Context: A 75-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 4-month history of progressive shortness of breath and chest pressure with exertion. Cardiac examination shows a crescendo-decrescendo systolic murmur that is heard best in the second right intercostal space. Radial pulses are decreased and delayed bilaterally. Transesophageal echocardiography shows hypertrophy of the left ventricle and a thick, calcified aortic valve. The area of the left ventricular outflow tract is 30.6 mm2. Using continuous-wave Doppler measurements, the left ventricular outflow tract velocity is 1.0 m/s, and the peak aortic valve velocity is 3.0 m/s. Which of the following values most closely represents the area of the stenotic aortic valve?

Question: Which of the following values most closely represents the area of the stenotic aortic valve?

Answer: 10.2 mm2


Context: A newborn male born prematurely at 33 weeks is noted to have mild dyspnea and difficulty with feeding. Examination reveals bounding peripheral radial pulses and a continuous 'machine-like' murmur. The patient is subsequently started on indomethacin. Which of the following is the embryologic origin of the structure most likely responsible for this patient's presentation?

Question: Which of the following is the embryologic origin of the structure most likely responsible for this patient's presentation?

Answer: 6th aortic arch


Context: An 18-year-old female visits your obstetrics clinic for her first prenatal check up. It's her first month of pregnancy and other than morning sickness, she is feeling well. Upon inquiring about her past medical history, the patient admits that she used to be very fearful of weight gain and often used laxatives to lose weight. After getting therapy for this condition, she regained her normal body weight but continues to struggle with the disease occasionally. Given this history, how could her past condition affect the pregnancy?

Question: Given this history, how could her past condition affect the pregnancy?

Answer: Postpartum depression for mother


Context: A 4-year-old boy presents to the pediatrician's office for a well child checkup. He does not speak during the visit and will not make eye contact. The father explains that the child has always been shy with strangers. However, the child speaks a lot at home and with friends. He can speak in 4 word sentences, tells stories, and parents understand 100% of what he says. He names colors and is starting to recognize letters. However, his pre-kindergarten teachers are concerned that even after 5 months in their class, he does not speak during school at all. The father notes that he is equally as shy in church, which he has been going to his entire life. Which of the following is most likely?

Question: Which of the following is most likely?

Answer: Selective mutism


Context: A 61-year-old man with Alzheimer disease is brought to the emergency department 20 minutes after ingesting an unknown amount of his medications in a suicide attempt. He reports abdominal cramps, diarrhea, diaphoresis, and muscular weakness and spasms in his extremities. His temperature is 38.4°C (101.1°F), pulse is 51/min, respirations are 12/min and labored, and blood pressure is 88/56 mm Hg. Physical examination shows excessive salivation and tearing, and small pupils bilaterally. Treatment with atropine is initiated. Shortly after, most of his symptoms have resolved, but he continues to have muscular spasms. Administration of which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management of this patient?

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

Answer: Pralidoxime


Context: A 46-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 3-day history of diarrhea and abdominal pain. She returned from a trip to Egypt 4 weeks ago. Her vital signs are within normal limits. There is mild tenderness in the right lower quadrant. Stool studies show occult blood and unicellular organisms with engulfed erythrocytes. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial pharmacotherapy for this patient?

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

Answer: Metronidazole


Context: A 36-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department after being involved in a motor vehicle collision. She is alert, awake, and oriented. There is no family history of serious illness and her only medication is an oral contraceptive. Her temperature is 37.3°C (99°F), pulse is 100/min, respirations are 20/min, and blood pressure is 102/80 mm Hg. Physical examination shows ecchymoses over the trunk and abdomen. A FAST scan of the abdomen is negative. An x-ray of the chest shows no fractures. A contrast-enhanced CT scan of the chest and abdomen is performed that shows a 4-cm sharply defined liver mass with a hypoattenuated central scar. 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: Reassurance and observation


Context:
Two hours after a 2280-g male newborn is born at 38 weeks' gestation to a 22-year-old primigravid woman, he has 2 episodes of vomiting and jitteriness. The mother has noticed that the baby is not feeding adequately. She received adequate prenatal care and admits to smoking one pack of cigarettes daily while pregnant. His temperature is 36.3°C (97.3°F), pulse is 171/min and respirations are 60/min. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 92%. Examination shows pale extremities. There is facial plethora. Capillary refill time is 3 seconds. Laboratory studies show:
Hematocrit 70%
Leukocyte count 7800/mm3
Platelet count 220,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 38 mg/dL
Calcium 8.3 mg/dL
Which of the following is the most likely cause of these findings?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hematocrit 70%
Leukocyte count 7800/mm3
Platelet count 220,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 38 mg/dL
Calcium 8.3 mg/dL
Which of the following is the most likely cause of these findings?"

Answer:
Intrauterine hypoxia
"


Context: A 20-year-old man comes to the physician because of dark urine and decreased urine output for 2 days. He had a skin infection that required antibiotic treatment 3 weeks ago but stopped the antibiotics early because the infection had resolved. His blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg. Physical examination shows periorbital edema bilaterally. A photomicrograph of a renal biopsy specimen is shown. Further evaluation of this patient is most likely to show which of the following findings?

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

Answer: Elevated Anti-DNase B titer


Context: A 7-year-old boy with a history of fetal alcohol syndrome is brought by his mother to the emergency room for malaise and lethargy. His mother reports that the family was on vacation in a cabin in the mountains for the past 10 days. Five days ago, the child developed a fever with a max temperature of 102.6°F (39.2°F). She also reports that he was given multiple medications to try to bring down his fever. Although his fever resolved two days ago, the child has become increasingly lethargic. He started having non-bilious, non-bloody emesis one day prior to presentation. His current temperature is 100°F (37.8°C), blood pressure is 95/55 mmHg, pulse is 110/min, and respirations are 22/min. On exam, the child is lethargic and minimally reactive. Mild hepatomegaly is noted. A biopsy of this patient’s liver would likely reveal which of the following?

Question: A biopsy of this patient’s liver would likely reveal which of the following?

Answer: Microvesicular steatosis


Context: A 25-year-old woman presents to the ED with a diffuse, erythematous rash in the setting of nausea, vomiting, and fever for 2 days. Physical exam reveals a soaked tampon in her vagina. Blood cultures are negative. The likely cause of this patient's disease binds to which molecule on T cells?

Question: The likely cause of this patient's disease binds to which molecule on T cells?

Answer: Variable beta portion of the T-cell receptor


Context: A 22-year-old woman comes to the physician because of pain and swelling of her left foot. Three days ago, she cut her foot on an exposed rock at the beach. Her temperature is 37.7°C (100°F). Examination of the left foot shows edema around a fluctuant erythematous lesion on the lateral foot. Which of the following is most likely the primary mechanism for the development of edema in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is most likely the primary mechanism for the development of edema in this patient?

Answer: Separation of endothelial junctions


Context: A 60-year-old woman with a history of atrial arrhythmia arrives in the emergency department with complaints of tinnitus, headache, visual disturbances, and severe diarrhea. The patient is given oxygen by nasal cannula. ECG leads, pulse oximeter and an automated blood pressure cuff are applied. The patient suddenly faints. Her ECG indicates the presence of a multifocal ventricular tachycardia with continuous change in the QRS electrical axis. Which of the following drugs is most likely responsible for this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Quinidine


Context: A 35-year-old soldier is rescued from a helicopter crash in the Arctic Circle and brought back to a treatment facility at a nearby military base. On arrival, the patient's wet clothes are removed. He appears pale and is not shivering. He is unresponsive to verbal and painful stimuli. His temperature is 27.4°C (81.3°F), pulse is 30/min and irregular, respirations are 7/min, and blood pressure is 83/52 mm Hg. Examination shows fixed, dilated pupils and diffuse rigidity. The fingers and toes are white in color and hard to the touch. An ECG shows atrial fibrillation. In addition to emergent intubation, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Question: In addition to emergent intubation, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Answer: Intravenous administration of warmed normal saline


Context: A 44-year-old woman comes to the physician for the evaluation of right knee pain for 1 week. The pain began after the patient twisted her knee during basketball practice. At the time of the injury, she felt a popping sensation and her knee became swollen over the next few hours. The pain is exacerbated by walking up or down stairs and worsens throughout the day. She also reports occasional locking of the knee. She has been taking acetaminophen during the past week, but the pain is worse today. Her mother has rheumatoid arthritis. The patient is 155 cm (4 ft 11 in) tall and weighs 75 kg (165 lb); BMI is 33 kg/m2. Vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows effusion of the right knee; range of motion is limited by pain. There is medial joint line tenderness. Knee extension with rotation results in an audible snap. Further evaluation is most likely to show which of the following?

Question: Further evaluation is most likely to show which of the following?

Answer: Hyperintense line in the meniscus on MRI


Context: A 31-year-old man living in a remote tropical village presents with a swollen left leg and scrotum (see image). He says that his symptoms started more than 2 years ago with several small swollen areas near his groin and have gradually and progressively worsened. He has also noticed that over time, there has been a progressive coarsening and fissuring of the skin overlying the swollen areas. Blood samples drawn at night show worm-like organisms under microscopy. Which of the following arthropods is the vector for the organism most likely responsible for this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following arthropods is the vector for the organism most likely responsible for this patient’s condition?

Answer: Mosquito


Context: A 17-year-old female is found to have an inherited deficiency of alpha-galactosidase A. Skin biopsy shows accumulation of ceramide trihexose in the tissue. Which of the following abnormalities would be expected in this patient?

Question: Which of the following abnormalities would be expected in this patient?

Answer: Angiokeratomas


Context: A 39-year-old woman presents to your office with 4 days of fever, sore throat, generalized aching, arthralgias, and tender nodules on both of her shins that arose in the last 48 hours. Her medical history is negative for disease and she does not take oral contraceptives or any other medication regularly. The physical examination reveals the vital signs that include body temperature 38.5°C (101.3°F), heart rate 85/min, blood pressure 120/65 mm Hg, tender and enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, and an erythematous, edematous, and swollen pharynx with enlarged tonsils and a patchy white exudate on the surface. She is not pregnant. Examination of the lower limbs reveals erythematous, tender, immobile nodules on both shins. You do not identify ulcers or similar lesions on other areas of her body. What is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

Answer: Erythema nodosum


Context: A 66-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of weakness of his left leg for the past 30 minutes. His pants are soaked with urine. He has hypertension and atrial fibrillation. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 98/min, and blood pressure is 160/90 mm Hg. Examination shows equal pupils that are reactive to light. Muscle strength is 2/5 in the left lower extremity. Plantar reflex shows an extensor response on the left. Within one minute of the onset of this patient's symptoms, the cells in his right anteromedial cortical surface enlarge significantly. Which of the following is the most likely explanation of the described cellular change?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely explanation of the described cellular change?

Answer: Intracellular depletion of ATP


Context: A 23-year-old male presents to his primary care physician after an injury during a rugby game. The patient states that he was tackled and ever since then has had pain in his knee. The patient has tried NSAIDs and ice to no avail. The patient has no past medical history and is currently taking a multivitamin, fish oil, and a whey protein supplement. On physical exam you note a knee that is heavily bruised. It is painful for the patient to bear weight on the knee, and passive motion of the knee elicits some pain. There is laxity at the knee to varus stress. The patient is wondering when he can return to athletics. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Lateral collateral ligament tear


Context:
An 80-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department due to the gradual worsening of confusion and lethargy for the past 5 days. Her son reports that she had recovered from a severe stomach bug with vomiting and diarrhea 3 days ago without seeing a physician or going to the hospital. The patient’s past medical history is notable for type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension. She takes hydrochlorothiazide, metformin, a children’s aspirin, and a multivitamin. The patient is not compliant with her medication regimen. Physical examination reveals dry oral mucous membranes and the patient appears extremely lethargic but arousable. She refuses to answer questions and has extreme difficulty following the conversation. Laboratory results are as follows:
Sodium 126 mEq/L
Potassium 3.9 mEq/L
Chloride 94 mEq/L
Bicarbonate 25 mEq/L
Calcium 8.1 mg/dL
Glucose 910 mg/dL
Urine ketones Trace
Which of the following may also be found in this patient?

Question:
Laboratory results are as follows:
Sodium 126 mEq/L
Potassium 3.9 mEq/L
Chloride 94 mEq/L
Bicarbonate 25 mEq/L
Calcium 8.1 mg/dL
Glucose 910 mg/dL
Urine ketones Trace
Which of the following may also be found in this patient?

Answer: Increased BUN/creatinine ratio


Context: A 73-year-old man presents to the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting, stating that he “can’t keep anything down”. He states that the pain has been gradually getting worse over the past 2 months, saying that, at first, it was present only an hour after he ate but now is constant. He also says that he has been constipated for the last 2 weeks, which has also been getting progressively worse. His last bowel movement was 4 days ago which was normal. He states that he cannot pass flatus. The patient’s past medical history is significant for hypertension and an episode of pneumonia last year. The patient is afebrile and his pulse is 105/min. On physical examination, the patient is uncomfortable. His lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. His abdomen is visibly distended and diffusely tender with tympany on percussion. A contrast CT scan of the abdomen shows dilated loops of small bowel with collapsed large bowel. 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: Mass effect from a tumor


Context: A 20-year-old college student has elevated stress levels due to her rigorous academic schedule, social commitments, and family pressures. She complains of never having enough time for all her responsibilities. Which of the following hormones acts by intracellular receptors to exert the physiologic effects of her stress?

Question: Which of the following hormones acts by intracellular receptors to exert the physiologic effects of her stress?

Answer: Cortisol


Context: A 61-year-old female is referred to an oncologist for evaluation of a breast lump that she noticed two weeks ago while doing a breast self-examination. Her past medical history is notable for essential hypertension and major depressive disorder for which she takes lisinopril and escitalopram, respectively. Her temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 120/65 mmHg, pulse is 82/min, and respirations are 18/min. Biopsy of the lesion confirms a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma with metastatic disease in the ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes. The physician starts the patient on a multi-drug chemotherapeutic regimen. The patient successfully undergoes mastectomy and axillary dissection and completes the chemotherapeutic regimen. However, several months after completion of the regimen, the patient presents to the emergency department with dyspnea, chest pain, and palpitations. A chest radiograph demonstrates an enlarged cardiac silhouette. This patient’s current symptoms could have been prevented by administration of which of the following medications?

Question: This patient’s current symptoms could have been prevented by administration of which of the following medications?

Answer: Dexrazoxane


Context: A 58-year-old woman presents with frequent headaches for the past few months. She says the pain starts randomly and is unrelated to any stimulus. She also says that has difficulty falling asleep and has had problems concentrating at work for several months. While she occasionally thinks about committing suicide, she denies any suicidal plans. Her appetite is diminished. No significant past medical history. No current medications. There is no family history of depression or psychiatric illness. The physical exam is unremarkable. The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is 3.5 uU/mL. The patient is started on amitriptyline and asked to follow-up in 2 weeks. At her follow-up visit, the patient reports slight improvement in her mood and has no more headaches, but she complains of lightheadedness when she rises out of bed in the morning or stands up from her desk at work. Which of the following pharmacological effects of amitriptyline is most likely responsible for her lightheadedness?

Question: Which of the following pharmacological effects of amitriptyline is most likely responsible for her lightheadedness?

Answer: Blockage of α1 adrenergic receptors


Context: A new real time-PCR test for the hepatitis C virus is approved for medical use. The manufacturer sets the threshold number of DNA copies required to achieve a positive result such that the sensitivity is 98% and the specificity is 80%. The tested population has a hepatitis C prevalence of 0.7%. Which of the following changes in the prevalence, incidence, or threshold concentration will increase the positive predictive value of the test, if the other two values are held constant?

Question: Which of the following changes in the prevalence, incidence, or threshold concentration will increase the positive predictive value of the test, if the other two values are held constant?

Answer: An increase in prevalence


Context: A 4080-g (9-lb) male newborn is delivered at term to a 32-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 1. Apgar scores are 8 and 9 at 1- and 5-minutes, respectively. Examination in the delivery room shows both feet pointing downwards and inwards. Both the forefeet are twisted medially in adduction, with the hindfeet elevated and the midfeet appearing concave. Both Achilles tendons are taut on palpation. There are skin creases on the medial side of both feet. The deformity persists despite attempts to passively straighten the foot. X-rays of both feet confirm the suspected diagnosis. 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: Repositioning and serial casting


Context: A 4390-g (9-lb 11-oz) male newborn is delivered at term to a 28-year-old primigravid woman. Pregnancy was complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus. Labor was prolonged by the impaction of the fetal shoulder and required hyperabduction of the left upper extremity. Apgar scores were 7 and 8 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. Vital signs are within normal limits. Examination in the delivery room shows a constricted left pupil. There is drooping of the left eyelid. Active movement of the left upper extremity is reduced. Further evaluation of this newborn is most likely to show which of the following?

Question: Further evaluation of this newborn is most likely to show which of the following?

Answer: Absent unilateral grasp reflex


Context:
A 4-year-old girl presents to the emergency department after persistent vomiting and complaints that her abdomen hurts. Her parents came home to their daughter like this while she was at home being watched by the babysitter. The child is otherwise healthy. Family history is notable for depression, suicide, neuropathic pain, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and angina. The child is now minimally responsive and confused. Her temperature is 100°F (37.8°C), blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg, pulse is 140/min, respirations are 22/min, and oxygen saturation is 100% on room air. Physical exam is notable for a confused girl who is vomiting bloody emesis into a basin. Laboratory studies are ordered as seen below.

Serum:
Na+: 140 mEq/L
Cl-: 101 mEq/L
K+: 3.9 mEq/L
HCO3-: 11 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 99 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.0 mg/dL

Radiography is notable for a few radiopaque objects in the stomach. Urine and serum toxicology are pending. Which of the following is the most likely intoxication?

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

Answer: Iron


Context: A 70-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 4-month history of fatigue, worsening swelling of her ankles, and a 5-kg (11-lb) weight gain. Neurologic examination shows diminished two-point discrimination in her fingers. Laboratory studies show a hemoglobin A1c concentration of 9.2% and a creatinine concentration of 1.3 mg/dL. Urine dipstick shows heavy proteinuria. A biopsy specimen of this patient's kidney is most likely to show which of the following?

Question: A biopsy specimen of this patient's kidney is most likely to show which of the following?

Answer: Nodular glomerulosclerosis


Context: An 11-year-old male with light purple eyes presents with gradual loss of bilateral visual acuity. Over the past several years, vision has worsened from 20/20 to 20/100 in both eyes. He also has mild nystagmus when focusing on objects such as when he is trying to do his homework. He is diagnosed with a disease affecting melanin production in the iris. If both of his parents are unaffected, which of the following represents the most likely probabilities that another male or female child from this family would be affected by this disorder?

Question: If both of his parents are unaffected, which of the following represents the most likely probabilities that another male or female child from this family would be affected by this disorder?

Answer: Male: 50% Female: 0%


Context: A 75-year-old man comes to his primary care physician because he has been having diarrhea and difficulty breathing. The diarrhea has been intermittent with frequent watery stools that occur along with abdominal cramps. Furthermore, the skin on his face and upper chest feels hot and changes color in episodes lasting from a few minutes to hours. Finally, the patient complains of loss of appetite and says that he has unexpectedly lost 20 pounds over the last two months. Based on clinical suspicion, magnetic resonance imaging is obtained showing a small mass in this patient's lungs. Which of the following is associated with the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: It also arises in the GI tract


Context: An 8-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his foster mother because of complaints from his teachers regarding poor performance at school for the past 8 months. He does not listen to their instructions, often talks during class, and rarely completes his school assignments. He does not sit in his seat in the classroom and often cuts in line at the cafeteria. His foster mother reports that he runs around a lot inside the house and refuses to help his sister with chores and errands. He frequently interrupts his foster mother's conversations with others and talks excessively. She has found him trying to climb on the roof on multiple occasions. He was placed in foster care because of neglect by his biological parents 3 years ago. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Neurologic examination shows no focal findings. Mental status examination shows a neutral affect. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder


Context: A 30-year-old Caucasian male is brought to the emergency room for recurrent diarrhea. He has had multiple upper respiratory infections since birth and does not take any medications at home. It is determined that Giardia lamblia is responsible for the recurrent diarrhea. The physician performs a serum analysis and finds normal levels of mature B lymphocytes. What other finding on serum analysis predisposes the patient to recurrent diarrheal infections?

Question: What other finding on serum analysis predisposes the patient to recurrent diarrheal infections?

Answer: Deficiency in IgA


Context: Paramedics are called to a 35-year-old man who had accidentally amputated his left index finger tip with a knife. He has no significant past medical history. His temperature is 37.2°C (99°F), pulse is 96/min, and blood pressure is 112/72 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 99%. His left index finger is amputated distal to the distal interphalangeal joint at the level of the nail bed, and exposed bone is visible. There is profuse bleeding from the wound site. His ability to flex, extend, abduct, and adduct the joints is preserved and sensation is intact. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step prior to transporting this patient to the emergency department?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step prior to transporting this patient to the emergency department?

Answer: Wrap finger tip in gauze damp with saline in a sealed plastic bag placed on ice water


Context: A 22-year-old medical student presents to a community health center due to an episode of loss of consciousness 3 days ago. She also has a history of multiple episodes of dizziness in the last year. These episodes almost always occur when she is observing surgery in the operating room. She describes her dizziness as a feeling of lightheadedness, warmth, excessive sweating, and palpitations. She feels that she will fall down if she stood longer and usually sits on the floor or leaves the room until the feeling subsides. Three days ago, she collapsed while observing an open cholecystectomy but regained consciousness after a few seconds. Once she regained consciousness, she was pale and sweating excessively. Her medical history is significant for migraines, but she is not on prophylactic therapy. Her younger brother has cerebral palsy, and her uncle had a sudden death at the age of 25. Her blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg when lying down and 118/80 mm Hg when in a standing position. The rest of the physical examination is within normal limits. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?

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

Answer: Electrocardiogram (ECG)


Context: A 51-year-old Caucasian female presents to her primary care provider complaining of intermittent chest pain. She reports that over the past 6 months, she has developed burning chest pain that occurs whenever she exerts herself. The pain decreases when she rests. Her past medical history is notable for type II diabetes mellitus. Her family history is notable for multiple myocardial infarctions in her father and paternal grandmother. She currently takes aspirin and metformin. Her primary care provider starts her on a medication which is indicated given her medical history and current symptoms. However, 10 days later, she presents to the emergency room complaining of weakness and muscle pain. Her plasma creatine kinase level is 250,000 IU/L. This patient was most likely started on a medication that inhibits an enzyme that produces which of the following?

Question: This patient was most likely started on a medication that inhibits an enzyme that produces which of the following?

Answer: Mevalonic acid


Context: A 26-year-old man presents to his primary care physician complaining of impotence. He reports that he has a healthy, long-term relationship with a woman whom he hopes to marry, but he is embarrassed that he is unable to have an erection. Which of the following is the next best step?

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

Answer: Evaluate nocturnal tumescence


Context:
A cohort study was done to assess the differential incidence of diabetes in patients consuming a typical western diet, versus those consuming a Mediterranean diet. A total of 600 subjects were included with 300 in each arm. Results are as follows:
  Diabetes development No-diabetes development
Western diet 36 264
Mediterranean diet 9 291
What is the odds ratio of developing diabetes for a given subject consuming the western diet as compared to a subject who consumes the Mediterranean diet?

Question:
Results are as follows:
  Diabetes development No-diabetes development
Western diet 36 264
Mediterranean diet 9 291
What is the odds ratio of developing diabetes for a given subject consuming the western diet as compared to a subject who consumes the Mediterranean diet?

Answer: 4.4


Context: Researchers are investigating the effects of an Amazonian plant extract as a novel therapy for certain types of tumors. When applied to tumor cells in culture, the extract causes widespread endoplasmic reticulum stress and subsequent cell death. Further experiments show that the extract acts on an important member of a protein complex that transduces proliferation signals. When this protein alone is exposed to the plant extract, its function is not recovered by the addition of chaperones. Which type of bond is the extract most likely targeting?

Question: Which type of bond is the extract most likely targeting?

Answer: Covalent bonds between carboxyl and amino groups


Context:
A 37-year-old woman accompanied by her husband presents to the emergency department after loss of consciousness 30 minutes ago. The husband reports that she was sitting in a chair at home and began having sustained rhythmic contractions of all 4 extremities for approximately 1 minute. During transport via ambulance she appeared confused but arousable. Her husband reports she has no medical conditions, but for the past 2 months she has occasionally complained of episodes of sweating, palpitations, and anxiety. Her brother has epilepsy and her mother has type 1 diabetes mellitus. Laboratory studies obtained in the emergency department demonstrate the following:

Serum:
Na+: 136 mEq/L
K+: 3.8 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
HCO3-: 19 mEq/L
BUN: 16 mg/dL
Creatinine: 0.9 mg/dL
Glucose: 54 mg/dL
C-peptide: Low

Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question:
Laboratory studies obtained in the emergency department demonstrate the following:

Serum:
Na+: 136 mEq/L
K+: 3.8 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
HCO3-: 19 mEq/L
BUN: 16 mg/dL
Creatinine: 0.9 mg/dL
Glucose: 54 mg/dL
C-peptide: Low

Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Surreptitious insulin use


Context: A healthy 36-year-old Caucasian man takes part in an experimental drug trial. The drug is designed to lower glomerular filtration rate (GFR) while simultaneously raising the filtration fraction. Which of the following effects on the glomerulus would you expect the drug to have?

Question: Which of the following effects on the glomerulus would you expect the drug to have?

Answer: Afferent arteriole constriction and efferent arteriole constriction


Context: A pathologist is investigating the cytology of cells that have been infected with a particularly virulent strain of the influenza virus. The physician suspects that the virus results in cell death after viral replication in order to expedite the spread of the virus. She recalls that there are three known biochemical mechanisms of initiating programmed cellular death: 1) transmembrane receptor-mediated interaction, 2) stimuli producing intracellular signals leading to mitochondrial-initiated events, and 3) release of cytoplasmic granules into a cell via a perforin molecule. Which of the following biochemical components plays a common role in all of these 3 processes?

Question: Which of the following biochemical components plays a common role in all of these 3 processes?

Answer: Caspase-3


Context:
A 15-year-old girl is hospitalized because of increased fatigue and weight loss over the past 2 months. The patient has no personal or family history of a serious illness. She takes no medications, currently. Her blood pressure is 175/74 mm Hg on the left arm and 90/45 on the right. The radial pulse is 84/min but weaker on the right side. The femoral blood pressure and pulses show no abnormalities. Temperature is 38.1℃ (100.6℉). The muscles over the right upper arm are slightly atrophic. The remainder of the examination reveals no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show the following results:
Hemoglobin 10.4 g/dL
Leukocyte count 5,000/mm3
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 58 mm/h
Magnetic resonance arteriography reveals irregularity, stenosis, and poststenotic dilation involving the proximal right subclavian artery. Prednisone is initiated with improvement of her symptoms. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the patient management?

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

Answer: Carvedilol + hydrochlorothiazide


Context: A neonate appears irritable and refuses to feed. The patient is febrile and physical examination reveals a bulge at the anterior fontanelle. A CSF culture yields Gram-negative bacilli that form a metallic green sheen on eosin methylene blue (EMB) agar. The virulence factor most important to the development of infection in this patient is:

Question: The virulence factor most important to the development of infection in this patient is:

Answer: K capsule


Context: A 16-year-old female is brought to the primary care clinic by her mother. The mother is concerned about her daughter’s grades, which have been recently slipping. Per the mother, the patient usually earns a mix of As and Bs in her classes, but this past semester she has been getting Cs and a few Ds. Her mother is also frustrated because she feels like her daughter is acting out more and “hanging out with some no-good friends.” Upon questioning the patient with her mother in the room, the patient does not say much and makes no eye contact. The mother is asked to leave the room and the patient is questioned again about any stressors. After rapport is established, the patient breaks down and tearfully admits to trying various drugs in order to “fit in with her friends.” She says that she knows the drugs “are not good for me” but has been very stressed out about telling her friends she’s not interested. Detailed questioning reveals that the patient has been using alcohol, cocaine, and marijuana 2-3 times per week. The patient becomes agitated at the end of the interview and pleads for you to not tell her mother. She says that she knows they’re illegal but is very afraid of what her parents would say. What is the best action in response to the adolescent’s request?

Question: What is the best action in response to the adolescent’s request?

Answer: Reassure the patient that there is confidentiality in this situation but encourage her to tell her mother


Context: A 60-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 2-week history of severe, retrosternal chest pain. She also has pain when swallowing solid food and medications. She has hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, poorly-controlled asthma, and osteoporosis. She was recently admitted to the hospital for an acute asthma exacerbation that was treated with bronchodilators and a 7-day course of oral corticosteroids. Her current medications include aspirin, amlodipine, metformin, insulin, beclomethasone and albuterol inhalers, and alendronate. Vital signs are within normal limits. Examination of the oral pharynx appears normal. The lungs are clear to auscultation. An upper endoscopy shows a single punched-out ulcer with normal surrounding mucosa at the gastroesophageal junction. Biopsies of the ulcer are taken. 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: Discontinue alendronate


Context: A 36-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital because of irritability, nausea, and diarrhea. She has a history of recreational oxycodone use and last took a dose 48 hours ago. Physical examination shows mydriasis, rhinorrhea, and piloerection. A drug is administered that provides an effect similar to oxycodone but does not cause euphoria. Which of the following best explains the difference in effect?

Question: Which of the following best explains the difference in effect?

Answer: Lower efficacy


Context: A 6-year-old girl is brought to a clinic with complaints of fever and sore throat for 2 days. This morning, she developed a rash on her face and neck which is progressing towards the trunk. The teachers in her school report that none of her classmates has similar symptoms. She has a normal birth history. On physical examination, the child looks healthy. The heart rate is 90/min, respiratory rate is 20/min, temperature is 39.0°C (102.2°F), and blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg. An oropharyngeal examination reveals circumoral pallor with a red tongue, as shown in the photograph below. The chest and cardiac examinations are within normal limits. No hepatosplenomegaly is noted. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Scarlet fever


Context: A 4-day-old healthy male infant is born with normal internal and external male reproductive organs. Karyotype analysis reveals a 46XY genotype. Production of what substance by which cell type is responsible for the development of the normal male seminal vesicles, epididymides, ejaculatory ducts, and ductus deferens?

Question: Production of what substance by which cell type is responsible for the development of the normal male seminal vesicles, epididymides, ejaculatory ducts, and ductus deferens?

Answer: Testosterone; Leydig cells


Context: A 51-year-old man presents to his primary care physician with 3 months of increasing fatigue. He says that he has been feeling short of breath while walking to his office from the parking lot and is no longer able to participate in recreational activities that he enjoys such as hiking. His wife also comments that he has been looking very pale even though they spend a lot of time outdoors. His past medical history is significant for acute kidney injury after losing blood during a car accident as well as alcoholic hepatitis. Physical exam reveals conjunctival pallor, and a peripheral blood smear is obtained with the finding demonstrate in figure A. Which of the following is associated with the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Increased production of platelet derived growth factor


Context: A 47-year-old man is referred to the outpatient psychiatry clinic for depressed mood. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer recently. Since then, he has not been able to go to work. Over the past several weeks, he has had significant unintentional weight loss and several bouts of epigastric pain. He lost his father to cancer when he was 10 years old. After a complete history and physical examination, the patient is diagnosed with major depressive disorder, provisional. Which of the following statements regarding this patient’s psychiatric condition is true?

Question: Which of the following statements regarding this patient’s psychiatric condition is true?

Answer: This patient must have anhedonia or depressed mood.


Context: A 68-year-old man is admitted to the intensive care unit after open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The patient has received 4 units of packed red blood cells during the surgery. During the first 24 hours following the procedure, he has only passed 200 mL of urine. He has congestive heart failure and hypertension. Current medications include atenolol, enalapril, and spironolactone. He appears ill. His temperature is 37.1°C (98.8°F), pulse is 110/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 110/78 mm Hg. Examination shows dry mucous membranes and flat neck veins. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show a serum creatinine level of 2.0 mg/dL and a BUN of 48 mg/dL. His serum creatinine and BUN on admission were 1.2 mg/dL and 18 mg/dL, respectively. Further evaluation of this patient is most likely to reveal which of the following findings?

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

Answer: Low urine sodium


Context: A 5-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his parents because of 2 episodes of screaming in the night over the past week. The parents report that their son woke up suddenly screaming, crying, and aggressively kicking his legs around both times. The episodes lasted several minutes and were accompanied by sweating and fast breathing. The parents state that they were unable to stop the episodes and that their son simply went back to sleep when the episodes were over. The patient cannot recall any details of these incidents. He has a history of obstructive sleep apnea. He takes no medications. His vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Sleep terror disorder


Context: A 17-year-old boy is brought to the pediatrician by his mother for fatigue. The patient reports that he was supposed to try out for winter track this year, but he had to quit because his “legs just give up.” He also reports increased difficulty breathing with exercise but denies chest pain or palpitations. He has no chronic medical conditions and takes no medications. He has had no surgeries in the past. The mother reports that he met all his pediatric milestones and is an “average” student. He is up-to-date on all childhood vaccinations, including a recent flu vaccine. On physical examination, there is mild lumbar lordosis. The patient’s thighs appear thin in diameter compared to his lower leg muscles, and he walks on his toes. An electrocardiogram shows 1st degree atrioventricular nodal block. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the patient’s condition?

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

Answer: Abnormal dystrophin


Context: An otherwise healthy 1-month-old girl is brought to the physician because of a 1-day history of multiple episodes of bilious vomiting. She is diagnosed with intestinal malrotation and volvulus and undergoes emergency laparotomy. During surgery, a 3 x 3 cm cystic mass is excised from behind the umbilicus. Microscopic examination of the mass shows mature nonciliated columnar epithelium with some goblet cells lining the inner cyst wall. Dilation of which of the following structures is the most likely cause of this patient's mass?

Question: Dilation of which of the following structures is the most likely cause of this patient's mass?

Answer: Vitelline duct


Context:
A 34-year-old woman comes to the emergency department because of right flank pain and vomiting for 5 hours. She has had fever and chills for the past 2 days. She attended a barbecue 3 days ago, where she ate egg salad. She underwent surgery for left ovarian torsion a year ago. Menses occur at regular 28-day intervals and last 5 days. She is sexually active with 2 male partners and uses condoms inconsistently. Her only medication is an oral contraceptive pill. She is 163 cm (5 ft 4 in) tall and weighs 72.5 kg (160 lb); BMI is 27.5 kg/m2. She appears uncomfortable. Her temperature is 38.9°C (102°F), pulse is 101/min, and blood pressure is 118/76 mm Hg. The lungs are clear to auscultation. The right lower quadrant and right flank show severe tenderness to palpation. Pelvic examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 12.8 g/dL
Leukocyte count 14,200/mm3
Platelet count 230,000/mm3
Serum
Na+ 136 mEq/L
K+ 3.8 mEq/L
Cl- 103 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen 23 mg/dL
Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL
Urine
Blood 1+
Protein 1+
Glucose negative
Leukocyte esterase positive
Nitrites negative
RBC 6–8/hpf
WBC 80–85/hpf
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 12.8 g/dL
Leukocyte count 14,200/mm3
Platelet count 230,000/mm3
Serum
Na+ 136 mEq/L
K+ 3.8 mEq/L
Cl- 103 mEq/L
Urea nitrogen 23 mg/dL
Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL
Urine
Blood 1+
Protein 1+
Glucose negative
Leukocyte esterase positive
Nitrites negative
RBC 6–8/hpf
WBC 80–85/hpf
Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?"

Answer: Pyelonephritis


Context: A 5-year-old boy is brought to the pediatrician by his mother for a recurring cough and difficult breathing. He was tentatively diagnosed with asthma last year, and the mother was advised to administer albuterol nebulizers at home when symptoms occur. The boy has only required nebulizers once every 10 days. The mother says his cough is usually accompanied by a prominent wheeze and nebulizers have not been of much help. On examination, the child appears lethargic. His trachea is slightly deviated to the right, and auscultation of the chest reveals diminished breath sounds with a unilateral wheeze on the right. Which of the following pulmonary flow-volume loops best represents this patient’s most likely condition?

Question: Which of the following pulmonary flow-volume loops best represents this patient’s most likely condition?

Answer: Chart C


Context: A 74-year-old African-American woman is brought to the emergency department by her home health aid. The patient was eating breakfast this morning when she suddenly was unable to lift her spoon with her right hand. She attempted to get up from the table, but her right leg felt weak. One hour later in the emergency department, her strength is 0/5 in the right upper and right lower extremities. Strength is normal in her left upper and lower extremities. Sensation is normal bilaterally. An emergency CT of the head does not show signs of hemorrhage. Subsequent brain MRI shows an infarct involving the internal capsule. Which of the following is true about her disease process?

Question: Which of the following is true about her disease process?

Answer: The most important risk factors are hypertension and diabetes


Context: A 60-year-old male presents to your office for follow-up after an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy revealed the presence of esophageal varices. His medical history is significant for cirrhosis caused by heavy alcohol abuse for the past 20 years. He was instructed to follow-up with his primary care physician for management of his condition. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for prevention of future variceal bleeding?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for prevention of future variceal bleeding?

Answer: Nadolol


Context: A 3-year-old boy is taken to the ER by his parents due to his elevated temperature. He has had a fever (>101.1 deg F) for a little over a week, and over that time, his parents noticed his eyes had gotten a little pink, and his palms and soles were red and swollen. His lips and tongue are also peeling. His parents note he has not taken any new medications, and they did not notice any runny nose, sore throat, cough, or changes in his bowel or bladder habits. In the ER, his vitals are as follows: temperature is 101.3 deg F (38.5 deg C), blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg, pulse is 125/min, and respirations are 20/min. His exam is notable for bilateral injected conjunctivae, right-sided cervical lymphadenopathy, erythematous and edematous palms and soles, and erythema multiforme-like rash over his trunk. Appropriate lab tests and imaging were performed. Which of the following is the most worrisome complication of this boy's disease process?

Question: Which of the following is the most worrisome complication of this boy's disease process?

Answer: Coronary artery aneurysms


Context: A 22-year-old woman seeks evaluation at a local walk-in clinic for severe lower abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, and painful intercourse for the last couple of weeks. Her last day of menstruation was 1 week ago, and since then the pain has worsened. She is an out-of-town college student engaged in an open relationship with a fellow classmate and another partner from her hometown. Additional concerns include painful micturition and a low-grade fever for the same duration. The physical examination reveals a heart rate of 120/min, respiratory rate of 24/min, and temperature of 38.6°C (101.5°F). The pelvic examination shows an erythematous cervix with a mucopurulent exudate. The cervix bleeds when manipulated with a swab and is extremely tender with movement. Based on the clinical findings, which of the following agents is the most likely cause of her condition?

Question: Based on the clinical findings, which of the following agents is the most likely cause of her condition?

Answer: Neisseria gonorrhoeae


Context: A 35-year-old man comes to the physician because of a rash on the thigh for 10 days. He reports that the rash has been enlarging and is intensely itchy. Two weeks ago, he adopted a stray dog from an animal shelter. Vital signs are within normal limits. A photograph of the examination findings is shown. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Dermatophyte infection


Context: A 50-year-old man with hypertension comes to the physician for a routine follow-up evaluation. His blood pressure is 146/98 mm Hg. The physician wishes to prescribe lisinopril. The patient says that his blood pressure is high when he is “anxious” and requests alprazolam instead of lisinopril. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial response by the physician?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate initial response by the physician?

Answer: “What have you heard about the use of alprazolam to treat high blood pressure?”


Context: A 78-year-old right-handed male is brought in by ambulance after being found down in his home. After being aroused, the patient has difficulty answering questions and appears to be frustrated by his inability to communicate. He is able to speak his name and a few other words but his speech is not fluent. Subsequent neurologic exam finds that the patient is able to comprehend both one and two step instructions; however, he is unable to repeat phrases despite being able to understand them. He also has difficulty writing despite retaining fine motor control. CT reveals an acute stroke to his left hemisphere. Damage to which of the following sets of structures would be most likely to result in this pattern of deficits?

Question: Damage to which of the following sets of structures would be most likely to result in this pattern of deficits?

Answer: Inferior frontal gyrus


Context: A 66-year-old man presents to the emergency department for a 1-hour history of right arm weakness. He was having breakfast this morning when his right arm suddenly became weak, causing him to drop his coffee mug. He also noticed that he was slurring his speech and had some additional weakness in his right leg. He had no symptoms prior to the onset of the weakness and noted no other unusual phenomena. These symptoms lasted for about 30 minutes, but they resolved completely by the time he arrived at the emergency department. His medical history is notable for hypertension and hyperlipidemia, but he does not receive close follow-up from a primary care physician for these conditions. The patient currently is not taking any medications. His pulse is 75/min, the blood pressure is 160/95 mm Hg, and the respiratory rate is 14/min. Physical exam is remarkable for a high-pitched sound heard on auscultation of the neck, the remainder of the exam, including a complete neurological exam, is entirely unremarkable. CT angiography of the head and neck shows no active hemorrhage and 80% stenosis of the left internal carotid artery. Which of the following is the next best step in the long-term management of this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the next best step in the long-term management of this patient?

Answer: Carotid endarterectomy


Context: A 62-year-old woman is seen in the hospital for neutropenic fever. She was admitted 1 week ago for newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia. Due to her chemotherapy, she became pancytopenic. Last night, during a packed red blood cell transfusion, she became febrile to 102.6°F (39.3°C), her blood pressure was 92/55, pulse was 112/min, respirations were 16/min, and oxygen saturation was 94% on room air. The transfusion was stopped, intravenous fluids were started, and blood cultures were drawn. The patient also complained of chest pain and shortness of breath. A chest radiograph was obtained and was normal. This morning, she reports “dark urine” but denies dysuria or abnormal vaginal discharge. Her prophylactic antimicrobials started at the time of her chemotherapy include acyclovir, levofloxacin, and fluconazole. The patient’s temperature this morning is 98.7°F (37.1°C), blood pressure is 110/72 mmHg, pulse is 88/min, and respirations are 17/min with an oxygen saturation of 95% on room air. On physical examination, she has 1+ pitting peripheral edema of bilateral lower extremities to the mid-shin. Her jugular venous pressure is 6 cm. Her labs show neutropenia, normocytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated lactose dehydrogenase, elevated total bilirubin, and decreased haptoglobin. Coagulation studies show an increase in bleeding time with normal D-dimer levels. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the patient’s symptoms?

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

Answer: ABO incompatibility


Context: A 3-year-old African-American boy presents with a rapid onset of severe abdominal pain. He has a palpably enlarged mass in the left upper quadrant of his abdomen. Complete blood count is notable for a hemoglobin of 7.2 g/dL. Serum haptoglobin level returns normal. Serum unconjugated bilirubin is elevated. The corrected reticulocyte count is elevated. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the findings above?

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

Answer: Extravascular hemolysis


Context: A 62-year-old man comes to the physician because of a persistent cough for the past 2 weeks. During this time, he has also had occasional discomfort in his chest. Three weeks ago, he had a sore throat, headache, and a low-grade fever, which were treated with acetaminophen and rest. He has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia. His father died of myocardial infarction at the age of 57 years. He has smoked a pack of cigarettes daily for the past 40 years. Current medications include enalapril and atorvastatin. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 70/min, and blood pressure is 145/90 mm Hg. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. An x-ray of the chest is shown. 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: CT scan of the chest


Context: A 31-year-old male with cirrhosis, dementia, and Parkinson-like symptoms is diagnosed with a hereditary metabolic disease resulting from the accumulation of a certain metal in various tissues. Impairment of which of the following elimination pathways is most likely responsible?

Question: Impairment of which of the following elimination pathways is most likely responsible?

Answer: Secretion into bile


Context: An x-ray of the chest shows an extensive consolidation within the right lower lobe consistent with lobar pneumonia. Sputum and blood cultures are sent to the laboratory for analysis, and empiric antibiotic treatment with intravenous cefotaxime is begun. Which of the following is most likely to have prevented this patient's pneumonia?

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

Answer: Incentive spirometry


Context: A 58-year-old man with history of diabetes and hypertension suffers a cardiac arrest at home. The family calls 911, yet no one performs CPR. Five minutes after the arrest, EMS arrives to begin resuscitation. At this point, which region of the CNS is most likely to suffer ischemic damage?

Question: At this point, which region of the CNS is most likely to suffer ischemic damage?

Answer: Hippocampus


Context: A 77-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus is admitted to the hospital because of chest pain and dyspnea. Serum troponin levels are elevated and an ECG shows ST-segment depressions in the lateral leads. Percutaneous coronary angiography is performed and occlusion of the distal left anterior descending coronary artery is identified. Pharmacotherapy with eptifibatide is initiated and a drug-eluting stent is placed in the left anterior descending coronary artery. The mechanism by which eptifibatide acts is similar to the underlying pathophysiology of which of the following conditions?

Question: The mechanism by which eptifibatide acts is similar to the underlying pathophysiology of which of the following conditions?

Answer: Glanzmann thrombasthenia


Context: A 66-year-old man comes to the physician for a follow-up examination after a below-knee amputation of the right lower leg. Three weeks ago, he had an acute arterial embolism that could not be revascularized in time to save the leg. He now reports episodic hot, shooting, and tingling pain in the right lower leg that began shortly after the amputation. He has type 2 diabetes mellitus. He has smoked one pack of cigarettes daily for the past 30 years. His current medications are metformin and prophylactic subcutaneous heparin. His temperature is 37.1°C (98.8°F), pulse is 78/min, and blood pressure is 135/88 mm Hg. Physical examination shows a slightly erythematous stump with clean sutures. The skin overlying the stump is warm and well-perfused. Muscle strength and sensation are normal throughout the remaining extremity and the left lower extremity. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Phantom limb pain


Context: Four days after undergoing liver transplantation, a 47-year-old man develops fever, chills, malaise, and confusion while in the intensive care unit. His temperature is 39.1°C (102.4°F). Blood cultures grow an organism. Microscopic examination of this organism after incubation at 25°C (77°F) for 3 hours is shown. Which of the following is the most likely causal organism of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Candida albicans


Context: An 18-year-old man presents to his primary care provider for a routine checkup. He feels well and has no complaints. He is the captain of his high school football team and will be attending college on a football scholarship the following year. His past medical history is unremarkable. He underwent a laparoscopic appendectomy at age 13. He takes no medications and has no allergies. His temperature is 99.1°F (37.3°C), blood pressure is 155/85 mmHg, pulse is 96/min, and respirations are 16/min. On examination, he has severe nodulocystic acne. He has gained 15 pounds and 1/2 inch in height since his last visit one year ago. Mild gynecomastia and testicular shrinkage are noted. This patient is at the greatest risk of developing which of the following?

Question: This patient is at the greatest risk of developing which of the following?

Answer: Hepatic adenoma


Context: A 72-year-old man with a 4-year history of Parkinson disease comes to the physician for evaluation of his medication. Since his last visit one year ago, he has had increased tremor and bradykinesia up to an hour before his next scheduled dose and sometimes feels like he does not respond to some doses at all. One week ago, he was entirely unable to move for about a minute when he wanted to exit an elevator. The physician prescribes a drug that increases the bioavailability of levodopa by preferentially preventing its peripheral methylation. This patient was most likely prescribed which of the following drugs by the physician?

Question: This patient was most likely prescribed which of the following drugs by the physician?

Answer: Entacapone


Context: A 31-year-old woman has a follow-up visit with her psychiatrist. She was recently diagnosed with major depressive disorder and was started on citalopram 3 months ago. Her dosage was increased one time 6 weeks ago. She has come in to discuss her progress and notes that she feels “normal again” and “happier” and has not experienced her usual feelings of depression, crying spells, or insomnia. Her appetite has also improved and she is performing better at work, stating that she has more focus and motivation to complete her assignments. During the beginning of her treatment, she states that she had occasional headaches and diarrhea, but that she no longer has those side effects. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in this patient’s management?

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

Answer: Maintain the current dose of citalopram for several months


Context: A 43-year-old construction worker presents to the emergency department two hours after sustaining a deep laceration to his left forearm by a piece of soiled and rusted sheet metal. His vital signs are stable, there is no active bleeding, his pain is well controlled, and a hand surgeon has been notified about damage to his forearm tendons. He does not recall receiving any vaccinations in the last 30 years and does not know if he was vaccinated as a child. What is the appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis?

Question: What is the appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis?

Answer: Tetanus vaccine + immunoglobulin


Context: A 53-year-old woman presents with a feeling of pelvic pressure which worsens with prolonged standing, pain on sexual intercourse, and lower back pain. She reports no urinary or fecal incontinence. She is G3P3 with no history of any gynecological disease and is premenopausal. All pregnancies were without complication and resolved with full-term vaginal deliveries. The patient has sex with her husband who is her single sexual partner and uses oral contraceptives. Her vital signs are within normal limits and physical examination is unremarkable. A gynecological examination reveals bulging of the posterior vaginal wall in the lower portion of the vagina which increases in the upright position and Valsalva maneuver. The cervix is in its normal position. The uterus is not enlarged, ovaries are nonpalpable. Damage to which of the following structures might contribute to the patient’s condition?

Question: Damage to which of the following structures might contribute to the patient’s condition?

Answer: Rectovaginal fascia


Context: A 64-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a 1-hour history of shortness of breath and chest pain. She said that the symptoms came on suddenly and that the chest pain is worse when she tries to take a deep breath. Her past medical history is significant for a previous deep venous thrombosis for which she was taking a blood thinner. She also has diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and partial seizures which are treated with metformin, lisinopril, atorvastatin, and carbamazepine and valproic acid, respectively. Which of these drugs is most likely responsible for causing this patient's blood thinner medications to fail?

Question: Which of these drugs is most likely responsible for causing this patient's blood thinner medications to fail?

Answer: Carbamazepine


Context: 5 days after receiving chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, a 74-year-old woman comes to the physician for a follow-up examination. She feels well and has no complaints. Her leukocyte count is 3,500/mm3 (11% neutrophils and 89% lymphocytes). This patient's profound granulocytopenia is most likely to predispose her to infection with which of the following organisms?

Question: This patient's profound granulocytopenia is most likely to predispose her to infection with which of the following organisms?

Answer: Enterococcus faecalis


Context: A 60-year-old man presents to your office because he noticed a "weird patch" on the floor of his mouth. He states that he noticed it a few months ago, but did not report it because it did not hurt. However, he is concerned because it has not regressed and seems to have changed in shape. On examination, you notice the patient has poor dentition and he admits to using chewing tobacco daily. The patch on the floor of his mouth is red with irregular borders. Which of the following would be an appropriate way to counsel this patient on his current condition?

Question: Which of the following would be an appropriate way to counsel this patient on his current condition?

Answer: This lesion necessitates biopsy.


Context: A 58-year-old woman comes to the physician for evaluation of worsening fatigue for 1 week. She also has a 1-year history of hand pain and stiffness. Four months ago, she started a new medication for these symptoms. Medications used prior to that included ibuprofen, prednisone, and hydroxychloroquine. Examination shows a subcutaneous nodule on her left elbow and old joint destruction with Boutonniere deformity. Her hemoglobin concentration is 10.1 g/dL, leukocyte count is 3400/mm3, and platelet count is 101,000/mm3. Methylmalonic acid levels are normal. Which of the following could have prevented this patient's laboratory abnormalities?

Question: Which of the following could have prevented this patient's laboratory abnormalities?

Answer: Leucovorin


Context: A 32-year-old previously healthy female presents to her primary care physician with double vision. She first noted the double vision yesterday and saw no improvement this morning. She does not think it is worsening. She has not had any changes in her normal routine though she recalls one episode of right arm weakness 2 months ago. She did not seek treatment and the weakness subsided after several days. She does not have a history of head trauma. She denies headache, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, paresthesias, extremity pain, or weakness. On exam she has right adduction palsy on leftward gaze. She has no focal weakness. Which of the following additional physical exam findings is associated with the lesion responsible for her ocular findings?

Question: Which of the following additional physical exam findings is associated with the lesion responsible for her ocular findings?

Answer: Horizontal nystagmus in the left eye on leftward gaze


Context: A team of researchers is investigating different mechanisms of transmitting sensory information in the body. They are particularly interested in the different types of sensory receptors. From a sample of tissue, they isolate a receptor that is encased in deep skin layers and joints. The receptor adapts quickly and they discover its role is to sense vibration and pressure. Which of the following types of nerve fibers is most likely used by this receptor to transmit sensory information?

Question: Which of the following types of nerve fibers is most likely used by this receptor to transmit sensory information?

Answer: Large, myelinated fibers


Context: A 28-year-old African American woman comes to the emergency department with intermittent and progressively worsening dizziness with near-fainting incidents for the last 3 weeks. She denies fever, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or chest pain. Her medical history is significant for a chronic cough and intermittent skin rashes that spontaneously resolved after a few weeks. She does not smoke tobacco but drinks alcohol socially. The patient lives alone with no pets. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), blood pressure is 122/80 mm Hg, pulse is 43/min, and respirations are 12/min. On physical examination, cervical lymphadenopathy is noted. No heart murmurs are heard. ECG shows sinus rhythm with 2:1 atrioventricular block and left bundle branch block. Chest X-ray shows prominent hilar lymphadenopathy. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Sarcoidosis


Context: A 36-year-old woman comes to the physician for evaluation of unintentional weight gain of 5.5 kg (12.2 lb) and irregular menstrual cycles over the past 2 months. She does not take any medications. Her blood pressure is 155/85 mm Hg. Physical examination shows central obesity, hyperpigmentation of the palmar creases, and violaceous scarring of the abdomen. Early morning serum cortisol levels are elevated and serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is within the reference range after a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test. A high-dose dexamethasone suppression test shows suppression of ACTH. Further evaluation is most likely to show which of the following findings?

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

Answer: Bilateral hyperplasia of the zona fasciculata


Context: A 45-year-old gentleman with a history of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus is referred to a nephrologist for evaluation of the possibility of early stage kidney failure. Upon evaluation, the nephrologist decides to assess the patient's renal plasma flow by performing a laboratory test. Which of the following substances would be the best for estimating this value?

Question: Which of the following substances would be the best for estimating this value?

Answer: Para-aminohippurate (PAH)


Context: A 43-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 2-week history of malaise, nausea, and a 3-kg (6.6-lb) weight loss. She has been drinking 8–9 alcoholic beverages daily for the past 20 years. Her temperature is 37.8°C (100°F) and pulse is 105/min. Examination shows jaundice and hepatosplenomegaly. A photomicrograph of a section of a biopsy specimen of the liver is shown. Which of the following mechanisms best explains the findings shown?

Question: Which of the following mechanisms best explains the findings shown?

Answer: Increased glycerol 3-phosphate formation


Context:
A 48-year-old female with a history of hypertension, type II diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, and asthma undergoes a scheduled total abdominal hysterectomy for symptomatic fibroids. She is given a dose of preoperative prophylactic antibiotics. Her urinary catheter is removed on post-operative day one. She is on low-molecular-weight heparin for deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis. On post-operative day four, the patient complains of abdominal pain. She denies cough, nausea, vomiting, or dysuria, but has had 3-4 loose stools over her hospitalization. Her temperature is 101.0°F (38.3°C), blood pressure is 97/59 mmHg, pulse is 106/min, and respirations are 16/min. The surgical wound has new erythema with dusky patches and abundant cloudy discharge. The patient reports new decreased sensation around her wound site. Her lungs are clear to auscultation and abdomen is soft with hypoactive bowel sounds. She has no costovertebral angle tenderness. Urinalysis is within normal limits and urine culture grows >100,000 CFU/mL of Escherichia coli.

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

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

Answer: Vancomycin/piperacillin-tazobactam/clindamycin and debridement of the surgical wound


Context: A 1-month-old boy is brought to the emergency department 25 minutes after having a seizure. His mother reports that he has become lethargic and does not cry as vigorously anymore. Examination shows muscular hypotonia and hepatomegaly. Arterial blood gas on room air shows metabolic acidosis. Serum studies show elevated levels of methylmalonic acid. A deficiency of which of the following types of enzymes is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Question: A deficiency of which of the following types of enzymes is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

Answer: Mutase


Context: A 22-year-old patient presents to the rural medicine clinic for a physical examination. She has a past medical history of major depressive disorder. The patient has a history of smoking 1 pack of cigarettes daily for 5 years. She states that she is not currently sexually active, but had sexual intercourse in the past. Her paternal grandfather died of a heart attack at the age of 60. She takes citalopram by mouth once every morning. The blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg, the heart rate is 76/min, and the respiratory rate is 12/min. Her physical examination reveals a well-nourished, alert, and oriented female. While auscultating the heart, a 2/6 holosystolic murmur at the left upper sternal border is present. Which of the following would be the most appropriate next step for this patient?

Question: Which of the following would be the most appropriate next step for this patient?

Answer: Pap smear


Context: A 66-year-old homeless HIV-positive male presents with numbness in his hands and feet. The patient says that his symptoms started gradually a couple weeks ago and have slowly worsened. He describes numbness initially in just his fingertips and toes but it has now spread to involve his entire hands and feet. Past medical history is significant for HIV diagnosed many years ago, for which the patient has never sought treatment. The patient also has a long history of various illnesses, especially chronic diarrhea, but he is unable to remember any details. He currently takes no medications. The patient has been homeless for years, and he denies any alcohol or drug use. Review of systems is significant for a sore tongue. His temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), blood pressure is 100/65 mm Hg, pulse is 102/min, respiratory rate is 25/min, and oxygen saturation is 97% on room air. On physical exam, the patient is alert and oriented, his body habitus is cachectic, and his BMI is 17 kg/m2. His tongue appears erythematous and smooth with loss of papillae, but no lesions or evidence of infection is noted. Cardiac exam is normal apart from tachycardia. Lungs are clear to auscultation. His abdomen is soft and nontender with no hepatosplenomegaly. There is decreased 2-point discrimination in the hands and feet bilaterally. Strength in the hands and feet is 4/5 bilaterally. Reflexes are absent in the ankles. Gait is slightly wide-based and ataxic, and there is a positive Romberg sign. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient’s symptoms?

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

Answer: Elevated levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA)


Context: A 47-year-old woman presents to the emergency department in a frantic state and demands immediate treatment for an allergic reaction, which started soon after she had lunch (approximately 1 hour ago). She had her usual meal consisting of homemade salad and lemonade. She was recently started on niacin because she could not tolerate statins. The only other medication she takes is captopril for hypertension. She has no respiratory difficulty and denies rhinorrhea, epiphora, and diarrhea. She is complaining of a stinging sensation on her face. She has no history of allergies and no family history of allergies. The vital signs include: pulse 90/min, respirations 16/min, blood pressure 120/80 mm Hg, and oxygen saturation, 98% on room air. On physical examination, the face and trunk have a flushed appearance. The rest of the physical examination is unremarkable. The attending physician reassures her that she is not in any immediate danger, and in fact, her symptoms subsided over the next hour. She is advised to take aspirin 30 minutes before her other medications and sent home. Which of the following is the etiology of her symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is the etiology of her symptoms?

Answer: Prostaglandin release


Context: A 51-year-old man comes to the physician for 2 months of intermittent low-grade fever, malaise, and joint pain. He has a history of recurrent dental abscesses requiring drainage but has otherwise been healthy. His temperature is 38.3°C (100.9°F) and pulse is 112/min. Physical examination shows a new holosystolic murmur in the left midclavicular line that radiates to the axilla. There are linear reddish-brown lesions underneath the nail beds and tender violaceous nodules on the bilateral thenar eminences. Two sets of blood cultures grow Streptococcus mutans. A transthoracic echocardiogram shows moderate regurgitation of the mitral valve. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely directly involved in the pathogenesis of this patient's valvular condition?

Question: Which of the following mechanisms is most likely directly involved in the pathogenesis of this patient's valvular condition?

Answer: Fibrin clot formation


Context: A 4-year-old boy is brought to the physician by his mother because of painless lesions on his face that he has had since shortly after birth. They recently moved to the USA from Indonesia where they had limited access to healthcare. A photograph of the lesions is shown. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Infantile hemangioma


Context: A 30-year-old man is diagnosed with multi-drug resistant tuberculosis after a recent trip to Eastern Europe. After drug susceptibility testing is completed, he is given a regimen of antibiotics as treatment. He returns two weeks later complaining of decreased visual acuity and color-blindness. Which drug of the following is the mechanism of action of the drug that is most likely to cause this side effect?

Question: Which drug of the following is the mechanism of action of the drug that is most likely to cause this side effect?

Answer: Inhibition of arabinogalactan synthesis


Context: A 5-year-old boy is brought to the physician because of intermittent abdominal cramps and recurrent episodes of foul-smelling greasy diarrhea for 3 months. He has a history of recurrent upper respiratory infection. The abdomen is diffusely tender to palpation and resonant to percussion. A photomicrograph of a stool sample is shown. This patient is at increased risk for which of the following?

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

Answer: Hypersensitivity reaction to transfusion


Context: A 23-year-old man comes to the emergency department for 2 days of severe headaches. The pain is most intense on his left forehead and eye. He had similar symptoms last summer. He has been taking indomethacin every 6 hours for the last 24 hours but has not had any relief. He has smoked 1 pack of cigarettes daily for the past 5 years. He works as an accountant and describes his work as very stressful. Physical examination shows drooping of the left eyelid, tearing of the left eye, and rhinorrhea. The left pupil is 2 mm and the right pupil is 4 mm. There is localized tenderness along the right supraspinatus muscle. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Cluster headache


Context: A research group wants to assess the relationship between childhood diet and cardiovascular disease in adulthood. A prospective cohort study of 500 children between 10 to 15 years of age is conducted in which the participants' diets are recorded for 1 year and then the patients are assessed 20 years later for the presence of cardiovascular disease. A statistically significant association is found between childhood consumption of vegetables and decreased risk of hyperlipidemia and exercise tolerance. When these findings are submitted to a scientific journal, a peer reviewer comments that the researchers did not discuss the study's validity. Which of the following additional analyses would most likely address the concerns about this study's design?

Question: Which of the following additional analyses would most likely address the concerns about this study's design?

Answer: Stratification


Context: A 40-year-old male with Down syndrome is brought to your clinic by his mother. She reports that over the past few months he has started having difficulty managing his daily routine at his assisted-living facility and no longer seems like himself. She says that last week he wandered away from the facility and was brought back by police. Additionally, he has stopped taking his regular antiepileptic medication, and she is concerned that he might have a seizure. TSH is checked and is normal. Which of the following is most likely to be responsible for this man's current presentation?

Question: Which of the following is most likely to be responsible for this man's current presentation?

Answer: Abnormal protein metabolism


Context: A 14-year-old Caucasian male patient found to have low serum copper, high urine copper, and low serum ceruloplasmin is placed on penicillamine for management of his genetic disorder. Which of the following is LEAST consistent with this patient's clinical picture?

Question: Which of the following is LEAST consistent with this patient's clinical picture?

Answer: Kinky, easily breakable hair


Context: A 59-year-old man is brought to the emergency department 30 minutes after having a seizure. His wife reports that the patient has been having recurrent headaches and has become increasingly irritable over the past 3 months. Physical examination shows a spastic paresis of the right lower extremity. The Babinski sign is present on the right side. An MRI of the brain is shown. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Meningioma


Context: A high-throughput screen to identify new sympathomimetic compounds was developed such that a transgenic line of cells was created that contained the alpha-1 (red), alpha-2 (yellow), beta-1 (green) and beta-2 (blue) receptors. When each of the receptors was activated a different fluorescent protein was expressed and new compounds with different properties could be identified by the fluorescence that they induced. Compound 7583 selectively induced the expression of the blue fluorescent protein. Which of the following known sympathomimetic medications if administered would similarly result in expression of only the blue fluorescent protein?

Question: Which of the following known sympathomimetic medications if administered would similarly result in expression of only the blue fluorescent protein?

Answer: Albuterol


Context: A 53-year-old man is brought by his daughter to the clinic. She lives a town away but visits often. She reports that on recent visits, his mood has been volatile, ranging from aggressive at some moments to depressed at others. She has noticed some new jerky movements which she has never seen before and has been quite forgetful. She is concerned that he might be abusing alcohol and drugs. What changes would you expect in the brain of this patient?

Question: What changes would you expect in the brain of this patient?

Answer: Decreased GABA at the caudate


Context: A male newborn is delivered at term to a 30-year-old woman. Pregnancy and delivery were uncomplicated. At birth, the umbilical cord is noted to be large. When the newborn cries, straw-colored fluid leaks from the umbilicus. The external genitalia appear normal. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this newborn's symptoms?

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

Answer: Failed obliteration of an allantoic remnant


Context: A medical student is performing research on the properties of viruses in order to determine the transmission patterns of various organisms. He accidentally drops a rack of tubes and spills various virus samples on the benchtop. Upon seeing this, the laboratory technician wipes down the workbench with alcohol in order to clean up the spill. Which of the following organisms would most likely still be alive after this cleaning?

Question: Which of the following organisms would most likely still be alive after this cleaning?

Answer: Adenovirus and rhinovirus


Context: An 3-year-old boy is brought in to his pediatrician by his mother after she noticed that the child was starting to turn yellow. She has not noticed any behavioral changes. On exam, the boy is icteric but is behaving normally. His temperature is 98.8°F (37.1°C), blood pressure is 108/78 mmHg, pulse is 78/min, and respirations are 14/min. His labs are drawn, and he is found to have an unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia with a serum bilirubin of 15 mg/dL. The mother is counseled that this boy’s condition may require phenobarbital as a treatment to reduce his bilirubin levels. Which of the following is the most likely defect in this child?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely defect in this child?

Answer: Reduced UDP-glucuronosyltransferase activity


Context: A 20-year-old woman presents to the emergency department after developing a widespread rash when she was playing in the park. She states she feels somewhat light-headed. She is otherwise healthy and has no significant past medical history. Her temperature is 97.0°F (36.1°C), blood pressure is 84/54 mmHg, pulse is 130/min, respirations are 22/min, and oxygen saturation is 95% on room air. Physical exam is notable for bilateral wheezing and a diffuse urticarial rash. Which of the following is the next best step in management?

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

Answer: Epinephrine


Context: A 55-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis comes to the physician because of a 3-month history of worsening fatigue and dyspnea. She has felt short-of-breath when walking up the stairs to her apartment. Menopause occurred 5 years ago. Her medications are methotrexate and folic acid supplementation. Physical examination shows conjunctival pallor, tenderness of bilateral wrists and knees, and ulnar deviation of the fingers. Her hematocrit is 27%, mean corpuscular volume is 84 μm3, and serum ferritin is 375 ng/mL. Which of the following has most likely contributed to the patient's current symptoms?

Question: Which of the following has most likely contributed to the patient's current symptoms?

Answer: Increased release of hepcidin by hepatocytes


Context: A 65-year-old man presents with complaints of weakness and swollen gums for the past 3 weeks. He also says he cut his finger while cooking, and the bleeding took more than 10 minutes to stop. He has a family history of diabetes mellitus type 2 and prostate cancer. Current medications are multivitamin. His blood pressure is 122/67 mm Hg, the respiratory rate is 13/min, and the temperature is 36.7°C (98.0°F). On physical examination, the patient seems pale and lethargic. On cardiac exam, a pulmonary valve flow murmur is heard. There is significant hepatosplenomegaly present, and several oral mucosal petechiae in the oral cavity are noted. Gum hypertrophy is also present. A peripheral blood smear reveals myeloperoxidase-positive cells and Auer Rods. A bone marrow biopsy shows > 30% of blast cells. Which of the following chromosomal abnormalities is associated with this patient’s most likely diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following chromosomal abnormalities is associated with this patient’s most likely diagnosis?

Answer: t(15;17)


Context: An otherwise healthy 16-year-old girl comes to the physician because she has not had a menstrual period. Examination shows normal breast development. There is coarse pubic and axillary hair. Pelvic examination shows a blind vaginal pouch. Ultrasonography shows normal ovaries and an atretic uterus. 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: Agenesis of the paramesonephric duct


Context: A 75-year-old woman is being treated for atrial fibrillation. She presents to the clinic with complaints of nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and yellow-green vision with yellow halos around the lights. She has a heart rate of 64/min, blood pressure is 118/76 mm Hg, and respiratory rate is 15/min. Physical examination reveals regular heart sounds with clear lung sounds bilaterally. Liver function tests are normal. Toxicity of which of the following anti-arrhythmic drugs would best fit this clinical picture?

Question: Toxicity of which of the following anti-arrhythmic drugs would best fit this clinical picture?

Answer: Digoxin


Context: A 40-year-old man is rushed to the emergency department after being involved in a motor vehicle accident. He has lacerations on his right arm and some minor abrasions on his face and lower limbs. The resident on call quickly manages the patient with proper care of his open wounds in the emergency department. The patient is admitted to the surgery unit for the daily care of his wounds. His lacerations begin to heal with proper dressing and occasional debridement. Which of the following best describes the healing process in this patient?

Question: Which of the following best describes the healing process in this patient?

Answer: Healing by secondary intention will occur along with the deposition of large amount of granulation tissue.


Context: Hormone balance is essential for maintaining a normal pregnancy. Early on, elevated progesterone levels are needed to maintain pregnancy and progesterone is produced in excess by the corpus luteum. In the normal menstrual cycle the corpus luteum involutes, but this process is impeded during pregnancy because of the presence of which hormone?

Question: In the normal menstrual cycle the corpus luteum involutes, but this process is impeded during pregnancy because of the presence of which hormone?

Answer: Human chorionic gonadotropin


Context: A 32-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of worsening shortness of breath and a productive cough for 3 days. He sustained trauma to the right hemithorax during a fight 3 weeks ago. He had significant pain and mild shortness of breath following the incident but did not seek medical care. He does not smoke or drink alcohol. He is a construction worker. His temperature is 38.4°C (101.1°F), pulse is 95/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 120/75 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 96%. Pulmonary examination shows decreased breath sounds over the right lower lung fields. CT scan of the chest shows fractures of the right 7th and 8th ribs, right pleural splitting and thickening, and a dense fluid collection in the pleural space. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Pleural empyema


Context: A cross-sectional oral health survey was designed to assess both functional and psychosocial effects of dental disease on the elderly population of Buda, Texas (US). Printed surveys that consisted of 50 open-ended questions on dental disease history and dental hygiene were mailed to the selected members of a target population. However, the response rate was not satisfactory, as a large percentage of the selected study participants either did not return the survey or failed to answer all of the questions posed. The researchers opted for 2 strategies: prompt those who did not respond with a second letter that guaranteed complete confidentiality and broaden the pool of selected participants. Depending on the final response rate and the researchers’ statistical skills, the bias in the final publication will be more pronounced if...?

Question: Depending on the final response rate and the researchers’ statistical skills, the bias in the final publication will be more pronounced if...?

Answer: ...the difference between the observed and nonrespondent answers is increased.


Context: A 16-year-old boy is brought to the physician for a follow-up examination. He has a 6-year history of type 1 diabetes mellitus and his only medication is insulin. Seven months ago, he was treated for an episode of diabetic ketoacidosis. He has previously been compliant with his diet and insulin regimen. He wants to join the high school soccer team. Vital signs are within normal limits. His hemoglobin A1C is 6.3%. Which of the following is the most appropriate recommendation at this time?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate recommendation at this time?

Answer: Lower insulin dosage on days of exercise


Context: A 58-year-old woman comes to the physician because of headaches for 1 month. She describes them as 7 out of 10 in intensity. She has no nausea. Two years ago, she was treated for invasive lobular carcinoma of the left breast. She underwent a left mastectomy and multiple cycles of chemotherapy. She has been in good health since this treatment. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 90/min, and blood pressure is 118/72 mm Hg. There is a well-healed scar on the left side of the chest. There is no lymphadenopathy. The abdomen is soft and nontender; there is no organomegaly. Neurologic examination shows no focal findings. An MRI of the brain shows a 4-cm temporal hyperintense mass near the surface of the brain. 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: Surgical resection


Context: A 44-year-old man presents to his primary care physician due to a shock-like pain in his left leg. He describes the pain as sharp and lasting a few minutes at a time. He has noticed being "clumsy" when walking in a dark room. Approximately 2 weeks ago, he was helping his daughter move and this required him to lift heavy boxes. He denies any trauma to the back or lower back pain. Medical history is significant for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. He is currently sexually active and is in a monogamous relationship with his wife. Approximately 15 years ago, he noted a painless genital lesion. On physical exam, there is a miotic pupil that does not constrict with light but constricts with convergence and accommodation. Strength, reflex, and sensory exam of the lower extremity is unremarkable. The patient has a positive Romberg test. 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: Sexually transmitted infection


Context: The VALIANT trial compared the effect of captopril and valsartan on mortality in patients with myocardial infarction complicated by heart failure. Subjects were randomly assigned to treatment with either captopril or valsartan and subsequently followed for 2 years. The primary endpoint was death from any cause. The study concluded that valsartan was as effective as captopril in patients who are at high risk for cardiac events after an MI. Which of the following describes this type of study?

Question: Which of the following describes this type of study?

Answer: Randomized controlled trial


Context: A 45-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 3-month history of mild right upper abdominal pain. She has not had any fevers, chills, or weight loss. There is no personal or family history of serious illness. Medications include transdermal estrogen, which she recently started taking for symptoms related to menopause. Abdominal examination shows no abnormalities. Ultrasonography of the liver shows a well-demarcated, homogeneous, hyperechoic mass surrounded by normal liver tissue. A biopsy of the lesion would put this patient at greatest risk for which of the following complications?

Question: A biopsy of the lesion would put this patient at greatest risk for which of the following complications?

Answer: Intraperitoneal hemorrhage