answer: Decreased FEV1: FVC and increased total lung capacity


Context: A 54-year-old male presents to clinic complaining that he is not sleeping well because he has to get up from bed to urinate multiple times throughout the night. He says that he strains to void, has terminal dribbling, and has urinary urgency. Past medical history is significant for orthostatic hypotension. On digital rectal exam, you note symmetric firm enlargement of the prostate. Free Prostate-Specific-Antigen (PSA) level is 4.6 ng/mL. Before you finish your physical exam, the patient asks if there is anything you can do for his male-pattern baldness. What is the mechanism of action of the drug that would pharmacologically treat this patient’s urinary issues and his male-pattern baldness?

Question: What is the mechanism of action of the drug that would pharmacologically treat this patient’s urinary issues and his male-pattern baldness?

Answer: 5-alpha reductase inhibition


Context: A 75-year-old man presents to the emergency department after an episode of syncope while walking outside with his wife. His wife states that he suddenly appeared pale and collapsed to the ground. She says he remained unconscious for 1 minute. He says noticed a fluttering in his chest and excessive sweating before the episode. He has type 2 diabetes mellitus, essential hypertension, and chronic stable angina. He has not started any new medications in the past few months. Vital signs reveal: temperature 37.0°C (98.6°F), blood pressure 135/72 mm Hg, and pulse 72/min. Physical examination is unremarkable. ECG shows an old bifascicular block. Echocardiogram and 24-hour Holter monitoring are normal. Which of the following is the best next step in the evaluation of this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following is the best next step in the evaluation of this patient’s condition?

Answer: Continuous loop recorder


Context: Two days after undergoing emergency cardiac catherization for myocardial infarction, a 68-year-old woman has pain in her toes. During the intervention, she was found to have an occluded left anterior descending artery and 3 stents were placed. She has hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and coronary artery disease. Prior to admission, her medications were metoprolol, enalapril, atorvastatin, and aspirin. Her temperature is 37.3°C (99.1°F), pulse is 93/min, and blood pressure is 115/78 mm Hg. Examination shows discoloration of the toes of both feet. A photograph of the right foot is shown. The lesions are cool and tender to palpation. The rest of the skin on the feet is warm; femoral and pedal pulses are palpable bilaterally. This patient is at increased risk for which of the following conditions?

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

Answer: Acute kidney injury


Context: A novel PET radiotracer is being evaluated for its ability to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The study decides to use a sample size of 1,000 patients, and half of the patients enrolled have AD. In the group of patients with AD, 400 are found positive on the novel type of PET imaging examination. In the control group, 50 are found positive. What is the PPV of this novel exam?

Question: What is the PPV of this novel exam?

Answer: 400 / (400+50)


Context: A 17-year-old girl is brought in by her mother due to rapid weight loss over the past month. The patient says she has been having episodes of diarrhea, which she attributes to laxatives she takes regularly to keep her weight down. She also says she has not had her period yet. The patient’s mother adds that the patient has been underperforming at school and acting very strangely at home. Her current BMI is 16.8 kg/m2. On physical examination, the skin on her limbs and around her neck is inflamed and erythematous. Her tongue is bright red and smooth. She states that over the last 2 weeks, she has been eating nothing but small portions of fruit. She is diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency. Which of the following statements is true about the vitamin most likely deficient in this patient?

Question: Which of the following statements is true about the vitamin most likely deficient in this patient?

Answer: Synthesis requires vitamin B2 and B6


Context: A 57-year-old man is admitted to the burn unit after he was brought to the emergency room following an accidental fire in his house. His past medical history is unknown due to his current clinical condition. Currently, his blood pressure is 75/40 mmHg, pulse rate is 140/min, and respiratory rate is 17/min. The patient is subsequently intubated and started on aggressive fluid resuscitation. A Swan-Ganz catheter is inserted to clarify his volume status. Which of the following hemodynamic parameters would you expect to see in this patient?

Question: Which of the following hemodynamic parameters would you expect to see in this patient?

Answer: Cardiac output: ↓, systemic vascular resistance: ↑, pulmonary artery wedge pressure: ↓


Context:
A 35-year-old woman volunteers for a study on respiratory physiology. Pressure probes A and B are placed as follows:
Probe A: between the parietal and visceral pleura
Probe B: within the cavity of an alveoli
The probes provide a pressure reading relative to atmospheric pressure. To obtain a baseline reading, she is asked to sit comfortably and breathe normally. Which of the following sets of values will most likely be seen at the end of inspiration?

Question: Which of the following sets of values will most likely be seen at the end of inspiration?

Answer: Probe A: -6 mm Hg; Probe B: 0 mm Hg


Context: A 16-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 2-hour history of sudden-onset abdominal pain. He was playing football when his symptoms started. The patient’s past medical history is notable only for asthma. Social history is notable for unprotected sex with 4 women in the past month. His temperature is 99.3°F (37.4°C), blood pressure is 120/88 mmHg, pulse is 117/min, respirations are 14/min, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. Physical exam is noted for a non-tender abdomen. Testicular exam reveals a right testicle which is elevated with a horizontal lie and the scrotum is neither swollen nor discolored. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Testicular torsion


Context:
Please refer to the summary above to answer this question
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?"
"Patient Information
Age: 23 years
Gender: F, self-identified
Ethnicity: unspecified
Site of Care: office
History
Reason for Visit/Chief Concern: “I can't run anymore because my knee hurts.”
History of Present Illness:
2-day history of right knee pain
pain is localized “somewhere under the kneecap”
pain is achy; rated 5/10; increases to 8/10 with prolonged sitting
reports an occasional “popping” sound and sensation when she rises from a seated position
no history of trauma to the knee
Past Medical History:
right clavicular fracture 2 years ago, treated with a shoulder sling
Medications:
multivitamin
Allergies:
no known drug allergies
Psychosocial History:
does not smoke
drinks up to three glasses of wine weekly
Physical Examination
Temp Pulse Resp BP O2 Sat Ht Wt BMI
37°C
(98.6°F)
65/min 15/min 108/62 mm Hg –
173 cm
(5 ft 8 in)
54 kg
(119 lb)
18 kg/m2
Appearance: no acute distress
Pulmonary: clear to auscultation
Cardiac: regular rate and rhythm; normal S1 and S2; no murmurs, rubs, or gallops
Abdominal: thin; no tenderness, guarding, masses, bruits, or hepatosplenomegaly
Extremities: no joint erythema, edema, or warmth; dorsalis pedis, radial, and femoral pulses intact
Musculoskeletal: diffuse tenderness to palpation over the right anterior knee, worse with full extension of the knee; no associated effusion or erythema; full, symmetric strength of quadriceps, hip abductors, and hip external rotators; crepitus with knee range of motion; antalgic gait
Neurologic: alert and oriented; cranial nerves grossly intact; no focal neurologic deficits"

Question:
"Patient Information
Age: 23 years
Gender: F, self-identified
Ethnicity: unspecified
Site of Care: office
History
Reason for Visit/Chief Concern: “I can't run anymore because my knee hurts.”
History of Present Illness:
2-day history of right knee pain
pain is localized “somewhere under the kneecap”
pain is achy; rated 5/10; increases to 8/10 with prolonged sitting
reports an occasional “popping” sound and sensation when she rises from a seated position
no history of trauma to the knee
Past Medical History:
right clavicular fracture 2 years ago, treated with a shoulder sling
Medications:
multivitamin
Allergies:
no known drug allergies
Psychosocial History:
does not smoke
drinks up to three glasses of wine weekly
Physical Examination
Temp Pulse Resp BP O2 Sat Ht Wt BMI
37°C
(98.6°F)
65/min 15/min 108/62 mm Hg –
173 cm
(5 ft 8 in)
54 kg
(119 lb)
18 kg/m2
Appearance: no acute distress
Pulmonary: clear to auscultation
Cardiac: regular rate and rhythm; normal S1 and S2; no murmurs, rubs, or gallops
Abdominal: thin; no tenderness, guarding, masses, bruits, or hepatosplenomegaly
Extremities: no joint erythema, edema, or warmth; dorsalis pedis, radial, and femoral pulses intact
Musculoskeletal: diffuse tenderness to palpation over the right anterior knee, worse with full extension of the knee; no associated effusion or erythema; full, symmetric strength of quadriceps, hip abductors, and hip external rotators; crepitus with knee range of motion; antalgic gait
Neurologic: alert and oriented; cranial nerves grossly intact; no focal neurologic deficits"

Answer: Pain control and rest


Context: A 12-month-old boy is brought to the physician by his parents for a 4-week history of fever, malaise, cough, and difficulty breathing. He has had recurrent episodes of gastroenteritis since birth. Cardiopulmonary examination shows subcostal retractions and crackles bilaterally. There is enlargement of the cervical, axillary, and inguinal lymph nodes. An x-ray of the chest shows bilateral consolidations. A sputum culture shows colonies of Burkholderia cepacia. A blood sample is obtained and after the addition of nitroblue tetrazolium to the sample, neutrophils remain colorless. A defect in which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Question: A defect in which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: NADPH oxidase complex


Context: A 4-year-old boy is brought to the pediatrician by his mother who is concerned about progressive leg weakness. His mother reports that the patient used to play outside with their neighbors for hours, but for the past few months she has seen him sitting on the sidewalk after 15 minutes because he’s too tired. The patient says his legs are “sleepy.” The patient’s mother has also had to remove the carpets from the house because the patient kept tripping over the edges. The mother reports that the patient is shy but cooperates well with his siblings and other children. He can say his first and last name and just started counting. His mother states he learned to fully walk by 15 months of age. He was hospitalized for bronchiolitis at 12 months of age, which resolved with supportive care. He had an uncomplicated orchiopexy surgery for undescended testes at 7 months of age. He has no other chronic medical conditions and takes no medications. He is up to date on his vaccinations including a flu vaccine 2 weeks ago. The patient’s mother has systemic lupus erythematous and his paternal uncle has dermatomyositis. On physical examination, bilateral calves are large in circumference compared to the thighs. Strength is 3/5 in bilateral quadriceps and 4/5 in bilateral calves. Sensation is intact. Achilles tendon reflexes are 1+ bilaterally. The patient can hop on one leg, but gets tired after 10 jumps. He has a slight waddling gait. Which of the following is the most appropriate test to confirm the diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate test to confirm the diagnosis?

Answer: Genetic testing


Context: A 22-year-old female is brought to the emergency department by her friends. She was supposed to attend her first job interview in a few hours when she started having palpitations. Her past medical history is insignificant, and she currently takes no medications. Her vitals show the following: pulse rate is 90/min, respiratory rate is 28/min, and blood pressure is 136/86 mm Hg. Her ECG is normal. What will be the patient’s approximate alveolar carbon dioxide pressure (PACO2) given her normal respiratory rate is 14/min and PACO2 is 36 mm Hg? Ignore dead space and assume carbon dioxide production is constant.

Question: Ignore dead space and assume carbon dioxide production is constant.

Answer: 18 mm Hg


Context: A 68-year-old man with hypertension comes to the physician because of fatigue and difficulty initiating urination. He wakes up several times a night to urinate. He does not take any medications. His blood pressure is 166/82 mm Hg. Digital rectal examination shows a firm, non-tender, and uniformly enlarged prostate. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy?

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

Answer: Terazosin


Context: A 51-year-old woman comes to the physician because of numbness of her legs and toes for 3 months. She has also had fatigue and occasional shortness of breath for the past 5 months. She is a painter. Examination shows pale conjunctivae. Sensation to vibration and position is absent over the lower extremities. She has a broad-based gait. The patient sways when she stands with her feet together and closes her eyes. Which of the following laboratory findings is most likely to be seen in this patient?

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

Answer:
Elevated methylmalonic acid levels
"


Context: A 38-year-old woman makes an appointment with her family physician for a routine check-up after being away due to travel for 1 year. She recently had a screening Pap smear, which was negative for malignancy. Her past medical history is significant for a Pap smear 2 years ago that reported a low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL). A subsequent colposcopy diagnosed low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2). The patient is surprised by the differences in her diagnostic tests. You explain to her the basis for the difference and reassure her. With this in mind, which of the following HPV serotypes is most likely to be present in the patient?

Question: With this in mind, which of the following HPV serotypes is most likely to be present in the patient?

Answer: HPV 6


Context: A 19-year-old collegiate football player sustains an injury to his left knee during a game. He was running with the ball when he dodged a defensive player and fell, twisting his left knee. He felt a “pop” as he fell. When he attempts to bear weight on his left knee, it feels unstable, and "gives way." He needs assistance to walk off the field. The pain is localized diffusely over the knee and is non-radiating. His past medical history is notable for asthma. He uses an albuterol inhaler as needed. He does not smoke or drink alcohol. On exam, he has a notable suprapatellar effusion. Range of motion is limited in the extremes of flexion. When the proximal tibia is pulled anteriorly while the knee is flexed and the patient is supine, there is 1.5 centimeter of anterior translation. The contralateral knee translates 0.5 centimeters with a similar force. The injured structure in this patient originates on which of the following bony landmarks?

Question: The injured structure in this patient originates on which of the following bony landmarks?

Answer: Posteromedial aspect of the lateral femoral condyle


Context: A 65-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband due to difficulty speaking and confusion for 1 hour. She was gardening when she suddenly developed these symptoms. She is not able to respond to the questions despite multiple repetitions. She also appears unsteady with her gait and is able to walk with support. The past medical history includes type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and osteoarthritis. The medicine list includes aspirin, atorvastatin, metformin, and chondroitin sulfate. The vital signs include: blood pressure 174/88 mm Hg, heart rate 154/min and irregular, respiratory rate 12/min, and oxygen saturation 96% on room air. She is awake, but not following commands. The pupils are equal bilaterally and reactive to light. There is mild facial droop on the right side. The forehead wrinkles are preserved. When the soles of her feet are stimulated with a blunt instrument, the right-sided big toe goes upward, while the left-sided big toe goes downward. The ECG shows variable R-R intervals and absent of P waves. What is the next step in the management of this patient?

Question: What is the next step in the management of this patient?

Answer: CT scan of the head


Context: A 45-year-old man presents to the physician with a complaint of recurrent chest pain for the last 2 weeks. He mentions that the pain is not present at rest, but when he walks for some distance, he feels pain like a pressure over the retrosternal region. The pain disappears within a few minutes of stopping the physical activity. He is an otherwise healthy man with no known medical disorder. He does not smoke or have any known dependence. There is no family history of ischemic heart disease or vascular disorder. On physical examination, his vital signs, including blood pressure, are normal. The diagnosis of coronary artery disease due to atherosclerosis is made. Which of the following is known to be an infection associated with this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following is known to be an infection associated with this patient’s condition?

Answer: Chlamydophila pneumoniae


Context: An investigator is studying cellular repair mechanisms in various tissues. One of the samples being reviewed is from the anterior horn of the spinal cord of a patient who was involved in a snowboard accident. Pathologic examination of the biopsy specimen shows dispersion of the Nissl bodies, swelling of the neuronal body, and a displacement of the nucleus to the periphery in numerous cells. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the observed findings?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the observed findings?

Answer: Central chromatolysis


Context: Fertilization begins when sperm binds to the corona radiata of the egg. Once the sperm enters the cytoplasm, a cortical reaction occurs which prevents other sperm from entering the oocyte. The oocyte then undergoes an important reaction. What is the next reaction that is necessary for fertilization to continue?

Question: What is the next reaction that is necessary for fertilization to continue?

Answer: The second meiotic division


Context: A 67-year-old man presents to his primary care provider with bloody urine. He first noticed the blood 1 week ago. He otherwise feels healthy. His past medical history is significant for type 2 diabetes mellitus for 18 years, for which he takes insulin injections. He has smoked 30–40 cigarettes per day for the past 29 years and drinks alcohol socially. Today his vital signs include: temperature 36.6°C (97.8°F), blood pressure 135/82 mm Hg, and heart rate 105/min. There are no findings on physical examination. Urinalysis shows 15–20 red cells/high power field. Which of the following is the next best test to evaluate this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following is the next best test to evaluate this patient’s condition?

Answer: Contrast-enhanced CT


Context: A previously healthy 19-year-old woman comes to the physician because of vaginal discharge for 3 days. She describes the discharge as yellow and mucopurulent with a foul odor. She has also noticed vaginal bleeding after sexual activity. She has not had any itching or irritation. Her last menstrual period was 2 weeks ago. She is sexually active with one male partner, and they use condoms inconsistently. A rapid urine hCG test is negative. Her temperature is 37.3°C (99.1°F), pulse is 88/min, and blood pressure is 108/62 mm Hg. Pelvic examination shows a friable cervix. Speculum examination is unremarkable. A wet mount shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic test?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic test?

Answer:
Nucleic acid amplification test
"


Context: A 35-year-old man with no past medical history presents to his primary care physician with complaints of fatigue. He states that his life has been hectic lately and that everything seems to be falling apart. He is scared that he will lose his job, that his wife will leave him, and that his children will not be able to afford to go to college. His worries are severe enough that they have began to interfere with his daily activities. His wife is also present and states that he has a very secure job and that they are well off financially. She says that he has always worried about something since she met him years ago. What medication would benefit this patient long term?

Question: What medication would benefit this patient long term?

Answer: Escitalopram


Context: A 34-year-old man comes to the physician because of blurry vision and fatigue for 2 months. During this period, he has also had occasional bleeding from his gums after brushing his teeth. One month ago, he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis after returning from an overseas business meeting. His pulse is 118/min, respirations are 19/min, and blood pressure is 149/91 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 97%. Examination shows bluish discoloration of the lips. The tip of the spleen is palpable 1 cm below the left costal margin. Sensory examination of the hands shows paresthesia. Hemoglobin concentration is 18 g/dL, hematocrit is 65%, leukocytes are 15,000/μL, and platelets are 470,000/μL. His serum erythropoietin concentration is decreased. Activation of which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?

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

Answer: Nonreceptor tyrosine kinase


Context:
A 23-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by emergency medical services. She was found trying to hang herself in her kitchen. The patient has a past medical history of drug abuse, alcoholism, anxiety, mania, irritable bowel syndrome, and hypertension. Her current medications include naltrexone, sodium docusate, and clonazepam as needed. Her temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), blood pressure is 100/65 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, respirations are 15/min, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. On physical exam, you note a teary young woman. There are multiple bilateral superficial cuts along her wrists. The patient's cardiac and pulmonary exams are within normal limits. Neurological exam reveals a patient who is alert and oriented. The patient claims that you cannot send her home because if you do she will kill herself. Laboratory values are ordered and return as below.

Hemoglobin: 15 g/dL
Hematocrit: 40%
Leukocyte count: 4,500 cells/mm^3 with normal differential
Platelet count: 197,500/mm^3

Serum:
Na+: 139 mEq/L
Cl-: 102 mEq/L
K+: 4.4 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 90 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.0 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.2 mg/dL
AST: 12 U/L
ALT: 10 U/L

The patient is transferred to the crisis intervention unit. Which of the following is the best next step in management?

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

Answer: Lamotrigine


Context: A 6-year-old girl is brought to the physician because of a 4-day history of irritation and redness in both eyes. Her symptoms initially started in the left eye and progressed to involve both eyes within 24 hours. She presents with profuse tearing and reports that her eyes are sticky and difficult to open in the morning. She was diagnosed with asthma 2 years ago and has been admitted to the hospital for acute exacerbations 3 times since then. Current medications include inhaled beclomethasone, inhaled albuterol, and montelukast. Her temperature is 38.2 °C (100.8°F). Physical examination reveals a tender left preauricular lymph node. There is chemosis and diffuse erythema of the bulbar conjunctiva bilaterally. Slit lamp examination reveals a follicular reaction in both palpebral conjunctivae and diffuse, fine epithelial keratitis of both corneas. Corneal sensation is normal. 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: Supportive therapy


Context: A 55-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 4-month history of a painless lump on her neck. Examination shows a hard nodule on the left side of her neck. A fine-needle aspiration biopsy shows well-differentiated cuboidal cells arranged spherically around colloid. She undergoes thyroidectomy. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimen shows invasion of the thyroid capsule and blood vessels. Which of the following cellular events is most likely involved in the pathogenesis of this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following cellular events is most likely involved in the pathogenesis of this patient's condition?

Answer: PAX8-PPAR gamma gene rearrangement


Context: A 61-year-old man sustains an intracranial injury to a nerve that also passes through the parotid gland. Which of the following is a possible consequence of this injury?

Question: Which of the following is a possible consequence of this injury?

Answer: Changes in hearing


Context:
A 10-month-old boy is admitted to the pediatric intensive care ward because of progressive dyspnea and fever. For the past 2 weeks, he was unsuccessfully treated for an upper respiratory tract infection with ampicillin. He has a history of neonatal sepsis, frequent respiratory tract infections since the age of 3 months, and recurrent otitis media. He was born full-term vaginally to a consanguineous couple from an uncomplicated pregnancy. He received routine immunizations until 6 months of age. The patient’s vital signs are as follows: blood pressure is 70/40 mm Hg, heart rate is 138/min, respiratory rate is 39/min, and temperature is 39.5℃ (103.1 ℉). Physical examination reveals cyanosis, nasal flare, intercostal retractions, and bilaterally decreased breath sounds with crackles heard over the lower lobes on auscultation. The chest X-ray confirms bilateral lower lobe pneumonia. The blood count shows the following findings:
Erythrocytes 4.1 x 106/mm3
Hgb 13 g/dL
Total leukocyte count  41,100/mm3
Neutrophils 74%
Lymphocytes 14%
Eosinophils 2%
Monocytes 10%
Basophils 0%
Platelet count 210,000/mm3
The patient is diagnosed with bilateral community-acquired lower lobe pneumonia and prescribed antibiotics. An immunological workup is performed to assess the patient’s immunity:
Measurement Result Normal range
Antibodies
Total serum IgG 22.0 mg/dL  231–1,411 mg/dL
Serum IgA 59.3 mg/dL 0–83 mg/dL
Serum IgM 111.9 mg/dL 0–145 mg/dL
Lymphocyte flow cytometry
CD3+ cells 2.2% 60–85%
CD19+ cells 95.1% 8–20%
CD16/CD56+ cells  0.1% 3–30%
Which of the following procedures is the option of choice for the further management of this patient?

Question:
An immunological workup is performed to assess the patient’s immunity:
Measurement Result Normal range
Antibodies
Total serum IgG 22.0 mg/dL  231–1,411 mg/dL
Serum IgA 59.3 mg/dL 0–83 mg/dL
Serum IgM 111.9 mg/dL 0–145 mg/dL
Lymphocyte flow cytometry
CD3+ cells 2.2% 60–85%
CD19+ cells 95.1% 8–20%
CD16/CD56+ cells  0.1% 3–30%
Which of the following procedures is the option of choice for the further management of this patient?

Answer: Bone marrow transplantation


Context:
A 50-year-old man arrives to the clinic complaining of progressive weakness. He explains that for 3 months he has had difficulty climbing the stairs, which has now progressed to difficulty getting out of a chair. He denies diplopia, dysphagia, dyspnea, muscle aches, or joint pains. He denies weight loss, weight gain, change in appetite, or heat or cold intolerance. He reports intermittent low-grade fevers. He has a medical history significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia. He has taken simvastatin and losartan daily for the past 6 years. His temperature is 99.0°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 135/82 mmHg, and pulse is 76/min. Cardiopulmonary examination is normal. The abdomen is soft, non-tender, non-distended, and without hepatosplenomegaly. Muscle strength is 3/5 in the hip flexors and 4/5 in the deltoids, biceps, triceps, patellar, and Achilles tendon reflexes are 2+ and symmetric. Sensation to pain, light touch, and vibration are intact. Gait is cautious, but grossly normal. There is mild muscle tenderness of his thighs and upper extremities. There is no joint swelling or erythema and no skin rashes. A complete metabolic panel is within normal limits. Additional lab work is obtained as shown below:

Serum:
Na+: 141 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 4.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 23 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen: 18 mg/dL
Glucose: 128 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.0 mg/dL
Alkaline phosphatase: 69 U/L
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): 302 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): 210 U/L
TSH: 6.9 uU/mL
Thyroxine (T4): 5.8 ug/dL
Creatine kinase: 4300 U/L
C-reactive protein: 11.9 mg/L
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate: 37 mm/h

Which of the following is the most accurate diagnostic test?

Question:
Additional lab work is obtained as shown below:

Serum:
Na+: 141 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 4.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 23 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen: 18 mg/dL
Glucose: 128 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.0 mg/dL
Alkaline phosphatase: 69 U/L
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): 302 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): 210 U/L
TSH: 6.9 uU/mL
Thyroxine (T4): 5.8 ug/dL
Creatine kinase: 4300 U/L
C-reactive protein: 11.9 mg/L
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate: 37 mm/h

Which of the following is the most accurate diagnostic test?

Answer: Muscle biopsy


Context: A 40-year-old man presents with an episode of rectal bleeding. He is concerned because his mother died of colorectal cancer at 50 years of age. He has no further information about his family history. Physical examination and digital rectal examination are normal. He undergoes a colonoscopy and is found to have innumerable adenomas in the left side of the colon ranging in size from 4–15 mm. Which of the following is the most likely underlying mechanism of this patient illness?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely underlying mechanism of this patient illness?

Answer: Mutations of the APC gene


Context: A 28-year-old man presents to his physician with a history of excessive thirst and excessive urination over the last 3 weeks. He mentions that he has to wake up multiple times at night to urinate. A detailed history reveals that he has a known case of bipolar mood disorder and has been taking lithium carbonate for 5 years. His urinary specific gravity is 1.003, and his urinary osmolality is 150 mOsm/kg H2O. Which of the following Darrow-Yannet diagrams best describes the status of volumes and osmolality of this man’s body fluids?

Question: Which of the following Darrow-Yannet diagrams best describes the status of volumes and osmolality of this man’s body fluids?

Answer: Image 2


Context: An 8-year-old African American girl is brought to the clinic by her mother for her regular blood exchange. They come in every 2–3 months for the procedure. The child is in good health with no symptoms. Her last trip to the emergency department was 6 months ago due to bone pain. She was treated with morphine and oxygen and a blood transfusion. She takes hydroxyurea and a multivitamin with iron every day. She has an uncle that also has to get blood exchanges. Today, her heart rate is 90/min, respiratory rate is 17/min, blood pressure is 110/65 mm Hg, and temperature is 37.0°C (98.6°F). She calmly waits for the machine to be set up and catheters inserted into both of her arms. She watches a movie as her blood is slowly replaced with 6 L of red blood cells. Based on this history, which of the following mechanisms most likely explains this patient’s condition?

Question: Based on this history, which of the following mechanisms most likely explains this patient’s condition?

Answer: Amino acid substitution


Context: A 75-year-old woman presents to the emergency department because of a brief loss of consciousness, slurred speech, and facial numbness. Family members report that she complained about feeling chest pain and shortness of breath while on her morning walk. Medical history is noncontributory. Physical examination shows decreased pupil reactivity to light and hemiplegic gait. Her pulse is 120/min, respirations are 26/min, temperature is 36.7°C (98.0°F), and blood pressure is 160/80 mm Hg. On heart auscultation, S1 is loud, widely split, and there is a diastolic murmur. Transthoracic echocardiography in a 4-chamber apical view revealed a large oval-shaped and sessile left atrial mass. Which of the following is the most likely complication of this patient's condition?

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

Answer: Mitral valve obstruction


Context: A 40-year-old man presents to the office with complaints of fatigue and difficulty breathing for the past few weeks. He also complains of early morning stiffness of his metatarsophalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints on both sides that lasts for 2 hours. He feels better only after a warm water tub bath every day in the morning. He denies noticing any kind of rash on his body. He has been working in the shipbuilding industry for 20 years. He loves skin tanning and hunting in summer. He smokes 2 packs of cigarettes every day and has been doing so for the past 15 years. His pulmonary function test shows reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio with a reduction of both FEV1 and FEV1 and decreased diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO). His chest X-ray shows multiple nodules with calcification. Which of the following antibodies will most likely be present in this patient that is very specific to the condition he has?

Question: Which of the following antibodies will most likely be present in this patient that is very specific to the condition he has?

Answer: Anti-CCP


Context: A 29-year-old man presents to clinic with a complaint of fatigue that has developed over the past 6 months. Upon questioning, he endorses abdominal pain, non-bloody diarrhea, and decreased appetite over the past year. He denies recent travel outside of the country or eating uncooked meats. On exam, his temperature is 99.0°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 126/78 mmHg, pulse is 93/min, and respirations are 12/min. Notably, the abdominal exam is unremarkable aside from some tenderness to palpation near the umbilicus. His colonoscopy demonstrates perianal inflammation with a normal rectum, and biopsies of suspicious lesions in the transverse colon reveal transmural inflammation. Which one of the following is most strongly associated with the patient’s condition?

Question: Which one of the following is most strongly associated with the patient’s condition?

Answer: Kidney stones


Context: A 37-year-old male presents to your clinic with shortness of breath and lower extremity edema. He was born in Southeast Asia and emigrated to America ten years prior. Examination demonstrates 2+ pitting edema to the level of his knees, ascites, and bibasilar crackles, as well as an opening snap followed by a mid-to-late diastolic murmur. The patient undergoes a right heart catheterization that demonstrates a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) of 24 mmHg. The patient is most likely to have which of the following?

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

Answer: Normal or decreased left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP)


Context: A 67-year-old man comes to the physician for a follow-up examination after he was diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma. The physician recommends a chemotherapeutic regimen containing bortezomib. Which of the following best describes the effect of this drug?

Question: Which of the following best describes the effect of this drug?

Answer: Accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins


Context:
A 57-year-old man presents for his yearly wellness visit. He says he has been feeling well and has no complaints. No significant past medical history or current medications. The patient reports a 35-pack-year smoking history but says he quit 5 years ago. His family history is significant for lung cancer in his father who died at age 67. His vital signs include: temperature 36.8°C (98.2°F), pulse 95/min, respiratory rate 16/min, blood pressure 100/75 mm Hg. Physical examination is unremarkable. Laboratory findings are significant for the following:
Serum potassium 3.9 mEq/L
Serum sodium 140 mEq/L
Serum chloride 103 mEq/L
Serum calcium 2.5 mmol/L
BUN 15 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Glucose 95 mg/dL
Magnesium 1.7 mEq/L
Phosphate 1.1 mmol/L
Hemoglobin 14 g/dL
Bicarbonate (HCO3-) 25 mEq/L
Bilirubin, total 0.9 mg/dL
Bilirubin, indirect 0.4 mg/dL
AST 10 U/L
ALT 19 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase 40 U/L
Albumin 3.6 g/dL
Which of the following preventative screening tests is recommended for this patient at this time?

Question:
Laboratory findings are significant for the following:
Serum potassium 3.9 mEq/L
Serum sodium 140 mEq/L
Serum chloride 103 mEq/L
Serum calcium 2.5 mmol/L
BUN 15 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL
Glucose 95 mg/dL
Magnesium 1.7 mEq/L
Phosphate 1.1 mmol/L
Hemoglobin 14 g/dL
Bicarbonate (HCO3-) 25 mEq/L
Bilirubin, total 0.9 mg/dL
Bilirubin, indirect 0.4 mg/dL
AST 10 U/L
ALT 19 U/L
Alkaline phosphatase 40 U/L
Albumin 3.6 g/dL
Which of the following preventative screening tests is recommended for this patient at this time?

Answer: Low-dose CT scan (LDCT) of the chest


Context: A 49-year-old woman presents to her physician with a fever accompanied by chills and burning micturition since the past 5 days. She is an otherwise healthy woman with no significant past medical history and has an active sexual life. On physical examination, her temperature is 39.4°C (103.0°F), pulse rate is 90/min, blood pressure is 122/80 mm Hg, and respiratory rate is 14/min. Examination of the abdomen and genitourinary region do not reveal any specific positive findings. The physician orders a urinalysis of fresh unspun urine for this patient which shows 25 WBCs/mL of urine. The physician prescribes an empirical antibiotic and other medications for symptom relief. He also orders a bacteriological culture of her urine. After 48 hours of treatment, the woman returns to the physician to report that her symptoms have not improved. The bacteriological culture report indicates the growth of gram-negative bacilli which are lactose-negative and indole-negative, which produce a substance that hydrolyzes urea to produce ammonia. Which of the following bacteria is the most likely cause of infection in the woman?

Question: Which of the following bacteria is the most likely cause of infection in the woman?

Answer: Proteus mirabilis


Context: A 72-year-old man presents to his primary care physician with progressively worsening hearing loss. He states that his trouble with hearing began approximately 7-8 years ago. He is able to hear when someone is speaking to him; however, he has difficulty with understanding what is being said, especially when there is background noise. In addition to his current symptoms, he reports a steady ringing in both ears, and at times experiences dizziness. Medical history is significant for three prior episodes of acute otitis media. Family history is notable for his father being diagnosed with cholesteatoma. His temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 138/88 mmHg, pulse is 14/min, and respirations are 13/min. On physical exam, when a tuning fork is placed in the middle of the patient's forehead, sound is appreciated equally on both ears. When a tuning fork is placed by the external auditory canal and subsequently on the mastoid process, air conduction is greater than bone conduction. Which of the following is most likely the cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Cochlear hair cell degeneration


Context: An investigator is studying the molecular structure of various proteinogenic L-amino acids. The structure of one of the amino acids being studied is shown. The derivative of this amino acid is most likely to cause which of the following effects in the human body?

Question: The derivative of this amino acid is most likely to cause which of the following effects in the human body?

Answer: Peripheral vasodilation


Context: A 68-year-old man presents to his primary care physician with a 4-week history of back pain. He says that the pain does not appear to be associated with activity and is somewhat relieved by taking an NSAID. Furthermore, he says that he has had increasing difficulty trying to urinate. His past medical history is significant for kidney stones and a 30-pack-year smoking history. Radiographs reveal osteoblastic lesions in the spine. Which of the following drugs would most likely be effective in treating this patient's disease?

Question: Which of the following drugs would most likely be effective in treating this patient's disease?

Answer: Continuous leuprolide


Context: A 29-year-old woman presents with skin lesions on her elbows and forearms. She notes that they first started appearing 2 months ago and have not improved. She describes the lesions as painless and rarely itchy. She denies any similar symptoms in the past, and has no other significant past medical history. Review of systems is significant for recent joint pain, conjunctivitis, and corneal dryness. The patient is afebrile and vital signs are within normal limits. Non-tender, raised, inflamed, white-silver maculopapular lesions are present. Which of the following are the most likely histopathologic findings in this patient's skin biopsy?

Question: Which of the following are the most likely histopathologic findings in this patient's skin biopsy?

Answer: Basal cell hyperplasia, proliferation of subepidermal vasculature, and keratinization


Context: Two days after delivery, a newborn develops a red, irritated eye with yellow discharge. She was born at 39 weeks' gestation to a 28-year-old woman, gravida 1, para 1. Pregnancy and delivery were uncomplicated. The mother had not seen her gynecologist since her first prenatal visit. The newborn's temperature is 37.2°C (99.0°F), pulse is 140/min, respirations are 42/min, and blood pressure is 73/53 mm Hg. Ophthalmic examination shows eyelid edema, conjunctival injection, and copious yellow mucopurulent discharge from the right eye. There is no corneal ulceration or evidence of keratitis. Funduscopic examination is normal. The diagnosis is confirmed and appropriate treatment is administered. Which of the following is most likely to have prevented this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is most likely to have prevented this patient's condition?

Answer: Topical erythromycin administered to the infant


Context: A 16-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department after losing consciousness. He had no preceding chest pain or palpitations. His father has cataracts and had frontal balding in his twenties but has no history of cardiac disease. His paternal grandfather also had early-onset balding. His pulse is 43/min. Physical examination shows frontal hair loss, temporal muscle wasting, and testicular atrophy. Neurologic examination shows bilateral foot drop and weakness of the intrinsic hand muscles. An ECG shows bradycardia with third-degree atrioventricular block. The severity of this patient's symptoms compared to that of his father is most likely due to which of the following genetic properties?

Question: The severity of this patient's symptoms compared to that of his father is most likely due to which of the following genetic properties?

Answer: Anticipation


Context: A 32-year-old primigravida at 35 weeks gestation seeks evaluation at the emergency department for swelling and redness of the left calf, which started 2 hours ago. She reports that the pain has worsened since the onset. The patient denies a history of insect bites or trauma. She has never experienced something like this in the past. Her pregnancy has been uneventful so far. She does not use alcohol, tobacco, or any illicit drugs. She does not take any medications other than prenatal vitamins. Her temperature is 36.8℃ (98.2℉), the blood pressure is 105/60 mm Hg, the pulse is 110/min, and the respirations are 15/min. The left calf is edematous with the presence of erythema. The skin feels warm and pain is elicited with passive dorsiflexion of the foot. The femoral, popliteal, and pedal pulses are palpable bilaterally. An abdominal examination reveals a fundal height consistent with the gestational age. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. The patient is admitted to the hospital and appropriate treatment is initiated. Which of the following hormones is most likely implicated in the development of this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following hormones is most likely implicated in the development of this patient’s condition?

Answer: Estriol


Context: A 26-year-old nurse at 8 weeks of gestation presents to the physician with low-grade fever and body ache for the past 2 days. She also complains of a fine pink and itchy rash that appeared 2 nights ago. The rash 1st appeared on her face and spread to her neck. Past medical history is noncontributory. She takes prenatal vitamins with folate every day. She has had many sick contacts while working in the hospital. Additionally, her daughter has had several colds over the last few months. On examination, the temperature is 38.3°C (100.9°F), she has a fine macular rash on her face and neck with focal macules on her chest. Palpation of the neck reveals lymphadenopathy in the posterior auricular nodes. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

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

Answer: Test for rubella antibodies in her blood


Context: A 55-year-old man with a history of fatigue and exertional dyspnea presents to the urgent care clinic following an acute upper respiratory illness. On physical examination, his pulses are bounding, his complexion is very pale, and scleral icterus is apparent. The spleen is moderately enlarged. Oxygen saturation is 79% at rest, with a new oxygen requirement of 9 L by a non-rebreather mask. Laboratory analysis results show a hemoglobin level of 6.8 g/dL. Of the following options, which hypersensitivity reaction does this condition represent?

Question: Of the following options, which hypersensitivity reaction does this condition represent?

Answer: Type II–cytotoxic hypersensitivity reaction


Context: A 57-year-old HIV-positive male with a history of intravenous drug abuse presents to the emergency room complaining of arm swelling. He reports that he developed progressively worsening swelling and tenderness over the right antecubital fossa three days prior. He recently returned from a trip to Nicaragua. His past medical history is notable for an anaphylactoid reaction to vancomycin. His temperature is 101.4°F (38.6°C), blood pressure is 140/70 mmHg, pulse is 110/min, and respirations are 20/min. Physical examination reveals an erythematous, fluctuant, and tender mass overlying the right antecubital fossa. Multiple injection marks are noted across both upper extremities. He undergoes incision and drainage and is started on an antibiotic that targets the 50S ribosome. He is discharged with plans to follow up in one week. However, five days later he presents to the same emergency room complaining of abdominal cramps and watery diarrhea. Which of the following classes of pathogens is most likely responsible for this patient’s current symptoms?

Question: Which of the following classes of pathogens is most likely responsible for this patient’s current symptoms?

Answer: Gram-positive bacillus


Context:
A 69-year-old male presents to the emergency department for slurred speech and an inability to use his right arm which occurred while he was eating dinner. The patient arrived at the emergency department within one hour. A CT scan was performed of the head and did not reveal any signs of hemorrhage. The patient is given thrombolytics and is then managed on the neurology floor. Three days later, the patient is recovering and is stable. He seems depressed but is doing well with his symptoms gradually improving as compared to his initial presentation. The patient complains of neck pain that has worsened slowly over the past few days for which he is being given ibuprofen. Laboratory values are ordered and return as indicated below:

Serum:
Na+: 130 mEq/L
K+: 3.7 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen: 7 mg/dL
Glucose: 70 mg/dL
Creatinine: 0.9 mg/dL
Ca2+: 9.7 mg/dL

Urine:
Appearance: dark
Glucose: negative
WBC: 0/hpf
Bacterial: none
Na+: 320 mEq/L/24 hours

His temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), pulse is 95/min, blood pressure is 129/70 mmHg, respirations are 10/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Which of the following is the best next step in management?

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

Answer: Fluid restriction


Context: A 70-year-old man with a 2 year history of Alzheimer disease presents is brought in from his nursing facility with altered mental status and recurrent falls during the past few days. Current medications include donepezil and galantamine. His vital signs are as follows: temperature 36.0°C (96.8°F), blood pressure 90/60 mm Hg, heart rate 102/min, respiratory rate 22/min. Physical examination reveals several lacerations on his head and extremities. He is oriented only to the person. Urine and blood cultures are positive for E. coli. The patient is admitted and initial treatment with IV fluids, antibiotics, and subcutaneous prophylactic heparin. On the second day of hospitalization, diffuse bleeding from venipuncture sites and wounds is observed. His blood test results show thrombocytopenia, prolonged PT and PTT, and a positive D-dimer. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient’s condition?

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

Answer: Cryoprecipitate, FFP and low dose SC heparin


Context: A 59-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department for the confusion. She was in her usual state of health until about 2 hours ago when she was found trying to cook a frozen pizza in her medicine cabinet. She also complained to her husband that she had a terrible headache. Her past medical history is notable for hypertension, which has been difficult to control on multiple medications. Her temperature is 37.1°C (98.8°F), the pulse is 75/min, and the blood pressure is 202/128 mm Hg. On physical exam, she is alert and oriented only to self. The physical exam is otherwise unremarkable and the neurologic exam shows no focal neurological deficits. Noncontrast CT head imaging is unremarkable; a T2-weighted image from the patient’s MRI brain scan is shown. Which of the following is the next best step in management for this patient?

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

Answer: IV nicardipine


Context: A 22-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by his father because he is having bizarre thoughts. The patient says that he is being haunted by aliens from outer space. The father is worried as his son has had these symptoms for the past 7 months and lately, it seems to be getting worse. He has become more self-obsessed and does not seem to have any interest in his favorite activities. He has no plans to harm himself or others but spends a lot of time and energy building ‘defenses’ in and around his room as he is absolutely sure that aliens will come to get him soon. His blood pressure is 121/79 mm Hg, pulse 86/min, respiratory rate 15/min, temperature 36.8°C (98.2°F). Which of the following is correct regarding the patient’s symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is correct regarding the patient’s symptoms?

Answer: He has a fixed false belief.


Context: A family doctor in a rural area is treating a patient for dyspepsia. The patient had chronic heartburn and abdominal pain for the last 2 months and peptic ulcer disease due to a suspected H. pylori infection. For reasons relating to affordability and accessibility, the doctor decides to perform a diagnostic test in the office that is less invasive and more convenient. Which of the following is the most likely test used?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely test used?

Answer: Serology (ELISA testing)


Context: A 32-year-old man comes to the physician with difficulty swallowing for several weeks. Examination of the oropharynx shows lesions on palate and tongue that can be easily scraped off. An image of the lesions is shown. Which of the following is a risk factor for this patient's findings?

Question: Which of the following is a risk factor for this patient's findings?

Answer: Decline in CD4+ T-cells


Context: A 7-year-old boy presents with difficult left eye-opening in the morning, eye discharge, and irritation. These symptoms developed gradually over the past week. He attends a primary school where recently an outbreak of tonsillitis took place. He had otitis media 2 weeks ago treated with ampicillin. At the presentation, the patient’s vital signs are within normal limits. Eye examination reveals bulbar conjunctival injection, mild eyelid edema, and a moderate mucopurulent discharge with crusts on the lower eyelid. There is no corneal or eyelid ulceration. No lymphadenopathy is noted. Which of the following investigations should be performed to establish a diagnosis before the treatment?

Question: Which of the following investigations should be performed to establish a diagnosis before the treatment?

Answer: No investigations are required in this case


Context: A 32 year-old African American man with a past medical history of sickle cell anemia presents to his primary care physician for a routine check-up. He has no complaints. His physician notes that he likely has an increased susceptibility to infections with certain organisms. Which of the following patient groups has a similar pattern of increased susceptibility?

Question: Which of the following patient groups has a similar pattern of increased susceptibility?

Answer: C3 complement deficiency


Context: A 3175-g (7-lb) male newborn is delivered at 39 weeks' gestation to a 29-year-old primigravid woman following a spontaneous vaginal delivery. Apgar scores are 8 and 9 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. Cardiac examination in the delivery room shows a continuous machine-like murmur. An echocardiogram shows a structure with blood flow between the pulmonary artery and the aorta. This structure is most likely a derivate of which of the following?

Question: This structure is most likely a derivate of which of the following?

Answer: 6th aortic arch


Context:
A 27-year-old man with a past medical history of type I diabetes mellitus presents to the emergency department with altered mental status. The patient was noted as becoming more lethargic and confused over the past day, prompting his roommates to bring him in. His temperature is 99.0°F (37.2°C), blood pressure is 107/68 mmHg, pulse is 120/min, respirations are 17/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Laboratory values are ordered as seen below.

Serum:
Na+: 144 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 6.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 16 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 599 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.4 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.2 mg/dL

Which of the following is the appropriate endpoint of treatment for this patient?

Question:
Serum:
Na+: 144 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 6.3 mEq/L
HCO3-: 16 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 599 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.4 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.2 mg/dL

Which of the following is the appropriate endpoint of treatment for this patient?

Answer: Normal anion gap


Context: The drug cilostazol is known for its ability to relax vascular smooth muscle and therefore cause vasodilation through its inhibition of phosphodiesterase 3. Given this mechanism of action, what other effect would be expected?

Question: Given this mechanism of action, what other effect would be expected?

Answer: Positive inotropy


Context: A 43-year-old woman presents to her primary care provider with shortness of breath. She reports a 4-month history of progressively worsening difficulty breathing with associated occasional chest pain. She is a long-distance runner but has had trouble running recently due to her breathing difficulties. Her past medical history is notable for well-controlled hypertension for which she takes hydrochlorothiazide. She had a tibial osteosarcoma lesion with pulmonary metastases as a child and successfully underwent chemotherapy and surgical resection. She has a 10 pack-year smoking history but quit 15 years ago. She drinks a glass of wine 3 times per week. Her temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, pulse is 82/min, and respirations are 18/min. On exam, she has increased work of breathing with a normal S1 and loud P2. An echocardiogram in this patient would most likely reveal which of the following?

Question: An echocardiogram in this patient would most likely reveal which of the following?

Answer: Right ventricular hypertrophy with a dilated pulmonary artery


Context: A 23-year-old man presents to the physician with nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain for the past 24 hours. He has also developed difficulty in swallowing and blurring of vision. He also complains of significant dryness of his mouth and throat. When asked about his diet, he reports that he has been saving money by eating dented and old canned goods. On physical examination, his vital signs are stable. His neurologic examination reveals bilateral fixed dilated pupils, weakness of extraocular muscles, and weak gag reflex, while sensations and gait are normal. Laboratory evaluation of his stool isolates a toxin produced by gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming bacilli. Which of the following mechanisms best explains the action of the toxin?

Question: Which of the following mechanisms best explains the action of the toxin?

Answer: Blockade of release of acetylcholine at neuromuscular junctions


Context: A 55-year-old woman comes to the physician because of involuntary rhythmic shaking of both hands for several months. More recently, she also noticed involuntary head nodding movements. The shaking seems to improve after having one or two glasses of wine. Her father had similar symptoms starting at the age of 60. Neurologic examination shows a symmetric hand tremor that worsens with voluntary movement of the respective extremity. The most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's symptoms is also recommended for the treatment of which of the following conditions?

Question: The most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's symptoms is also recommended for the treatment of which of the following conditions?

Answer: Hyperthyroidism


Context:
A 72-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department 4 hours after the sudden onset of shortness of breath and dizziness. Her blood pressure is 88/56 mm Hg. Examination shows crackles at both lung bases and an S3 gallop. The extremities are cold to the touch. Serum studies show a urea nitrogen concentration of 15 mg/dL, a creatinine concentration of 1.0 mg/dL, and a lactic acid concentration of 6.4 mmol/L (N < 2). Arterial blood gas analysis on room air shows:
pH 7.27
pCO2 36 mm Hg
HCO3- 15 mEq/L
An ECG shows ST-segment elevation in the precordial leads. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's laboratory changes?"

Question: Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's laboratory changes?"

Answer: Accumulation of NADH


Context: A previously healthy 24-year-old woman comes to the physician because of fever, headache, myalgia, photophobia, and a nonproductive cough for 2 days. Three weeks ago, she received a parrot as a birthday present. Her temperature is 38.5°C (101.3°F). Pulmonary examination shows crackles at both lung bases. Her leukocyte count is 8,000/mm3. An x-ray of the chest shows diffuse patchy infiltrates that are most prominent in the lower lobes. Which of the following is the most likely causal organism?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely causal organism?

Answer: Chlamydophila psittaci


Context: A 71-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a headache for the past 30 minutes. She says that this is the worst headache of her life and that it came on suddenly after she hit her head. She says that she has also been experiencing visual problems with double vision when she looks to the left or the right. Visual examination reveals that her right eye cannot move right past the midline and her left eye cannot move left past the midline. Which of the following is most likely responsible for this patient's visual defects?

Question: Which of the following is most likely responsible for this patient's visual defects?

Answer: Central herniation


Context: A 58-year-old man comes to the physician because of intermittent throbbing headaches over the past year. The headaches are worse when he wakes up and are not accompanied by other symptoms. The patient also reports trouble concentrating on daily tasks at work. His wife has been complaining lately about his snoring during sleep, which he attributes to his chronic sinusitis. He has a history of hypertension and an allergy to dust mites. He has smoked a pack of cigarettes daily for 14 years. His pulse is 72/min and blood pressure is 150/95 mm Hg. He is 178 cm (5 ft 10 in) tall and weighs 120 kg (265 lb); BMI is 37.9 kg/m2. Neurological and cutaneous examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's hypertension?

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

Answer: Nocturnal upper airway obstruction


Context:
A 75-year-old man presents to the emergency department for abdominal pain. The patient states the pain started this morning and has been worsening steadily. He decided to come to the emergency department when he began vomiting. The patient has a past medical history of obesity, diabetes, alcohol abuse, and hypertension. His current medications include captopril, insulin, metformin, sodium docusate, and ibuprofen. His temperature is 104.0°F (40°C), blood pressure is 160/97 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, respirations are 15/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Abdominal exam reveals left lower quadrant tenderness. Cardiac exam reveals a crescendo systolic murmur heard best by the right upper sternal border. Lab values are ordered and return as below.

Hemoglobin: 15 g/dL
Hematocrit: 42%
Leukocyte count: 19,500 cells/mm^3 with normal differential
Platelet count: 226,000/mm^3

Serum:
Na+: 139 mEq/L
Cl-: 101 mEq/L
K+: 4.4 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
BUN: 22 mg/dL
Glucose: 144 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.2 mg/dL
Ca2+: 9.8 mg/dL

Which of the following is the most accurate test for this patient's condition?

Question:
Hemoglobin: 15 g/dL
Hematocrit: 42%
Leukocyte count: 19,500 cells/mm^3 with normal differential
Platelet count: 226,000/mm^3

Serum:
Na+: 139 mEq/L
Cl-: 101 mEq/L
K+: 4.4 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
BUN: 22 mg/dL
Glucose: 144 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.2 mg/dL
Ca2+: 9.8 mg/dL

Which of the following is the most accurate test for this patient's condition?

Answer: CT scan


Context: A 24-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by his brother because of a 3-hour history of lethargy and confusion. The brother says that 2 days ago, the patient ate several large-capped mushrooms he had foraged in the woods. After eating the mushrooms, he developed severe, bloody diarrhea that has since resolved. His pulse is 140/min, respirations are 26/min, and blood pressure is 98/62 mm Hg. Examination shows dry mucous membranes and tenderness to deep palpation in the right upper quadrant. Serum studies show a serum AST concentration of 2335 U/L and ALT concentration of 2294 U/L. Inhibition of which of the following processes is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Question: Inhibition of which of the following processes is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: Messenger RNA synthesis


Context: A 76-year-old man is brought to the hospital after having a stroke. Head CT is done in the emergency department and shows intracranial hemorrhage. Upon arrival to the ED he is verbally non-responsive and withdraws only to pain. He does not open his eyes. He is transferred to the medical ICU for further management and intubated for airway protection. During his second day in the ICU, his blood pressure is measured as 91/54 mmHg and pulse is 120/min. He is given fluids and antibiotics, but he progresses to renal failure and his mental status deteriorates. The physicians in the ICU ask the patient’s family what his wishes are for end-of-life care. His wife tells the team that she is durable power of attorney for the patient and provides appropriate documentation. She mentions that he did not have a living will, but she believes that he would want care withdrawn in this situation, and therefore asks the team to withdraw care at this point. The patient’s daughter vehemently disagrees and believes it is in the best interest of her father, the patient, to continue all care. Based on this information, what is the best course of action for the physician team?

Question: Based on this information, what is the best course of action for the physician team?

Answer: Listen to the patient’s wife’s wishes and withdraw care


Context: A 43-year-old woman walks into the clinic for an annual check-up appointment with her family physician. When asked about any changes in her life, she states that she lost her job about 6 months ago. Since then, she has lived with her boyfriend who is also unemployed. She frequently uses laxatives and takes some over the counter medications to help her sleep. Her blood pressure is 129/87 mm Hg, respirations are 12/min, pulse is 58/min, and temperature is 36.7°C (98.1°F). Her physical exam is mostly benign. Her pupils appear mildly constricted and she appears drowsy and subdued. The physician suspects that the physical findings in this patient are caused by a substance she is likely abusing. Which of the following is the substance?

Question: Which of the following is the substance?

Answer: Codeine


Context: A 42-year-old woman comes to the clinic with a complaint of a severely itchy and painful rash on her hands and legs for a day. On further questioning, she revealed that she loves nature and goes on trekking to the woods frequently. She just returned from a similar trip, 2 days ago. On physical examination, a prominent rash along with multiple blisters is noted on the ventral aspect of her right forearm. A photograph of the rash is shown. Which of the following is the most likely reaction that the patient is experiencing?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely reaction that the patient is experiencing?

Answer: Type IV hypersensitivity reaction


Context: A 6-year-old boy presents to his primary care physician with hip pain that started this morning. The patient claims the pain is severe and is stopping him from skateboarding. The patient recently recovered from a upper respiratory infection that he caught from his siblings but has otherwise been healthy. The patient has a past medical history of obesity. His temperature is 98.1°F (36.7°C), blood pressure is 100/55 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, respirations are 22/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. On physical exam, you note an obese boy in no acute distress. Cardiopulmonary exam is within normal limits. Inspection of the hip reveals no abnormalities or swelling. The hip exhibits a normal range of motion and physical exam only elicits minor pain. The patient's gait appears normal and pain is elicited when the patient jumps or runs. Which of the following is the best next step in management for this patient's most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following is the best next step in management for this patient's most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Ibuprofen and rest


Context: An investigator is studying the incidence of sickle cell trait in African American infants. To identify the trait, polymerase chain reaction testing is performed on venous blood samples obtained from the infants. Which of the following is required for this laboratory technique?

Question: Which of the following is required for this laboratory technique?

Answer: Initial sequence of the 3' end of a DNA strand


Context: A previously healthy 20-year-old woman comes to the physician because of recurrent abdominal cramps, bloating, and diarrhea for 4 months. She describes her stools as greasy, foul-smelling, and difficult to flush. During this time she has had a 6-kg (13.2-lb) weight loss. She has no personal or family history of serious illness. Physical examination shows pallor and cheilitis. Laboratory studies show a hemoglobin concentration of 11 g/dL. Serum concentrations of electrolytes, urea nitrogen, and creatinine are within the reference range. Test of the stool for occult blood is negative and stool microscopy reveals no pathogens and no leukocytes. Analysis of a 24-hour stool sample shows 12 g of fat. The patient is asked to consume 25 g of d-xylose. Five hours later, its concentration is measured in urine at 2 g (N = > 4 g/5 h). The test is repeated after a two-week course of rifaximin, but the urinary concentration of d-xylose remains the same. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer:
Hypersensitivity to gliadin
"


Context:
A 27-year-old man presents to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath and productive cough for a few days. He says that his sputum is mostly yellow with tiny red specks. He denies fever, chills, recent weight loss, or joint pain. He has no history of recent travel or sick contacts.  His medical history is unremarkable. He smokes a pack of cigarettes daily. He has had 3 sexual partners in the past year. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg, pulse is 98/min, and respirations are 20/min. On physical examination, the patient is in mild respiratory distress. Cardiopulmonary auscultation reveals diffuse bilateral rales. An HIV test is negative. His laboratory results are as follow:
Complete blood count
Hemoglobin 12 gm/dL
Serum chemistry
Sodium 143 mEq/L
Potassium 4.1 mEq/L
Chloride 98 mEq/L
Bicarbonate  22 mEq/L
Blood urea nitrogen 26 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.3 mg/dL
Glucose  86 mg/dL
Urine dipstick
Protein trace
Blood positive
Leukocytes negative
Nitrates negative
Which of the following is the most likely cause of his current condition?

Question:
His laboratory results are as follow:
Complete blood count
Hemoglobin 12 gm/dL
Serum chemistry
Sodium 143 mEq/L
Potassium 4.1 mEq/L
Chloride 98 mEq/L
Bicarbonate  22 mEq/L
Blood urea nitrogen 26 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.3 mg/dL
Glucose  86 mg/dL
Urine dipstick
Protein trace
Blood positive
Leukocytes negative
Nitrates negative
Which of the following is the most likely cause of his current condition?

Answer: Basement membrane antibodies


Context: An investigator is studying the clearance of respiratory particles in healthy non-smokers. An aerosol containing radio-labeled particles that are small enough to reach the alveoli is administered to the subjects via a non-rebreather mask. A gamma scanner is then used to evaluate the rate of particle clearance from the lungs. The primary mechanism of particle clearance most likely involves which of the following cell types?

Question: The primary mechanism of particle clearance most likely involves which of the following cell types?

Answer: Macrophages


Context: A 35-year-old woman, gravida 4, para 3, at 34 weeks' gestation comes to the physician for a prenatal visit. She feels well. She does not note any contractions or fluid from her vagina. Her third child was delivered spontaneously at 35 weeks' gestation; pregnancy and delivery of her other two children were uncomplicated. Vital signs are normal. The abdomen is nontender and no contractions are felt. Pelvic examination shows a uterus consistent in size with a 34-weeks' gestation. Ultrasonography shows the fetus in a breech presentation. The fetal heart rate is 148/min. 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: Observation


Context: A 25-year-old woman gives birth to a male child at 30 weeks of gestation. Pregnancy was complicated by polyhydramnios diagnosed on ultrasonography at 26 weeks of gestation. The baby is born vaginally weighing 1.2 kg (2.64 lb). Because he does not cry immediately after birth, endotracheal intubation is attempted to secure the airway. However, the vocal cords cannot be visualized because there is only a single opening corresponding to the esophagus. He is transferred to the NICU under bag and mask ventilation, where intubation is attempted once again by passing the endotracheal tube in the visualized opening, after which his oxygen saturation begins to improve. His temperature is 37.0ºC (98.6°F), pulse is 120/min, and respiratory rate is 42/min. On physical examination, no abnormalities are noted. Chest radiography is suggestive of respiratory distress syndrome. Which of the following most likely failed to develop in this patient?

Question: Which of the following most likely failed to develop in this patient?

Answer: Fourth and sixth branchial arches


Context: An 19-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician because she has been feeling increasingly lethargic over the last 6 months. Specifically, she says that she feels tired easily and has been cold even though she is wearing lots of layers. Her medical history is significant for seasonal allergies but is otherwise unremarkable. When prompted, she also says that she has a hard time swallowing food though she has no difficulty drinking liquids. Physical exam reveals a midline mass in her neck. Which of the following structures would most likely be seen if this patient's mass was biopsied?

Question: Which of the following structures would most likely be seen if this patient's mass was biopsied?

Answer: Follicles with colloid


Context: A 72-year-old man arrives at the emergency department 30 minutes after developing rapid onset right-sided weakness and decreased sensation on the right side of his body. The patient’s wife also reports that he has had difficulty forming sentences. His wife adds that these symptoms were at their maximum within a few minutes of the incident and began to resolve almost instantaneously. The patient says he had a related episode of painless visual loss in his left eye that resolved after about 10–20 minutes about 3 months ago. His past medical history includes diabetes mellitus type 2 and essential hypertension. The patient reports a 50 pack-year smoking history. His blood pressure is 140/60 mm Hg, and his temperature is 36.5°C (97.7°F). Neurological examination is significant for a subtle weakness of the right hand. A noncontrast CT scan of the head is unremarkable, and a carotid Doppler ultrasound shows 10% stenosis of the right internal carotid artery and 50% stenosis of the left internal carotid artery. Which of the following is the expected change in resistance to blood flow through the stenotic artery most likely responsible for this patient’s current symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is the expected change in resistance to blood flow through the stenotic artery most likely responsible for this patient’s current symptoms?

Answer: It will be 16 times greater


Context: A 39-year-old African American woman is admitted to the hospital following a seizure with a severe post-ictal headache. She was diagnosed with breast cancer 1 year ago when she presented with a hard, rock-like, immobile mass with irregular borders accompanied by changes in the breast skin, including erythema and dimpling. She had ipsilateral mobile axillary lymphadenopathy at that time. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of stage 2B invasive breast cancer. Her mother died at 42 years of age due to the same type of breast cancer. A CT scan done during this admission reveals multiple metastatic lesions in the brain and liver, along with the involvement of supra- and infra-clavicular lymph nodes. Which of the following molecular profile most likely characterizes this patient?

Question: Which of the following molecular profile most likely characterizes this patient?

Answer: ER, PR, HER2 negative


Context: A 13-year-old boy is brought to the physician because of a 1-month history of progressive difficulty breathing through his nose and a 2-week history of recurrent severe nosebleeds. When he holds the right nostril shut, he is unable to breathe nasally and his sense of smell is reduced. He has a 6-year history of asthma, which is well controlled with inhaled albuterol. Vital signs are within normal limits. Nasal inspection shows a pink, lobulated mass filling the left nasal cavity. The septum is deviated to the right side. The mass bleeds on touch. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. 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: CT scan of head with contrast


Context: A 20-year-old man comes to the emergency room because of palpitations and mild dyspnea for the last 2 hours. He has had similar episodes in the past that resolved within 20 minutes, but they have been worsening since he started training for his first marathon 1 month ago. Ten years ago, he was treated for streptococcal pharyngitis with a 10-day course of penicillin. His maternal uncle passed away unexpectedly from a heart condition at age 40. He is 180 cm (5 ft 11 in) tall and weighs 85 kg (187 lb); BMI is 26.2 kg/m2. His temperature is 36.5°C (97.7°F), pulse is 70/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 132/60 mm Hg. On examination, there is a decrescendo early diastolic murmur heard best along the left sternal border. His head slightly bobs about every second. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is most likely to be present?

Question: Which of the following is most likely to be present?

Answer: Bicuspid aortic valve


Context:
A 71-year-old man comes to the physician for a routine health maintenance examination. He feels well. He goes for a 30-minute walk three times a week and does not experience any shortness of breath or chest or leg pain on exertion. He has not had any weakness, numbness, or vision disturbance. He has diabetes that is well controlled with insulin injections. He had smoked one pack of cigarettes every day for 40 years but quit 5 years ago. He appears healthy and well nourished. His temperature is 36.3°C (97.3°F), pulse is 75/min, and blood pressure is 136/78 mm Hg. Physical examination shows normal heart sounds. There are systolic bruits over the neck bilaterally. Physical and neurologic examinations show no other abnormalities. Fasting serum studies show:
Total cholesterol 210 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol 28 mg/dL
LDL cholesterol 154 mg/dL
Triglycerides 140 mg/dL
Glucose 102 mg/dL
Duplex ultrasonography of the carotid arteries shows a 85% stenosis on the left and a 55% stenosis on the right side. 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: Left carotid endarterectomy


Context: A 28-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department after being resuscitated in the field. Her husband is with her and recalls seeing pills beside her when he was in the bathroom. He reveals she has a past medical history of depression and was recently given a prescription for smoking cessation. On physical exam, you notice a right-sided scalp hematoma and a deep laceration to her tongue. She has a poor EEG waveform indicating limited to no cerebral blood flow and failed both her apnea test and reflexes. She is found to be in a persistent vegetative state, and the health care team starts to initiate the end of life discussion. The husband states that the patient had no advance directives other than to have told her husband she did not want to be kept alive with machines. The parents want all heroic measures to be taken. Which of the following is the most accurate statement with regards to this situation?

Question: Which of the following is the most accurate statement with regards to this situation?

Answer: The patient’s husband may be appointed as her health care surrogate and may make end-of-life decisions on her behalf.


Context: An 8-year-old girl is brought to the emergency department because of a 2-day history of low-grade fever, itchy rash, and generalized joint pain. The rash initially started in the antecubital and popliteal fossae and then spread to her trunk and distal extremities. One week ago, she was diagnosed with acute sinusitis and was started on amoxicillin. She has no history of adverse drug reactions and immunizations are up-to-date. Her temperature is 37.5°C (99.5°F), pulse is 90/min, and blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg. Physical examination shows periorbital edema and multiple erythematous, annular plaques of variable sizes over her entire body. One of the lesions in the right popliteal fossa has an area of central clearing and the patient's mother reports that it has been present for over 24 hours. Urinalysis is normal. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Serum sickness-like reaction


Context: A 7-year-old boy presents to the clinic with his mother, who notes that the way in which he plays has changed and that he has been limping, favoring his left leg. When asked, the patient states that his left knee hurts. He is afebrile and vital signs are stable. The patient is well nourished and meeting all developmental milestones. On physical examination, the knee has a full range of motion; however, passive motion elicits pain in the left hip. An X-ray is performed and reveals a flattened left femoral head. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD)


Context:
A 57-year-old man presents to the clinic for a chronic cough over the past 4 months. The patient reports a productive yellow/green cough that is worse at night. He denies any significant precipitating event prior to his symptoms. He denies fever, chest pain, palpitations, weight changes, or abdominal pain, but endorses some difficulty breathing that waxes and wanes. He denies alcohol usage but endorses a 35 pack-year smoking history. A physical examination demonstrates mild wheezes, bibasilar crackles, and mild clubbing of his fingertips. A pulmonary function test is subsequently ordered, and partial results are shown below:

Tidal volume: 500 mL
Residual volume: 1700 mL
Expiratory reserve volume: 1500 mL
Inspiratory reserve volume: 3000 mL

What is the functional residual capacity of this patient?

Question:
A pulmonary function test is subsequently ordered, and partial results are shown below:

Tidal volume: 500 mL
Residual volume: 1700 mL
Expiratory reserve volume: 1500 mL
Inspiratory reserve volume: 3000 mL

What is the functional residual capacity of this patient?

Answer: 3200 mL


Context: A 17-year-old man presents to his primary care physician concerned about excessive sleepiness that has persisted his entire life. He notes that he has been having difficulty with his job as a waiter because he often falls asleep suddenly during the day. He also experiences a sensation of dreaming as he goes to sleep even though he still feels awake. He sleeps about 10 hours per day and still feels tired throughout the day. The patient has even reported driving into a tree once as he fell asleep while driving. The patient often stays up late at night working on the computer. Physical exam demonstrates an obese young man who appears tired. His oropharynx demonstrates high palatal ridges and good dental hygiene. Which of the following is the best next step in management?

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

Answer: Begin inhibitor of dopamine reuptake


Context:
A 38-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician for a new patient appointment. She states that she feels well and has no current complaints. The patient recently started seeing a specialist for treatment for another medical condition but otherwise has had no medical problems. The patient lives alone and drinks 2 alcoholic beverages every night. She has had 3 sexual partners in her lifetime, uses oral contraceptive pills for contraception, and has never been pregnant. Physical exam reveals a pleasant, obese woman with normal S1 and S2 on cardiac exam. Musculoskeletal exam reveals swelling of the MCP and PIP joints of the hands as well as ulnar deviation of the fingers. Laboratory tests are ordered and results are 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+: 10.2 mg/dL
AST: 95 U/L
ALT: 68 U/L

Which of the following best explains this patient's abnormal laboratory values?

Question:
Laboratory tests are ordered and results are 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+: 10.2 mg/dL
AST: 95 U/L
ALT: 68 U/L

Which of the following best explains this patient's abnormal laboratory values?

Answer: Medication


Context: A 67-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband because of a 1-hour history of severe groin pain, nausea, and vomiting. She has had a groin swelling that worsens with standing, coughing, and straining for the past 3 months. Her pulse is 120/min. Examination shows pallor; there is swelling, erythema, and tenderness to palpation of the right groin that is centered below the inguinal ligament. The most likely cause of this patient's condition is entrapment of an organ between which of the following structures?

Question: The most likely cause of this patient's condition is entrapment of an organ between which of the following structures?

Answer: Lacunar ligament and femoral vein