Context: A 32-year-old man jumps off a 3 story building during a suicide attempt. Paramedics arrive quickly, and he is taken to the hospital where several stable lumbar fractures and a shattered right calcaneus are found. He undergoes surgery and his calcaneus is repaired with 11 screws. Which of the following statements best describes the long term post-surgery outcome in this patient?

Question: Which of the following statements best describes the long term post-surgery outcome in this patient?

Answer: He will have pain with inversion and eversion of his foot.


Context:
A 46-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of a 4-week history of fatigue and headache that have gotten progressively worse. He has allergic asthma treated with inhaled salbutamol. He immigrated to the USA from Thailand 9 years ago. He lives by himself and works as a waiter in a restaurant. He has had 6 lifetime male sexual partners and uses condoms inconsistently. He drinks 1–2 beers daily. His temperature is 38.2°C (100.8°F), pulse is 88/min, and blood pressure is 128/76 mm Hg. Examination of the mouth shows several white patches on the tongue and oral mucosa that can be easily scraped off with a tongue blade. On mental status examination, the patient is somnolent and has short-term memory deficits. The remainder of the examination shows no abnormalities. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 13.6 g/dL
Leukocyte count 9,600/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 80%
Eosinophils 1%
Lymphocytes 17%
Monocytes 2%
CD4+ T-lymphocytes 80/mm3 (Normal ≥ 500)
Platelet count 328,000/mm3
Serum
pH 7.36
Na+ 135 mEq/L
Cl- 101 mEq/L
K+ 4.8 mEq/L
HCO3- 22 mEq/L
Glucose 95 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL
BUN 16 mg/dL
Bilirubin, total 0.7 mg/dL
AST 13 U/L
ALT 15 U/L
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 10 mm/hour
HIV test positive
A lumbar puncture is performed and an opening pressure of 150 mm H2O is noted. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis shows a leukocyte count of 25/mm3 (60% lymphocytes), protein concentration of 52 mg/dL, and a glucose concentration of 37 mg/dL. India ink stain shows organisms with prominent capsules. Blood cultures are drawn. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's neurological symptoms?"

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

Answer: Amphotericin B and flucytosine


Context: A previously healthy 16-year-old boy comes to the physician because of a 5-day history of pain at the back of his left ankle. His mother had a myocardial infarction at 54 years. His BMI is 23 kg/m2. There is tenderness above the left posterior calcaneus and a firm, 3-cm, skin-colored nodule that moves with the left Achilles tendon. A photomicrograph from a biopsy of the nodule is shown. Serum studies in this patient are most likely to show increased levels of which of the following?

Question: Serum studies in this patient are most likely to show increased levels of which of the following?

Answer: Low-density lipoprotein


Context: A 3-year-old boy presents with episodic diarrhea with malodorous stools, stunted growth, occasional abdominal cramps, and an itchy rash. His mother says that these symptoms developed approximately 2 years ago. The patient was exclusively breastfed up to the age of 7 months. Supplementary feeding was started with non-starchy vegetable followed by starchy vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and bread. Bread and cookies were the last product to be introduced at the age of 12 months. The patient’s mother tried to withdraw dairy products from the patient’s diet because she heard that lactose can cause such symptoms, but it did not help. The patient’s vital signs include: blood pressure 90/55 mm Hg, heart rate 101/min, respiratory rate 19/min, and temperature 36.3℃ (97.3℉). His weight is 11 kg (24.2 lb, -2 SD) and height is 90 cm (2 ft 11 in, -1 SD). On physical examination, the patient’s skin is pale with a papulovesicular rash on his abdomen and back. There are a few aphthous ulcers in the oral cavity. The abdomen is distended but no tenderness to palpation. No hepatosplenomegaly. An immunological assay is performed and shows positive anti-transglutaminase and anti-endomysial antibodies. Which of the following changes would you most likely expect to see on intestinal biopsy in this patient?

Question: Which of the following changes would you most likely expect to see on intestinal biopsy in this patient?

Answer: Villous atrophy and crypt hypertrophy


Context: An 18-year-old patient is visiting the pediatrician with her mother for her annual exam before college starts. Her height and weight are appropriate for her age, and she is up to date on all her vaccinations and has no medical complaints. She is doing well in school and has a part-time job stocking shelves at a clothing store. She was offered a higher-paying job as a cashier at the store, but she declined. She is very shy and withdrawn with the physician. Afterwards, her mother asks to speak to the physician alone and expresses concern that her daughter is very socially isolated and feels lonely. She is also worried that her daughter is extremely sensitive to criticism, even from family. The daughter is interested in art and music, but hasn’t participated in any extracurriculars because she says that she is untalented and thinks nobody wants to hang out with her. When her mother has encouraged her to invite friends over, the daughter bursts into tears and says, “Nobody wants to be friends with me, I am too lame and ugly and I just know I’ll end up getting rejected.” Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the daughter’s behavior?

Question: When her mother has encouraged her to invite friends over, the daughter bursts into tears and says, “Nobody wants to be friends with me, I am too lame and ugly and I just know I’ll end up getting rejected.” Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the daughter’s behavior?

Answer: Avoidant personality disorder


Context: A 15-year-old girl comes to the physician because of a 2-week history of genital lesions. She has no history of serious illness. She is sexually active with 2 male partners and uses condoms inconsistently. Vital signs are within normal limits. Pelvic examination shows multiple hyperkeratotic exophytic papules over the vulva. The lesions turn white on application of 3% acetic acid. Which of the following is most likely to have prevented this patient's condition?

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

Answer: Vaccination


Context:
A 48-year-old woman comes to the emergency department because of a 1-day history of fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Two weeks ago, while visiting Guatemala, she had an emergency appendectomy under general inhalational anesthesia. During the surgery, she received a transfusion of 1 unit of packed red blood cells. Her temperature is 38.3°C (100.9°F) and blood pressure is 138/76 mm Hg. Examination shows jaundice and tender hepatomegaly. Serum studies show:
Alkaline phosphatase 102 U/L
Aspartate aminotransferase 760 U/L
Bilirubin
Total 3.8 mg/dL
Direct 3.1 mg/dL
Anti-HAV IgG positive
Anti-HAV IgM negative
Anti-HBs positive
HBsAg negative
Anti-HCV antibodies negative
Abdominal ultrasonography shows an enlarged liver. A biopsy of the liver shows massive centrilobular necrosis. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of this patient's condition?"

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

Answer: Adverse effect of anesthetic


Context: A 10-year-old African American girl with known sickle cell disease becomes acutely anemic in the setting of underlying infection. Her mother denies any previous history of blood clots in her past, but she says that her mother has also had to be treated for pulmonary embolism in the recent past. The patient’s past medical history is significant for a few episodes of acute pain crisis and a need for splenectomy 3 years ago. The vital signs upon arrival include: temperature 36.7°C (98.0°F), blood pressure 106/74 mm Hg, heart rate 111/min and regular, and respiratory rate 17/min. On physical examination, her pulses are bounding and fingernails are pale, but breath sounds remain clear. Oxygen saturation was initially 91% on room air and electrocardiogram (ECG) shows sinus tachycardia. A blood transfusion is initiated. Shortly after the transfusion has begun, the patient experiences fevers, chills, a burning sensation at the intravenous (IV) site, and sudden hypotension. What is the name of this reaction, and what is the best treatment?

Question: What is the name of this reaction, and what is the best treatment?

Answer: Hemolytic transfusion reaction; discontinue transfusion


Context:
A 46-year-old woman comes to the physician because of severe muscle and joint pain for 5 months. The pain varies in location and intensity. She also has joint stiffness in the morning and reports fatigue throughout the day that she attributes to not sleeping well. She reports a tingling sensation in her lower limbs. Her bowel habits are unchanged but she often feels bloated. She has primary hypertension and occasional migraine headaches. She does not smoke or consume alcohol. Her medications include propranolol and sumatriptan. She appears healthy. Examination shows symmetric muscular tenderness at the base of the neck, over the shoulders, and in the lumbosacral area. Strength and deep tendon reflexes are normal. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 14.3 g/dL
Leukocyte count 9300/mm3
Platelet count 230,000/mm3
Mean corpuscular volume 85 μm3
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate 12 mm/h
Serum
Glucose 92 mg/dL
Creatinine 0.6 mg/dL
TSH 3.1 μU/mL
Urinalysis is within normal limits. Which of the following is the most appropriate therapy for this patient?"

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

Answer: Amitriptyline


Context: A 68-year-old man presents with difficulty breathing for the last 3 hours. Upon asking about other symptoms, he mentions that he had a cough for the last 4 months which he attributes to his smoking. He says he had frequent nasal stuffiness and headaches over the last 3 months, for which he takes over-the-counter cold medications and analgesics. Over the last 2 months, he often felt that his face was mildly swollen, especially in the morning hours, but he did not consider it to be anything serious. No significant past medical history. He reports a 20-pack-year smoking history. His temperature is 36.8°C (98.4°F), pulse is 96/min, blood pressure is 108/78 mm Hg, and the respiratory rate is 24/min. On physical examination, auscultation of the chest reveals rhonchi and crepitus over the right lung. The remainder of the exam is unremarkable. A chest radiograph reveals a mass in the middle lobe of the right lung. Which of the following clinical signs would most likely be present in this patient?

Question: Which of the following clinical signs would most likely be present in this patient?

Answer: Papilledema


Context: A 40-year-old obese man with a history of diabetes and chronic kidney disease presents with one day of excruciating pain, swelling, and redness in his greater toe. He denies any inciting trauma or similar prior episodes. Vital signs are stable. On examination, the right first toe is grossly erythematous and edematous, with range of motion limited due to pain. Deposition of which of the following is associated with the most likely underlying joint disorder?

Question: Deposition of which of the following is associated with the most likely underlying joint disorder?

Answer: Monosodium urate


Context: An obese 42-year-old female presents to her primary care physician with a complaint of left knee pain for the past 3 months. She describes the pain as affecting the inside part of the knee as well as the front of her knee, below the kneecap. She denies any inciting injury or trauma to the knee but reports that the pain is worse when she is climbing up stairs or rising from a chair. Physical examination is significant for localized tenderness to palpation over the left anteromedial proximal tibia, 6 cm inferior to the joint line. There is no joint effusion noted. Valgus stress testing is negative for any pain or instability of the knee joint. Radiographs of the left knee are obtained and reveal only mild arthritis, without evidence of any fractures or bony lesions. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

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

Answer: Pes anserine bursitis


Context: A 24-year-old woman comes to the physician’s office with concerns about a recent pregnancy. She and her boyfriend had intercourse for the first time a few weeks ago. Two weeks ago she missed her menstrual period. She took several over the counter pregnancy tests that confirmed her pregnancy. She is tearful about the pregnancy and is very concerned. After extensive conversations with her physician and counseling, she decides she wants to medically abort her 6-week pregnancy. Which of the following drugs should be administered to this patient for this purpose?

Question: Which of the following drugs should be administered to this patient for this purpose?

Answer: Mifepristone


Context: A 25-year-old woman comes to the physician because of periodic painful double vision for 3 days. Her symptoms occur only when looking sideways. She has myopia and has been wearing corrective lenses for 10 years. Ten days ago, she lost her balance and fell off her bike, for which she went to a hospital. A CT scan of the head at that time showed no abnormalities and she was released without further treatment. Her only medication is an oral contraceptive. Her vital signs are within normal limits. The pupils are equal and reactive to light. Her best corrected visual acuity is 20/40 in each eye. She has an adduction deficit in the right eye and nystagmus in the left eye when looking left; she has an adduction deficit in the left eye and nystagmus in the right eye when looking right. Fundoscopy reveals bilateral disc hyperemia. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's findings?

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

Answer: Demyelination of the medial longitudinal fasciculus


Context: A 63-year-old man presents to the clinic for left calf pain when walking a distance of more than 200 m. He has had this pain for more than 8 months now, and he rates it as 7 out of 10. The pain subsides with rest. The patient has had a history of diabetes mellitus for the past 2 years which is well controlled. A percutaneous coronary intervention was performed in 2014. His current medications are insulin and aspirin. Family history is significant for coronary artery disease. He has an 80 pack-year history of smoking and currently smokes. He consumes 4 drinks per day of alcohol. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 144/89 mm Hg, the heart rate is 80/min and regular, the breathing rate is 25/min, and the pulse oximetry is 96%. Normal cardiac and lung sounds were heard on auscultation. Which of the following is the appropriate treatment to improve the patient’s symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is the appropriate treatment to improve the patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Cilostazol


Context: A 72-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 1-month history of frequent headaches, double vision, fatigue, and myalgias. Physical examination shows pallor, tenderness to palpation over the temples, and inward deviation of the left eye. Laboratory studies show an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 65 mm/h. Temporal artery biopsy shows transmural granulomatous inflammation and fragmentation of the internal elastic lamina. Treatment with high-dose intravenous corticosteroids is begun. The patient's condition puts her at greatest risk of developing which of the following complications?

Question: The patient's condition puts her at greatest risk of developing which of the following complications?

Answer: Thoracic aortic aneurysm


Context: A 22-year-old woman comes to the physician because of yellow vaginal discharge, pruritus, and pain with urination for the past 6 days. Three weeks ago, she had an episode of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis that was treated with a 10-day course of amoxicillin. She has been sexually active with multiple male partners over the past year and uses condoms inconsistently; she has been taking an oral contraceptive for the past 2 years. She has no previous history of serious illness or sexually transmitted diseases. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), pulse is 75/min, respirations are 12/min, and blood pressure is 122/82 mm Hg. Pelvic examination shows erythema of the vulva and vagina and foul-smelling, frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge. The pH of the discharge is 5.8. Bimanual examination is unremarkable. Further evaluation of this patient's vaginal discharge is most likely to show which of the following findings?

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

Answer: Flagellated protozoa


Context: A 15-year-old female presents to her pediatrician’s office for severe menstrual cramping. The patient underwent menarche at age 11, and her periods were irregular every 2-3 months for two years. After that, her cycles became roughly regular every 28-35 days, but she has had extremely painful cramps and often has to miss school. The cramps are intermittent and feel like a dull ache in the center of her abdomen, and there is usually accompanying back pain. The patient has been using heating pads with limited relief. She reports some periods being “really heavy” and requires a superabsorbent pad every 6 hours for 2 days each cycle, but this does not limit her activities. She denies any bowel or bladder changes. The patient had normal development throughout childhood, is on the soccer team at school, and is not sexually active. Her father has hypertension and her mother has endometriosis and heavy periods. On exam, the patient is 5 feet 5 inches and weighs 158 pounds (BMI 26.3 kg/m^2). She is well appearing and has no abdominal tenderness. She has Tanner IV breasts and Tanner IV pubic hair, and external genitalia are normal. Which of the following is the best next step for this patient’s menstrual cramps?

Question: Which of the following is the best next step for this patient’s menstrual cramps?

Answer: NSAIDs


Context: A 34-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department following a high-speed motor vehicle collision in which she was the restrained driver. On arrival, she has a cervical collar in place and is unresponsive. Her temperature is 36.7°C (98°F), pulse is 70/min, and blood pressure is 131/76 mm Hg. Her pupils are dilated and not reactive to light. She is unresponsive to noxious stimuli. She is intubated, and mechanical ventilation is begun. Serum concentrations of electrolytes, urea nitrogen, and creatinine are within the reference range. Toxicology screening is negative. A CT scan of the head without contrast shows a massive intracranial bleed and a cervical spine injury at the level of C3. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in diagnosing brain death?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in diagnosing brain death?

Answer: Corneal reflex test


Context: A previously healthy 17-year-old female college student comes to the emergency department because of a 1-day history of fever, chills, and severe headache. Her temperature is 39.4°C (103°F). Physical examination shows nuchal rigidity and photophobia. Blood cultures are obtained and a lumbar puncture is performed. A Gram stain of cerebrospinal fluid shows gram-negative cocci in pairs. Which of the following virulence factors was most likely involved in the initial step of this patient's infection?

Question: Which of the following virulence factors was most likely involved in the initial step of this patient's infection?

Answer: Adhesive pili


Context: A 74-year-old man was admitted to the intensive care ward due to progressive dyspnea, cough with pink sputum, and diaphoresis. He had 2 myocardial infarctions at the age of 66 and 69 years and suffers from chronic heart failure. At the time of presentation, his vital signs are as follows: blood pressure 90/50 mm Hg, heart rate 108/min, respiratory rate 29/min, and temperature 35.5°C (95.9°F). On physical examination, the patient sits upright. He is lethargic and cyanotic. Lung auscultation reveals widespread bilateral fine rales. Cardiac examination is significant for S3, accentuation of the pulmonic component of S2, and a systolic murmur heard best at the apex of the heart. Soon after hospitalization, the patient develops ventricular fibrillation and dies despite adequate resuscitation measures. Which microscopic finding would you expect to see in this patient on autopsy?

Question: Which microscopic finding would you expect to see in this patient on autopsy?

Answer: Brownish inclusions in the pulmonary macrophages on H&E staining


Context:
Please refer to the summary above to answer this question
A cardiologist at another institution is trying to replicate the table in the abstract with a very similar study that he is conducting. After collecting data on changes in plaque volume, LDL-C levels, FEV1/FVC ratio, and ACQ scores from baseline to 12-month follow-up, he is curious if the changes in the aforementioned measurements are statistically significant. Which of the following is the most appropriate statistical method to compare the groups?"
"Impact of pulmharkimab on asthma control and cardiovascular disease progression in patients with coronary artery disease and comorbid asthma
Introduction:
Active asthma has been found to be associated with a more than two-fold increase in the risk of myocardial infarction, even after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors. It has been suggested that the inflammatory mediators and accelerated atherosclerosis characterizing systemic inflammation may increase the risk of both asthma and cardiovascular disease. This study evaluated the efficacy of the novel IL-1 inhibitor pulmharkimab in improving asthma and cardiovascular disease progression.
Methods:
In this double-blind, randomized controlled trial, patients (N=1200) with a history of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction in the past 2 years, and a diagnosis of comorbid adult-onset asthma were recruited from cardiology clinics at a large academic medical center in Philadelphia, PA. Patients who were immunocompromised or had a history of recurrent infections were excluded.
Patients were subsequently randomly assigned a 12-month course of pulmharkimab 75 mg/day, pulmharkimab 150 mg/day, or a placebo, with each group containing 400 participants. All participants were included in analysis and analyzed in the groups to which they were randomized regardless of medication adherence. Variables measured included plaque volume, serum LDL-C levels, FEV1/FVC ratio, and Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores, which quantified the severity of asthma symptoms. Plaque volume was determined by ultrasound.
Analyses were performed from baseline to month 12.
Results:
At baseline, participants in the two groups did not differ by age, gender, race, plaque volume, serum LDL-C levels, FEV1/FVC ratio, and ACQ scores (p > 0.05 for all). A total of 215 participants (18%) were lost to follow-up. At 12-month follow-up, the groups contained the following numbers of participants:
Pulmharkimab 75 mg/d: 388 participants
Pulmharkimab 150 mg/d: 202 participants
Placebo: 395 participants
Table 1: Association between pulmharkimab and both pulmonary and cardiovascular outcomes. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic variables and medical comorbidities. All outcome variables were approximately normally distributed.
Pulmharkimab 75 mg/d, (Mean +/- 2 SE) Pulmharkimab 150 mg/d, (Mean +/- 2 SE) Placebo, (Mean +/- 2 SE) P-value
Plaque volume (mm3), change from baseline 6.6 ± 2.8 1.2 ± 4.7 15.8 ± 2.9 < 0.01
LDL-C levels, change from baseline -9.4 ± 3.6 -11.2 ± 14.3 -8.4 ± 3.9 0.28
FEV1/FVC ratio, change from baseline 0.29 ± 2.21 0.34 ± 5.54 -0.22 ± 3.21 0.27
ACQ scores, change from baseline 0.31 ± 1.22 0.46 ± 3.25 0.12 ± 1.33 0.43
Conclusion:
Pulmharkimab may be effective in reducing plaque volume but does not lead to improved asthma control in patients with a history of myocardial infarction and comorbid asthma.
Source of funding: Southeast Institute for Advanced Lung and Cardiovascular Studies, American Center for Advancement of Cardiovascular Health"

Question: Source of funding: Southeast Institute for Advanced Lung and Cardiovascular Studies, American Center for Advancement of Cardiovascular Health"

Answer: Analysis of variance


Context: A 35-year-old woman comes to the physician because of intermittent episodes of heart palpitations for 3 weeks. The palpitations are accompanied by chest pain that is sharp and localized to the left 3rd intercostal space. The patient does not smoke. She drinks one to two glasses of wine on the weekends. She appears nervous. Her pulse is 110/min and irregularly irregular, and blood pressure is 135/85 mmHg. Examination shows a fine tremor on both hands and digital swelling. There is retraction of the left upper eyelid. A systolic ejection murmur is heard along the right upper sternal border. The extremities are warm, and pulses are 2+ bilaterally. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy?

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

Answer: Propranolol


Context: A 78-year-old right-handed man is brought to the emergency department by his daughter for sudden onset speech changes. The patient lives with his daughter and was chatting with her when suddenly his speech became distorted with random and disconnected words that made no sense. He seems to be physically frustrated that no one understands him. Physical examination demonstrates weakness of the right arm. Damage to which location would best explain this patient’s symptoms?

Question: Damage to which location would best explain this patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Left frontal lobe


Context: A 68-year-old woman presents with an intermittent throbbing headache with an onset approximately 3 weeks ago. The pain is bilateral, “band-like,” and extends to the neck. The patient rates the 4 points out of 10 on a visual scale. The headache is not accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, or phonophobia, and is not aggravated by movements, but gets worse when the patient coughs or laughs. The headache has persisted throughout the day and is usually worse in the morning an hour after she has breakfast and taken her medications. The patient was diagnosed with stage 1 arterial hypertension 2 years ago and stable angina pectoris 3 weeks ago. Currently, she takes aspirin (81 mg once daily), rosuvastatin (10 mg once daily), lisinopril (20 mg once daily), and isosorbide mononitrate (60 mg once daily). She has been menopausal for the last 15 years. In addition to her chief complaint, she also notes that she had a runny nose with a temperature elevation approximately 3 weeks ago, and her headache was linked to that acute illness. The vital signs are as follows: blood pressure 135/80 mm Hg, heart rate 76/min, respiratory rate 14/min, and temperature 36.5℃ (97.7℉). The physical examination reveals S2 accentuation that is best heard in the second intercostal space at the right sternal border. Palpation of the paranasal sinuses is painless. The neurologic exam shows no focal symptoms, no pain on palpation of the trigeminal points, and no meningeal symptoms. What is the most likely mechanism underlying the patient’s headaches?

Question: What is the most likely mechanism underlying the patient’s headaches?

Answer: Dilation of the intracerebral arterioles


Context: A 31-year-old male comes to your office for his annual exam. He states that he received all of his recommended vaccinations prior to beginning college, but has not had any vaccines in the past 13 years. His medical history is significant for intermittent, exercise-induced asthma. He has been sexually active in the past with multiple female partners. In addition to an influenza vaccine, which vaccine should be administered to this patient during this visit?

Question: In addition to an influenza vaccine, which vaccine should be administered to this patient during this visit?

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


Context: A 24-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a 2-week history of a foot ulcer. She says that she punctured her foot with a rusty nail while she was playing tennis and that the puncture wound has since progressed to a non-healing ulcer. Over the last 2 days, she has also been experiencing a fever and drainage from the wound. On presentation, she is found to have a slightly fruity smelling red ulcer with purulent drainage. Probing the ulcer goes all the way down to bone. Which of the following characteristics is true of the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Gram-negative bacilli


Context: A 23-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 1-week history of anorexia, nausea, upper abdominal pain, and dark-colored urine. He recently returned from a trip to Belize. His temperature is 38.3°C (100.9°F). Physical examination shows scleral icterus and tender hepatomegaly. Serum studies show markedly elevated transaminases and anti-hepatitis A virus antibodies. In this patient, infected cells express more MHC class I molecules on their surfaces. This cellular event is primarily induced by a molecule that is also responsible for which of the following changes?

Question: This cellular event is primarily induced by a molecule that is also responsible for which of the following changes?

Answer: Increased breakdown of intracellular RNA


Context: A 42-year-old man comes to the physician because of progressive fatigue and shortness of breath for 1 month. He has been unable to practice with his recreational soccer team and has had to rest frequently when walking to work. His only medication is ibuprofen for joint pain. Physical examination shows tanned skin. There is tenderness to palpation and stiffness of the metacarpophalangeal joints of both hands. Pulmonary examination shows coarse crackles in both lung fields. The liver is palpated 4 cm below the right costal margin. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) testing is most likely to be positive for which of the following?

Question: Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) testing is most likely to be positive for which of the following?

Answer: HLA-A3


Context: A 32-year-old Caucasian woman is referred to a gastroenterologist by her family physician for 8 months of abdominal pain, foul-smelling diarrhea with floating, bulky stools, weight loss, and macrocytic anemia. Her personal history is relevant for allergic rhinitis. Physical examination shows grouped, erythematous papulovesicular lesions on her arms, torso, and abdomen. Which of the following is the most appropriate approach for the management of this patient?

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

Answer: Gluten-free diet


Context: A 62-year-old woman with small-cell lung cancer comes to the physician because of a painful, burning red rash on her face and hands that developed 30 minutes after going outside to do garden work. She wore a long-sleeved shirt and was exposed to direct sunlight for about 10 minutes. The patient is light-skinned and has a history of occasional sunburns when she does not apply sunscreen. Current medications include demeclocycline for malignancy-associated hyponatremia and amoxicillin for sinusitis. Physical examination shows prominent erythema and a papular eruption on her forehead, cheeks, neck, and the dorsum of both hands. 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: Cell injury due to drug metabolites


Context: A 54-year-old man is brought to the emergency department after he was found outside in the middle of a blizzard. On presentation, he is conscious but does not know where he is nor how he got there. His wife is contacted and says that he has been getting increasingly confused over the past 6 weeks. This progressed from misplacing objects to getting lost in places that he knew how to navigate previously. Most worryingly, he has recently started forgetting the names of their children. In addition to these memory changes, she says that he now has rapid jerky movements of his extremities as well as coordination and balance problems. Finally, he has become extremely paranoid about government surveillance and has had hallucinations about secret agents in their house. His previous medical history is significant for a previous car crash in which the patient required internal fixation of a femur fracture and a corneal transplant for corneal degeneration. Otherwise he had no neurologic deficits prior to 6 weeks ago. Physical exam reveals myoclonus and ataxia. Which of the following is true of the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

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

Answer: Can be transmitted on medical equipment even after autoclaving instruments


Context: A 5-year-old boy is brought to his pediatrician due to sore throat and fever. He was in his usual state of health until 3 days ago when he began to complain of a sore throat as well as general malaise. The patient's past medical history reveals recurrent upper respiratory infections but no skin or soft tissue infections. The child had cardiac surgery as an infant but has otherwise been healthy. On presentation, his temperature is 100°F (37.8 °C), blood pressure is 115/72 mmHg, pulse is 65/min, and respirations are 22/min. Physical exam shows white plaques on the tongue and mouth. A scraping of this material reveals a characteristic morphology after being treated with KOH. Serum protein electrophoresis shows a normal distribution of bands from this patient. Which of the following findings would most likely be found in this patient?

Question: Which of the following findings would most likely be found in this patient?

Answer: Hypoparathyroidism


Context: A 35-year-old woman comes to the physician for sleeping problems and the inability to concentrate for 3 months. She says she is worried because she and her husband have been trying to conceive for more than a year with no success. Conception by in vitro fertilization was attempted once 3 months ago but was unsuccessful. Analysis of her husband's semen has shown normal sperm counts and morphology. She has a 6-year-old daughter who was born at term after an uncomplicated pregnancy. She has no history of severe illness and tries to stay healthy by going to the gym an hour per day. Her menses occur at regular 28-day intervals and last 5 to 6 days; her last menstrual period started 2 days ago. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's inability to conceive?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's inability to conceive?

Answer: Diminished ovarian reserve


Context: A 25-year-old female is brought to the emergency department by her family. They found her somnolent next to her computer and scattered pill bottles over two hours ago. The family cannot recall the types of pill bottles that they found and did not bring them to the ED. The patient's past medical history is notable for anxiety, obesity, hypertension, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. She is currently not on any medications other than an exercise program with which she is non-compliant. A physical exam is performed and is within normal limits. The patient begins communicating with the physician and states that she did take acetaminophen but it was only a few pills. Her temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), pulse is 82/min, blood pressure is 125/85 mmHg, respirations are 11/min, and oxygen saturation is 97% on room air. Which of the following is the next best step in management?

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

Answer: N-acetylcysteine


Context: A 27-year-old man and his wife come to the physician for preconception genetic counseling. The patient and his wife are asymptomatic and have no history of serious illness. The patient's older brother died at age 13 from heart failure and his 6-year-old nephew currently has severe muscle weakness. Genetic testing in the patient's family shows that his mother is not a carrier of the mutation that is responsible for the disease in his relatives. A pedigree chart of the patient's family is shown. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the patient not being affected?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely explanation for the patient not being affected?

Answer: Gonadal mosaicism


Context: A 58-year-old Caucasian female presents to her primary care physician with concerns about several recent health changes. The patient has recently gained weight and can't seem to exercise like she used to. She also notes that her thinking seems slow. Physical examination shows thickened, dry skin. Serum analysis confirms the physician's suspicions. Which of the following findings was most helpful in the diagnosis?

Question: Which of the following findings was most helpful in the diagnosis?

Answer: High TSH


Context: A 33-year-old woman at 17-weeks gestation comes to the physician for evaluation of a painless mass in the right breast for the last 3 weeks that has not increased in size. Physical examination shows dense breasts and a 2.5-cm rubbery, mobile mass that is nontender in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast. A biopsy of the mass shows rounded contour with overgrowth of fibrous and glandular tissue. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Fibroadenoma


Context: A 27-year-old male presents for emergency surgery to reattach his left arm, severed during a high-speed car accident, and has lost significant amounts of blood. His wife arrives within minutes to the hospital exclaiming that under no circumstance should he receive any blood transfusions during surgery. After reviewing his medical chart, you see also see an annotation indicating no blood transfusions for religious reasons. Knowing that he needs a blood transfusion to save his life, what do you do?

Question: Knowing that he needs a blood transfusion to save his life, what do you do?

Answer: Respect the patient's written instructions and do not adminster a blood transfusion


Context: The parents of a 14-year-old patient are concerned and have questions about the use of insulin for their son’s recently diagnosed type 1 diabetes. The patient has developed an upper respiratory infection while at school. He is coughing and has a runny nose. His temperature is 37.8° C (100.2° F) and vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following modifications to his insulin regimen would you recommend to this patient and his parents?

Question: Which of the following modifications to his insulin regimen would you recommend to this patient and his parents?

Answer: Increase the frequency of blood glucose checks.


Context: A researcher evaluates healthy breast tissue from 100 women, 50 women that were pregnant at the time of the study and 50 age-matched non-pregnant women. The breast tissue in pregnant women contained an increased number of acinar glands with epithelial proliferation compared to the non-pregnant women. Which process caused this change?

Question: Which process caused this change?

Answer: Hyperplasia


Context: A 21-month-old boy is brought to the physician for a well-child examination. His mother noticed deformities in both of his legs since he started walking independently. He has been healthy apart from an upper respiratory tract infection 6 months ago. He was delivered at 38 weeks' gestation. His 6-year-old sister was treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip. He can kick a ball and say a 2-word phrase. He plays well with other children at his day care. His immunizations are up-to-date. He is at the 40th percentile for height and 50th percentile for weight. Vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows closed anterior and posterior fontanelles. The knees do not stay together when both the feet and ankles are placed together. The gait is unremarkable. The mother is concerned that he has a growth disorder. 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 follow-up


Context: A 30-year-old woman presents to an outpatient clinic for a scheduled gynecologic check-up. The patient appears well and has no specific complaints. She is current with her Pap smears, all of which have been normal. Her menstrual periods are regular and usually last 3–4 days. She denies any recent travel or a history of trauma. The patient has not been sexually active for the past 2 months. She smokes 1 pack of cigarettes per day and drinks alcohol occasionally, but has never used illicit drugs. The pelvic examination reveals a small, firm, non-tender, immobile cystic mass at the edge of the exocervical os with a yellow hue. The patient is otherwise asymptomatic and has no other complaints. The remainder of the physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following is the next best step in management?

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

Answer: No further intervention


Context: A 1900-g (4-lb 3-oz) newborn is delivered at term to a 36-year-old primigravid woman. Pregnancy was complicated by polyhydramnios. Apgar scores are 7 and 7 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. He is at the 2nd percentile for head circumference and 15th percentile for length. Examination shows a prominent posterior part of the head. The ears are low-set and the jaw is small and retracted. The fists are clenched, with overlapping second and third fingers. The calcaneal bones are prominent and the plantar surface of the foot shows a convex deformity. Abdominal examination shows an omphalocele. 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: Ventricular septal defect


Context: A 51-year-old man presents to his primary care provider complaining of fatigue, weight loss, and intermittent fevers for the past 6 months. He has had sexual intercourse with multiple men and women over the past year and does not use barrier protection. His last screen for sexually transmitted diseases was 10 years ago and was normal. His past medical history is notable for well-controlled asthma. He was involved in a motorcycle accident 2 years ago and suffered multiple fractured bones in his upper and lower extremities, all of which have healed. He has a distant history of cocaine abuse. He drinks 5-6 glasses of wine per week. His temperature is 100.8°F (38.2°C), blood pressure is 130/75 mmHg, pulse is 85/min, and respirations are 20/min. On examination, he appears cachectic but is pleasant and appropriately interactive. An HIV differentiation assay and follow-up Western blot are performed and are positive. The patient is started on tenofovir, abacavir, and efavirenz. However, the patient develops a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir, so the decision is made to replace this medication with ritonavir. Which of the following adverse effects is this patient at greatest risk for as a result of this change in medication regimen?

Question: Which of the following adverse effects is this patient at greatest risk for as a result of this change in medication regimen?

Answer: Lipodystrophy


Context:
A 68-year-old man presents to his primary care physician with complaints of increased fatigue and back pain for the past year. His symptoms are progressively getting worse over the past few months despite adequate rest and trial of over the counter analgesics. His back pain is constant and non-radiating in nature. He denies any trauma to his back. His past medical history is insignificant. On examination, there is mild tenderness over the lumbar region in the midline with an absence of paraspinal muscle tenderness. Straight leg raise test is negative. His skin and conjunctiva appear pale. The physician orders basic blood work. His results are provided below.
Complete blood count
RBC 4.9 million cells/µL
Hemoglobin 9.8 g/dL
Hematocrit 41%
Total leukocyte count 6,800 cells/µL
Neutrophils 70%
Lymphocyte 26%
Monocytes 3%
Eosinophil 1%
Basophils 0%
Platelets 230,000 cells/µL
Basic Metabolic Panel
Sodium 136 mEq/L
Potassium 5.1 mEq/L
Chloride 101 mEq/L
Bicarbonate 24 mEq/L
Albumin 3.6 mg/ dL
Urea nitrogen 31 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.7 mg/dL
Uric Acid 6.7 mg/dL
Calcium 12.1 mg/dL
Glucose 105 mg/dL
Urinalysis shows proteinuria without any RBCs or pus cells. The patient’s proteinuria best fits in which of the following category?

Question: The patient’s proteinuria best fits in which of the following category?

Answer: Overflow proteinuria


Context: A 68-year-old postmenopausal woman presents to the clinic for a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. The patient states that she has mild joint pain, which she attributes to osteoarthritis, but she notes no recent fractures. She says that her mother had osteoporosis and she is concerned that she may develop it as well. She takes calcium and vitamin D supplements daily. After review of her DEXA scan, her physician states that she has osteopenia. Which of the following is this patient’s most likely DEXA scan result?

Question: Which of the following is this patient’s most likely DEXA scan result?

Answer: T-score of -1.6


Context: An investigator is studying the growth pattern of a particular bacterial strain that caused a respiratory disease outbreak in children in rural Venezuela. The bacteria are found to be able to grow in a specialized culture that contains sheep blood, cystine, and potassium tellurite; the colonies are black and have a shining surface. The isolated bacteria are most likely which of the following?

Question: The isolated bacteria are most likely which of the following?

Answer: Corynebacterium diphtheriae


Context: A 7-month-old boy is brought to the physician because of a 2-month history of fatigue, weakness, and difficulty feeding. He was delivered at term to a 32-year-old woman. He is not able to sit upright on his own. He is at the 75th percentile for height and 25th percentile for weight. His temperature is 37.7°C (99.8°F), blood pressure is 110/68 mm Hg, pulse is 150/min, and respirations are 50/min. His tongue protrudes beyond the teeth. Neck veins are distended. Crackles are heard at both lung bases. Cardiac examination shows an S3 gallop. The liver is palpated 2 cm below the right costal margin. Neurologic examination shows profound weakness in proximal and distal muscles of the upper and lower extremities. He has 2+ reflexes bilaterally. A chest x-ray shows cardiomegaly. Serum glucose is 105 mg/dL. Which of the following is the enzyme most likely to be defective in this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the enzyme most likely to be defective in this patient?

Answer: Lysosomal acid maltase


Context:
A 4-year-old boy with acute lymphoblastic leukemia is admitted to the hospital to undergo allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Two weeks after the conditioning regimen is started, he develops a temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F). Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8 g/dL
Leukocyte count 1400/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 20%
Eosinophils 0.5%
Lymphocytes 87%
Monocytes 1%
Platelet count 110,000/mm3
Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient?"

Question:
Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8 g/dL
Leukocyte count 1400/mm3
Segmented neutrophils 20%
Eosinophils 0.5%
Lymphocytes 87%
Monocytes 1%
Platelet count 110,000/mm3
Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient?"

Answer: Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor


Context:
A 27-year-old female is brought to the emergency department by police when she attacked her date outside of a pizza restaurant. The patient refused to explain her behavior to the police. She seemed to be responding to internal stimuli when being initially interviewed. The patient has a past medical history of depression, anxiety, and obesity. The patient has a known history of medication non-compliance. Her temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), pulse is 112/min, blood pressure is 100/70 mmHg, respirations are 18/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. On physical exam the patient is poorly kempt and has an odd body odor. Inspection of her oropharynx reveals multiple ulcers. Cardiac exam is unrevealing with the exception of a friction rub. Since the incident, the patient has calmed down and is currently resting. She is no longer responding to internal stimuli and is more cooperative. Lab values are obtained and are below.

Serum:
Na+: 135 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 3.9 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 70 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.7 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.0 mg/dL
Mg2+: 1.5 mEq/L

Hemoglobin: 10 g/dL
Hematocrit: 35%
Reticulocyte count: 4.9%
Platelet count: 275,000/mm^3
Leukocyte count: 5,500/mm^3

Which of the following is the next best step in management for this patient's underlying condition?

Question:
Serum:
Na+: 135 mEq/L
Cl-: 100 mEq/L
K+: 3.9 mEq/L
HCO3-: 24 mEq/L
BUN: 20 mg/dL
Glucose: 70 mg/dL
Creatinine: 1.7 mg/dL
Ca2+: 10.0 mg/dL
Mg2+: 1.5 mEq/L

Hemoglobin: 10 g/dL
Hematocrit: 35%
Reticulocyte count: 4.9%
Platelet count: 275,000/mm^3
Leukocyte count: 5,500/mm^3

Which of the following is the next best step in management for this patient's underlying condition?

Answer: ANA and anti-dsDNA levels


Context: A 68-year-old man presents to the emergency department because of fever, abdominal pain, and rapidly progressive distension of the abdomen. His appendix was removed for an abscess 3 days ago. The complete blood count showed leukocytosis. Anaerobic culture of the peritoneal fluid needle aspirate showed a gram-negative pathogen. Which of the following, in addition to polymicrobial infection, is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following, in addition to polymicrobial infection, is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?

Answer: Bacteroides fragilis


Context: A 31-year-old female patient presents with significant swelling and redness of her fingers that is causing her significant pain. Her right knee has also been stiff and slightly swollen for the past 6 weeks. She is overall fatigued and has difficulty moving around but has not sought medical attention until now. On physical examination, the distal interphalangeal joints are swollen, warm, and painful; her nails are pitted and cracked. There are also rough, erythematous skin patches seen over her elbows which have been present for the last few months. She reports that herer father has a similar condition. They both use hydrating creams and topical glucocorticoids with moderate benefit. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Psoriatic arthritis


Context: A 44-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician because she has been having fever, chest pain, and cough for the last several weeks. She presented to the physician because she discovered blood in her sputum after coughing. She recently returned from a year of traveling abroad, but has otherwise been healthy. Based on clinical suspicion, an acid fast stain is performed showing the causative organism, and she is started on appropriate therapy. Two weeks later, she returns with a skin rash, diarrhea, and confusion, and is given a factor to take in addition to the medications previously prescribed. Which of the following is a characteristic of the factor that was most likely provided?

Question: Which of the following is a characteristic of the factor that was most likely provided?

Answer: Required for dehydrogenase enzymes


Context: A 51-year-old Asian woman presents to her primary care provider with abdominal pain. On examination, she is found to have rebound tenderness in the lower right quadrant of her abdomen. Further workup suggests ovarian cancer, which is confirmed later in the week to be stage 4 with confirmed distant metastases in the lungs and brain. Which of the following routes describes the most likely lymphatic route for this malignancy to have metastasized to the brain?

Question: Which of the following routes describes the most likely lymphatic route for this malignancy to have metastasized to the brain?

Answer: Sentinel node - right lumbar trunk - cisterna chyli - thoracic duct - left subclavian vein - systemic circulation


Context: A 49-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 1-week history of diarrhea and abdominal bloating. His stools are bulky, foul-smelling, and difficult to flush. Over the past 6 months, he has had recurrent dull epigastric pain that is triggered by meals and lasts for a few days. He drinks 6 to 8 beers daily. Abdominal examination shows mild epigastric tenderness with no rebound or guarding. A CT scan of the abdomen is shown. The structure indicated by the arrows is most likely lined by which of the following?

Question: The structure indicated by the arrows is most likely lined by which of the following?

Answer: Granulation tissue


Context: An 80-year-old African American man is brought to the emergency department in a confused state with history of general illness for the past week. He is known to be hypertensive, but noncompliant with medications for the last 20 years. Physical examination reveals dry skin, ecchymoses, and conjunctival pallor. His blood pressure is 180/99 mm Hg, heart rate is 89/min, and respiratory rate is 17/min. The initial laboratory results are remarkable for hemoglobin of 10 g/dL, mean corpuscular volume of 90 μm3, platelet count of 200,000/mm3, blood urea nitrogen of 29 mg/dL, and creatinine of 2.1 mg/dL. Which of the following would be the best initial management for this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following would be the best initial management for this patient's condition?

Answer: Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)


Context:
A 4-month-old boy is brought to the pediatrician by his parents. He presents to the pediatric ward with fever, dyspnea, and cough, which he developed 3 days ago. His mother also reports he had poor weight gain despite a good appetite during the past 2 months as well as frequent stools with an unpleasant smell. He was born at 29 weeks via spontaneous vaginal delivery. He is meeting all of his milestones and is up to date with all vaccines. The child is breastfed exclusively. His blood pressure is 80/50 mm Hg, the heart rate is 109/min, the respiratory rate is 29/min, and the temperature is 39.1°C (102.4°F). The patient’s weight is between the 5th and 10th percentile. His length is between the 50th and 75th percentile. The patient is sluggish and reacts torpidly to examination. His skin is pale and dry with decreased turgor and elasticity. On auscultation, there are diminished vesicular sounds and disseminated moist rales at the bases of both lungs. Heart sounds are normal. The abdomen is distended without palpable masses. The patient’s blood analysis shows the following findings:
Complete blood count
 Erythrocytes  3.3 x 106/mm3
 Hb  12 g/dL
 Total leukocyte count  17,500/mm3
 Neutrophils
 59%
 Lymphocytes
 32%
 Eosinophils
 3%
 Monocytes
 6%
 Basophils
 0
Platelet count
232,000/mm3
Sputum culture grows Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A sweat test shows chloride concentration of 85 mEq/L (elevated). Which of the following is involved in the pathogenesis of this patient’s symptoms?

Question: Which of the following is involved in the pathogenesis of this patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Abnormal CFTR protein


Context: A 15-year-old girl is brought to the physician by her mother because of worsening grades over the past year. Since she started high school one year ago, her academic performance has decreased. She also has had difficulty finding friends at the new school. She is afraid that her classmates will make fun of her and think that she is “stupid.” One month ago, when she had to give a presentation, she could not stop wondering how her classmates were going to react if she said something wrong. During the presentation, her heart started racing and she became flushed. Since this event, she avoids saying anything in class. She spends her breaks in the restroom because she is worried that nobody will talk to her. Physical and neurologic examinations show no abnormalities. On mental status examination, the girl avoids eye contact and appears uncomfortable and anxious. Which of the following is the most appropriate pharmacotherapy for this patient's condition?

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

Answer: Fluoxetine


Context: A 3-year-old boy is brought to the clinic by his parents because he ‘hasn’t been himself lately’ and reportedly gets tired very easily from his swimming classes in comparison to the other kids. He also ‘can’t catch his breath’ at times. The mother also reports that he seems to be slightly shorter than other children his age. His temperature is 36.6°C (97.9°F), blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg, and respiratory rate is 14/min. On auscultation, a localized harsh pansystolic murmur is heard over the left sternal border at the level of the 2nd–3rd intercostal space. The murmur becomes louder when the patient is asked to squat. An echocardiogram is performed. Which of the structures below gives rise to the defective structure that is causing this patient’s symptoms?

Question: Which of the structures below gives rise to the defective structure that is causing this patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Endocardial cushion


Context: A 26-year-old woman developed rapidly progressive septic shock associated with nuchal rigidity, petechiae, and purpura. She tested positive for both Kernig and Brudzinski's signs and shows signs of confusion, dyspnea, and hypotension. The blood culture results confirmed the presence of Neisseria meningitidis, and a complete blood count (CBC) revealed leukocytosis. Which one of the cytokines below takes part in the pathogenesis of septic shock?

Question: Which one of the cytokines below takes part in the pathogenesis of septic shock?

Answer: Tumor necrosis factor-α


Context: A 35-year-old man comes to the physician because of episodes of difficulty swallowing for the past 3 months. He feels solid food getting stuck in his chest behind the sternum when he eats. Drinking does not cause any difficulty swallowing. He has no coughing or nasal regurgitation. He has no hoarseness or weight loss. He has had heartburn for 2 years with no response to high-dose omeprazole. His past medical history is also significant for asthma and eczema. He takes no medications except for omeprazole. His vital signs are within normal limits. Physical examination shows no abnormal findings. Which of the following best explains these findings?

Question: Which of the following best explains these findings?

Answer: Eosinophilic esophagitis


Context: A 33-year-old man presents to the emergency department with altered mental status. He was at work as a construction worker when his coworkers found him down at the work site. The patient recently underwent anesthesia for an appendectomy several months ago. He also has a past medical history of schizophrenia well controlled with haloperidol and is currently taking phenytoin for epilepsy. He is also currently taking propranolol for anxiety and hyperthyroidism. His temperature is 106°F (41.1°C), blood pressure is 109/62 mmHg, pulse is 170/min, respirations are 23/min, and oxygen saturation is 95% on room air. Physical exam is notable for an altered man with a Glasgow Coma Scale of 10. He has minimal muscle tone and is incoherent when answering questions. The patient is covered in sweat and dirt. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Exertional heat stroke


Context:
A 67-year-old man is brought to the hospital by his relatives. He complains of early satiety, abdominal discomfort after food intake, and abdominal bloating. These symptoms have been present since the patient was 52, but they were milder at that time so he paid little attention to them since. Tingling and decreased sensation in both lower extremities began a few months ago. His relatives also note that he has become excessively somnolent and forgetful. The patient’s medical history is significant for acute hepatitis B 20 years ago. He smokes a pack of cigarettes per day and drinks alcohol occasionally. His weight is 61 kg (134.5 lb), height is 181 cm (5 ft 11 in), and BMI is 18.6 kg/m2. His vital signs include: blood pressure 110/80 mm Hg, heart rate 89/min, respiratory rate 13/min, and temperature 36.1°C (96.9°F). The patient’s skin is pale, thin, dry, and hypoelastic. Lymph nodes and the thyroid gland are not enlarged. Lung and heart examinations are within normal limits for his age. The patient’s tongue is bright red with atrophic papillae. The abdomen is distended and tender to palpation in the epigastric area. Neurological examination shows symmetrical bilateral distal hypoesthesia for all sensations and decreased muscle strength in both upper and lower extremities. On a mini-mental status examination, the patient scores 25. The patient’s blood test results are as follows:
Erythrocytes 2.8 x 109/mm3
Hb 8.6 g/dL
Ht 37%
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin  49.9 pg/cell (3.1 fmol/cell)
Mean corpuscular volume 142 µm3 (142 fL)
Reticulocyte count 0.3%
Total leukocyte count 3,070/mm3
Neutrophils 54%
Lymphocyte 32%
Eosinophil 3%
Monocyte 11%
Basophil 0%
Platelet count 195,000/mm3
HbA1C 4.3%
Fasting plasma glucose 4.6 mmol/l (82.9 mg/dL)
Aspartate aminotransferase 22 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase 19 U/L
Amylase 32 U/L
Total bilirubin 32 µmol/L (1.87 mg/dL)
Conjugated bilirubin 8 µmol/L (0.4677 mg/L)
Which of the following options best explains the patient’s neurological and psychiatric symptoms?

Question:
The patient’s blood test results are as follows:
Erythrocytes 2.8 x 109/mm3
Hb 8.6 g/dL
Ht 37%
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin  49.9 pg/cell (3.1 fmol/cell)
Mean corpuscular volume 142 µm3 (142 fL)
Reticulocyte count 0.3%
Total leukocyte count 3,070/mm3
Neutrophils 54%
Lymphocyte 32%
Eosinophil 3%
Monocyte 11%
Basophil 0%
Platelet count 195,000/mm3
HbA1C 4.3%
Fasting plasma glucose 4.6 mmol/l (82.9 mg/dL)
Aspartate aminotransferase 22 U/L
Alanine aminotransferase 19 U/L
Amylase 32 U/L
Total bilirubin 32 µmol/L (1.87 mg/dL)
Conjugated bilirubin 8 µmol/L (0.4677 mg/L)
Which of the following options best explains the patient’s neurological and psychiatric symptoms?

Answer: Impaired methylation of myelin phospholipids


Context: A four-day-old neonate is brought to the pediatrician with vaginal discharge for the last two days. Her mother is concerned about the blood-tinged discharge but states that her daughter has been feeding and voiding well. The neonate was delivered at 39 weeks gestation by an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, and she and her mother were discharged home after two days. The prenatal course was complicated by chlamydia in the mother during the first trimester, for which she and the partner were both treated with a negative test of cure. The neonate’s biological father is no longer involved the patient's care, but her mother’s boyfriend has been caring for the baby whenever the mother rests. At this visit, the neonate’s temperature is 98.5°F (36.9°C), pulse is 138/min, and respirations are 51/min. She appears comfortable, and cardiopulmonary and abdominal exams are unremarkable. There are no bruises or marks on her skin. Examination of the genitals reveals no vulvar irritation or skin changes, but there is scant pink mucoid discharge at the introitus. Which of the following is the best next step in management?

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

Answer: Reassurance


Context:
A 53-year-old male presents to his primary care physician complaining of fatigue and joint and muscle pain. He reports a 6-month history of slowly progressive tiredness associated with dull achy pain in his knees, hips, and shoulders. His past medical history is notable for hypertension, diabetes, and stable angina. He takes lisinopril, metformin, glyburide, and aspirin. He has a history of intravenous drug use and was homeless in his early 30’s. He drinks alcohol socially and has a 30 pack-year smoking history. His temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 130/85 mmHg, pulse is 95/min, and respirations are 18/min. Physical examination reveals a generally well-appearing male without evidence of ascites, peripheral edema, or jaundice. Results from laboratory tests are below:

Hepatitis A IgM: Negative
Hepatitis A IgG: Negative
Hepatitis B surface antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B E antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B core antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B surface IgG: Positive
Hepatitis B E IgG: Negative
Hepatitis B core IgG: Negative
Hepatitis C IgG: Positive
HCV RNA: 100,000,000 IU/ml

This patient should be started on which of the following medications?

Question:
Results from laboratory tests are below:

Hepatitis A IgM: Negative
Hepatitis A IgG: Negative
Hepatitis B surface antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B E antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B core antigen: Negative
Hepatitis B surface IgG: Positive
Hepatitis B E IgG: Negative
Hepatitis B core IgG: Negative
Hepatitis C IgG: Positive
HCV RNA: 100,000,000 IU/ml

This patient should be started on which of the following medications?

Answer: Sofosbuvir and simeprevir


Context: A 40-year-old woman presents to her family physician with a 3-week history of swollen neck. The small, round, and painless swelling, which was detected 3 weeks ago in the middle of her neck, has now increased in size. The swelling is associated with sweaty palms and soles, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, and fatigue; however, the patient does not complain of fever, cervical lymphadenopathy, weight loss, vision problems, or body swelling. The patient’s medical history is negative for similar symptoms or a thyroid disorder. The vital signs are within normal limits. Local examination reveals a 3 x 3 cm round, non-tender, non-fluctuant, and non-pulsatile swelling in the anterior triangle of her neck. The patient carries a total white blood cell count of 10,200/mm3, including 70% neutrophils, 30% lymphocytes, and zero eosinophils.The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is 20 mm/hr (normal, 0–29 mm/hr). What is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Silent thyroiditis


Context: A 27-year-old woman with no past medical history presents to the emergency department with recurrent wrist and neck pain for the last 2 months. She reports that her fingers feel stiff in the morning and the symptoms tend to improve as the day progresses. She denies any recent trauma or other inciting events. Family history is significant for a grandmother who suffered from fibromyalgia. Her temperature is 37°C (98.6°F), blood pressure is 120/70 mm Hg, respiratory rate is 16/min, and heart rate is 70/min. On physical examination, her metacarpophalangeal joints are erythematous and tender. Which of the following would be most helpful for diagnosing this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following would be most helpful for diagnosing this patient’s condition?

Answer: Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody


Context:
A 66-year-old man comes to the physician because of fatigue and swelling of his legs and feet for 6 weeks. During this time he has felt like his eyes have been unusually puffy in the mornings and his urine has been frothy. He has hypertension and rheumatoid factor-positive rheumatoid arthritis. Current medications include amlodipine, methotrexate, and ibuprofen. He does not smoke. He has a history of chronic alcohol abuse. His temperature is 36.7°C (98°F), pulse is 80/min, and blood pressure is 148/86 mm Hg. Physical examination shows pallor, periorbital edema, 2+ pedal edema, and ascites. He has swan-neck deformities and nodules of multiple fingers and swelling and restricted range of motion of bilateral knee joints. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 8.2 mg/dl
Prothrombin time 12 seconds
Serum
Albumin 2.8 g/dl
Total bilirubin 1.0 mg/dl
Alkaline phosphatase 120 U/L
AST 20 U/L
ALT 19 U/L
Urea 18 mg/dl
Creatinine 1.2 mg/dl
Urine
Protein 3+
WBCs 5–10/hpf
RBCs negative
Bacteria negative
Ultrasound of the liver and kidneys shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's findings?"

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

Answer: Increased serum amyloid A production


Context: A 35-year-old woman presents with an unsteady and broad-based gait, dysmetria, and intention tremor in the distal upper extremities. Her past medical history is relevant for depression, personality changes, and declining work performance, for which she has been put on leave from her current job as an elementary school teacher. On physical examination, patient has dysarthria, dystonia, and an ataxic gait. Ophthalmologic examination reveals multi-colored irises with concentric rings around the periphery (findings shown in the photo). Sensation and motor functions are preserved. Which of the following would you expect to be abnormally accumulated in this patient’s tissues?

Question: Which of the following would you expect to be abnormally accumulated in this patient’s tissues?

Answer: Copper


Context: A 6-year-old Russian boy who recently immigrated to the United States presents to your office with fever and dyspnea. On examination of the oropharynx, you note a grayish-white pseudomembrane and uneven elevation of the soft palate. The patient displays marked enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes. Which of the following describes the organism responsible for this patient's disease?

Question: Which of the following describes the organism responsible for this patient's disease?

Answer: Gram-positive bacteria producing exotoxin that acts via ADP ribosylation


Context: A 17-year-old male presents to the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident. The patient was an unrestrained driver in a head-on collision. He has a past medical history of asthma, depression, and anxiety. He is not currently taking any medications. His temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C), blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg, pulse is 115/min, respirations are 22/min, and oxygen saturation is 99% on room air. The patient's cardiopulmonary exam is within normal limits. The patient is breathing on his own and has strong distal pulses. Ultimately, the patient is discharged with follow up instructions after no significant fractures or injuries are found. The patient then presents 4 months later to his primary doctor with weakness. The patient's strength in his upper extremities is 1/5. He has reduced sensation in his upper extremities as well. The patient's lower extremities reveal 5/5 strength with intact sensation. A chest radiograph and basic labs are ordered. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Answer: Syringomyelia


Context: A 62-year-old woman with a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus comes to the physician for a routine health maintenance examination. She has smoked 1 pack of cigarettes daily for the last 15 years. Current medications include glyburide and amlodipine. The physician prescribes a medication that decreases the production of mevalonate. Which of the following changes to the serum is most likely to develop as an adverse effect of the prescribed drug?

Question: Which of the following changes to the serum is most likely to develop as an adverse effect of the prescribed drug?

Answer: Increased creatine kinase concentration


Context:
A 21-year-old woman comes to the physician for evaluation of excess hair growth on her face. Menses occur irregularly at 45 to 65-day intervals. She is 159 cm (5 ft 3 in) tall and weighs 59 kg (130 lb); BMI is 23 kg/m2. Physical examination shows facial acne and growth of coarse dark hair on the face, chest, and lower back. Pelvic examination shows no abnormalities. Serum studies show:
Sodium 141 mEq/L
Potassium 4.2 mEq/L
Glucose 109 mg/dL
Cortisol (1600 h) 4 μg/dL
Prolactin 14 ng/mL
17-hydroxyprogesterone 390 ng/dL (N=20–300 ng/dL)
Testosterone 91 ng/dL (N=8–60 ng/dL)
A urine pregnancy test is negative. This patient's condition is most likely associated with which of the following?"

Question: This patient's condition is most likely associated with which of the following?"

Answer: Hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex


Context: A 64-year-old man with coronary artery disease and hypertension comes to the physician for a follow-up examination. His blood pressure ranged from 160/100 mm Hg to 150/94 mm Hg on his previous 3 visits over the past 4 months. Current medications include aspirin, atorvastatin, hydrochlorothiazide, and metoprolol. Three weeks ago, he was also started on amlodipine. His blood pressure today is 158/98 mm Hg. Physical examination shows no other abnormalities. Renal duplex ultrasonography shows 90% occlusion of the right renal artery. Decreased renal blood flow is most likely to cause which of the following?

Question: Decreased renal blood flow is most likely to cause which of the following?

Answer: Hyperplasia of juxtaglomerular cells


Context: A 65-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her husband after he found her with nausea, headache, and agitation 1 hour ago. When he left their lakeside cabin 6 hours before to go ice fishing and get more firewood, she did not have any symptoms. She has chronic migraines, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Her medications include lisinopril and metformin, but she ran out of her anti-hypertensive medications over the weekend. Her temperature is 37.1°C (98.8°F), pulse is 110/min, respirations are 21/min, and blood pressure is 154/92 mm Hg. Pulse oximetry on room air shows an oxygen saturation of 98%. She is confused and oriented only to person and place. She recalls only one of three objects after 5 minutes. Her gait is unsteady. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most effective intervention for this patient's current condition?

Question: Which of the following is the most effective intervention for this patient's current condition?

Answer: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy


Context: A 62-year-old Caucasian male presents to the emergency room with severe substernal chest pain, diaphoresis, and nausea. Imaging reveals transmural myocardial infarction in the posterior 1/3 of the ventricular septum. Which of this patient's coronary arteries is most likely occluded?

Question: Which of this patient's coronary arteries is most likely occluded?

Answer: Right main


Context: A previously healthy, 24-year-old man comes to the physician because of a 6-week history of loose, nonbloody stools. He also reports abdominal pain, intermittent nausea, and fever. He has not had vomiting, tenesmus, or rectal pain. His vital signs are within normal limits. Abdominal examination reveals tenderness of the right lower abdomen without rebound tenderness. Rectal exam is unremarkable. Laboratory studies show a leukocyte count of 14,800/mm3 and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 51 mm/h. Test of the stool for occult blood and stool studies for infection are negative. A CT scan of the abdomen shows mural thickening and surrounding fat stranding of discrete regions of the terminal ileum and transverse colon. A colonoscopy is performed and biopsy specimens of the affected areas of the colon are taken. Which of the following findings is most specific for this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following findings is most specific for this patient's condition?

Answer: Formation of noncaseating granulomas


Context:
A 65-year-old man presents with pain in his left thigh for a week. He describes the pain as dull and constant, boring in nature, and localized deep below the thigh muscle. He says it is worse at night. Physical examination is significant for tenderness and warmth over the anterior aspect of the left thigh. A plain radiograph of the left femur shows increased cortical thickness with widened intercortical space. Laboratory studies show:
Alkaline phosphatase
925 U/L
Serum calcium
9.2 mg/dL
Serum phosphorus 4.4 mg/dL
Findings on bone biopsy are shown in the image. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis in this patient?

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

Answer: Osteitis deformans


Context: A 15-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department because of severe abdominal pain and vomiting for 8 hours. He has had around 3–4 episodes of greenish colored vomit during this period. He has major depressive disorder with psychosis. His mother has Graves' disease. Current medications include sertraline and haloperidol. He appears uncomfortable. His temperature is 37.3°C (99.1°F), pulse is 87/min, and blood pressure is 118/72 mm Hg. He is diagnosed with acute appendicitis and is taken to the operating room for an emergency laparoscopic appendectomy. The appendix is gangrenous and perforated with purulent fluid in the pelvis. Just after the appendiceal base is ligated, the patient shows muscle rigidity and profuse diaphoresis. His temperature is 39.1°C (102.4°F), pulse is 130/min, and blood pressure is 146/70 mm Hg. The pupils are equal and reactive to light. The end-tidal CO2 is 85 mm Hg. Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for this patient's condition?

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

Answer: Dantrolene


Context: After a T cell progenitor leaves the bone marrow, most of its development takes place in the thymus. It passes through several stages during its maturation. Positive selection is an important process during maturation of T lymphocytes, and it ensures the preservation of self-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted T cells. During which of the following developmental stages does a T cell undergo this process?

Question: During which of the following developmental stages does a T cell undergo this process?

Answer: Double-positive T cell


Context: A 28-year-old male presents with a recent onset of upsetting dreams, anxiety, and disturbing flashbacks. The patient reports that he returned from active duty in Iraq 3 months ago and was adjusting to life back at home until about 7 weeks ago when he began having intense fear of loud noises and seeing sudden flashbacks to bombing attacks he endured during his time in Iraq. He had to take a leave from his army instructor duties as he was not able to handle the familiar settings of practice shooting ranges and sudden loud explosions during battalion training. After refusing to leave his house, he was finally persuaded by his wife to visit your clinic. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Question: What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Posttraumatic stress disorder


Context: A patient with a1-antitrypsin deficiency is warned by his physician that his increasing dyspnea may be worsened by his continued cigarette smoking. Which of the following factors, released by both neutrophils and alveolar macrophages, is responsible for the patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following factors, released by both neutrophils and alveolar macrophages, is responsible for the patient's condition?

Answer: Elastase


Context: A 54-year-old man comes to the physician for a routine health maintenance examination. He was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus 1 year ago. His only medication is metformin. His serum glucose is 186 mg/dL and his hemoglobin A1c is 7.6%. The physician prescribes an additional antidiabetic drug and counsels the patient on its delayed onset of action. At a follow-up appointment 4 weeks later, the patient reports that his home blood glucose readings have improved. He also mentions that he has had a weight gain of 4 kg (8.8 lb). The patient has most likely been treated with which of the following drugs?

Question: The patient has most likely been treated with which of the following drugs?

Answer: Rosiglitazone


Context: A 19-year-old woman is brought into the emergency department after collapsing during a cheerleading practice session. Her vitals taken by the emergency medical services (EMS) include blood pressure 88/55 mm Hg, pulse 55/min. She was given a liter of isotonic fluid while en route to the hospital. At the emergency department, she is alert and oriented and is noted to be anorexic. The patient fervently denies being underweight claiming that she is ‘a fatty’ and goes on to refuse any further intravenous fluid and later, even the hospital meals. Which of the following is the best option for long-term management of this patient’s condition?

Question: Which of the following is the best option for long-term management of this patient’s condition?

Answer: Cognitive-behavioral therapy


Context: A 45-year-old man comes to the physician for a routine health maintenance examination. He was diagnosed with HIV 15 years ago. He was taking triple antiretroviral therapy but stopped a few months ago because he was feeling well. He lives in Wyoming. Vital signs are within normal limits. Cardiopulmonary examination shows no abnormalities. His CD4+ T-lymphocyte count is 47/mm3 (N ≥ 500). The patient currently refuses to restart antiretroviral therapy. Which of the following medication regimens is most appropriate at this time?

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

Answer: Trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole, azithromycin


Context: A 32-year-old male presents to the emergency department because of fever and diarrhea. He was in his normal state of health until 2 weeks ago when he went abroad on a vacation. During his trip he went kayaking, visited spas, interacted with local animals, and ate local foods. Since returning he has had 3-day history of fever, cough, headache, and diarrhea. He drinks socially and has a 15-pack-year history of smoking. On presentation his temperature is 102.3°F (39.1°C), blood pressure is 105/62 mmHg, pulse is 91/min, respirations are 18/min, and O2 saturation is 91% on room air. Chest exam reveals fine crackles on auscultation. Chest radiograph reveals patchy infiltrates in both lungs and labs reveal mild hyponatremia and mild elevation of AST/ALT levels. The organism that is most likely responsible for this patient's symptoms is associated with which of the following characteristics?

Question: The organism that is most likely responsible for this patient's symptoms is associated with which of the following characteristics?

Answer: Is transmitted by air conditioning


Context:
A 14-year-old boy presents to the emergency department with hand pain after falling from his skateboard one day ago. He reports that he lost his balance while attempting a new trick and fell on his outstretched hands. He has been icing his hand and taking several tablets of ibuprofen every few hours, but the pain and swelling have not improved. The patient reports that he has not been able to use the hand to take notes in school. His past medical history is significant for infectious mononucleosis last year and type 1 diabetes mellitus for which he has an insulin pump. On physical exam, there is mild swelling over the dorsal aspect of the hand and wrist. He has tenderness in the region between the extensor pollicus longus and the extensor pollicus brevis of the right hand.

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

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

Answer: Radiograph of the wrist


Context: A 22-year-old woman comes to the physician for the evaluation of irregular menstrual bleeding. Menses have occurred at 45- to 90-day intervals since menarche at the age of 15 years. Her last menstrual period was 5 weeks ago. The patient reports that she was too embarrassed to discuss this issue with anyone until now. Over the past two years, she was unable to become pregnant despite having unprotected sexual intercourse with her husband on a regular basis. There is no personal or family history of serious illness. She is 170 cm (5 ft 7 in) tall and weighs 85 kg (187 lb); BMI is 29.4 kg/m2. Her vital signs are within normal limits. Examination shows oily skin and severe facial acne. There is abnormal pigmented hair on the upper lip and around both nipples. The patient wishes to have children. In addition to recommending lifestyle modifications, which of the following is the most appropriate step in management?

Question: In addition to recommending lifestyle modifications, which of the following is the most appropriate step in management?

Answer: Clomiphene therapy


Context: A 56-year-old man comes to the emergency department because of nausea and shortness of breath that started while he was at work one hour ago. He also reports lightheadedness that started earlier in the day. He has type 2 diabetes mellitus, for which he takes metformin and sitagliptin. He has smoked 1 pack of cigarettes daily for 20 years. He appears pale and diaphoretic. A 12-lead ECG is shown. 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: Acute inferior myocardial infarction


Context: A 27-year-old man with a history of cocaine abuse comes to the physician 2 weeks after undergoing successful arthroscopic repair of a torn medial collateral ligament in his left knee. There were no complications. He was discharged with prescriptions for oxycodone and acetaminophen. He complains of severe pain that prevents him from participating in physical therapy and wakes him from sleep. Physical examination of the left knee shows a healing incision; there is no joint effusion, erythema, or evidence of wound dehiscence, and his gait is normal. When the physician recommends switching to ibuprofen for pain, he becomes visibly angry and demands a refill of oxycodone. Which of the following is the most appropriate response to this patient's request?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate response to this patient's request?

Answer: Request further information about which drugs he has taken recently and in the past


Context: An 89-year-old woman sees her neurologist for a follow-up evaluation. Three months ago, she presented with complaints about facial asymmetry. Her daughter has noticed that her mother’s mouth is droops downwards on the right side of her face and that she cannot close her right eye well. The same side also lacks wrinkles on the forehead. Since then, the patient feels like her facial muscles have gotten weaker. She was given a course of corticosteroids, but she has still not recovered fully. Upon being asked to close her eyes, the patient has difficulty doing so and fails to completely close her eyelids. On examination, there is no loss of pain, temperature, or crude or tactile touch sensations in the whole face. The neurological exam is otherwise unremarkable. This patient also has type 2 diabetes mellitus which is well controlled with metformin. The neurologist recommends a therapy that will help relieve her symptoms. Which of the following is the most likely treatment option being prescribed to this patient?

Question: Which of the following is the most likely treatment option being prescribed to this patient?

Answer: Botox


Context:
A 28-year-old man is brought to the emergency department because of a 3-day history of fever, chills, and generalized weakness. He has no cough. He was treated for a neck abscess 6 months ago. He takes no medications. He has smoked one pack of cigarettes daily for 10 years and drinks two to three beers daily. He has been using intravenous cocaine and heroin for 6 years. He appears ill. His temperature is 38.6°C (101.5°F), pulse is 112/min, respirations are 20/min, and blood pressure is 110/70 mm Hg. Examination shows track marks on both cubital fossae. There are retinal hemorrhages with pale centers. The lungs are clear to auscultation. A grade 3/6 holosystolic murmur is heard best at the lower left sternal border. Laboratory studies show:
Hemoglobin 13.3 g/dL
Leukocyte count 14,300/mm3
Platelet count 278,000/mm3
Serum
Glucose 96 mg/dL
Creatinine 1.0 mg/dL
Total bilirubin 0.4 mg/dL
AST 18 U/L
ALT 22 U/L
Transthoracic echocardiography shows multiple vegetations on the tricuspid valve and moderate tricuspid regurgitation. Two sets of blood cultures are collected. 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: Intravenous vancomycin therapy


Context: A 24-year-old woman comes to the physician because of persistent fatigue for the past 4 months. She has no history of major medical illness. Her temperature is 36°C (96.8°F), pulse is 121/min, and blood pressure is 120/78 mm Hg. Physical examination shows pale conjunctivae. A peripheral blood smear 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: Iron deficiency


Context: A 40-year old man presents to the clinic with vague upper abdominal pain that has been worsening for the last several days. He says that he often gets similar pain but less severe and that it worsens with meals. The pain sometimes radiates to his back. He recently lost 15 kg (33.6 lb) of weight secondary to his lack of appetite since his last visit 2 months ago. He admits to drinking alcohol almost every night since the age of 17. His temperature is 37.0° C (98.6°F), respirations are 15/min, pulse is 67/min, and blood pressure is 122/98 mm Hg. Physical examination reveals moderate epigastric tenderness. An abdominal CT scan reveals calcifications as shown by the white arrows. Which of the following organs is affected in this patient?

Question: Which of the following organs is affected in this patient?

Answer: Pancreas


Context: A 36-year-old man presents to his physician for a regular checkup, and he expresses an intent to quit smoking. He is a financial director with a 15-pack-year history of smoking who tried quitting several times. He tried different nicotine replacement products, none of which helped him. The patient has gastrointestinal reflux disease and takes omeprazole. The medical history is significant for a head trauma after which he had two seizure episodes. He does not have a history of any other disorders. Currently, he is not on any antiepileptic medication. He heard from his friend about an antidepressant that efficiently helps with smoking cessation. He would like to try this medication, and asks his physician for an advice. Which of the following statements regarding the use of the mentioned medication is correct?

Question: Which of the following statements regarding the use of the mentioned medication is correct?

Answer: Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold and it should not be taken by patients with a history of seizure disorder.


Context: A 32-year-old woman, gravida 2, para 0, at 22 weeks' gestation comes to the emergency department for abdominal pain and heavy vaginal bleeding for 2 hours. She has had no prenatal care. Her temperature is 37.2°C (99.0°F), pulse is 102/min, respirations are 16/min, and blood pressure is 138/82 mm Hg. The abdomen is nontender, and regular contractions are felt every 2 minutes. The uterus is consistent in size with a 20-week gestation. There is blood on the vulva, introitus, and medial aspect of the thighs. Ultrasound shows complete detachment of the placenta from the uterus. Fetal heart tones are absent. An emergent cesarean delivery is performed. Following the procedure, the patient becomes tearful and distraught. 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: “I'm sorry for your loss. This must be a difficult situation for you.”


Context: A 78-year-old man comes to the physician because of progressively worsening fatigue and headache for 6 months and occasional abdominal pain. He has not had any changes in his weight. He has a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and chronic shoulder pain. Current daily medications include hydrochlorothiazide, metformin, and ibuprofen. He does not drink alcohol and does not smoke. His diet has mostly consisted of potatoes and lean meats since his wife passed away 1 year ago. His pulse is 92/min and blood pressure is 135/80 mm Hg. Examination shows conjunctival and mucosal pallor. Abdominal and rectal examination shows no abnormalities. Neurological exam shows mild postural tremor. Peripheral blood smear shows red blood cells with increased zones of central pallor and anisocytosis. 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: Iron deficiency


Context: A 35-year-old woman comes to the physician for genetic counseling prior to conception. Her younger brother has mild developmental delay, pale complexion, and has to limit his dietary intake of phenylalanine. She has no similar symptoms and is in good health. Her parents are healthy. Which of the following is the most appropriate assessment of her carrier status for the disease affecting her brother?

Question: Which of the following is the most appropriate assessment of her carrier status for the disease affecting her brother?

Answer: 67%


Context: A 23-year-old man presents with swelling of the left knee. He noticed the swelling a day ago while preparing for the college basketball game. He has had approximately 10 different sexual partners in the past 3 months. Synovial fluid tap shows a WBC count of 90,000 cells/mm3. What is the mechanism of action of the drug which is indicated for the treatment of this patient’s most likely condition?

Question: What is the mechanism of action of the drug which is indicated for the treatment of this patient’s most likely condition?

Answer: Cell wall inhibitor


Context: Which of the following patient presentations seen in a pediatric immunology clinic is most consistent with a diagnosis of Bruton's agammaglobulinemia?

Question: Which of the following patient presentations seen in a pediatric immunology clinic is most consistent with a diagnosis of Bruton's agammaglobulinemia?

Answer: A 9-month-old boy who has had recurrent otitis media and pneumococcal pneumonia in the past three months


Context: A 29-year-old man is brought to the emergency department by a concerned neighbor. The patient appears disheveled, has a flat affect, and appears to be having auditory hallucinations. He is alert and oriented to time, person, and place and has an intact long-term and short-term memory. His neighbor says that he never really knew the patient that well and that he mostly kept to himself. They have been neighbors for the past 3 years at an apartment close to the hospital. What worried the neighbor was a sudden change in the patient's behavior which started last week. He suddenly seemed interested in attending all the local council meetings and social gatherings. He is very talkative at these events and boasts highly of himself and starts suggesting changes that the committee could make with his help. He gets very agitated when they deny accepting his suggestions. Which of the following is a predictor of good prognosis for this patient's condition?

Question: Which of the following is a predictor of good prognosis for this patient's condition?

Answer: Affective symptoms


Context: A 23-year-old man comes to the clinic for yellowing of his eyes. The patient has been relatively healthy and just recently started “intermittent fasting” to try to lose weight. He recalls a similar episode 4 years ago when he was recovering from an emergency appendectomy. The patient denies smoking but endorses an episode of binge drinking 2 days ago. He is sexually active with both men and women. His physical examination is unremarkable besides scleral icterus. What is the most likely explanation for this patient’s symptoms?

Question: What is the most likely explanation for this patient’s symptoms?

Answer: Decreased activity of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase


Context: A 40-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 2-month history of increasingly frequent episodes of vertigo and feeling unsteady while walking. She reports that she has had episodic tinnitus in her right ear for the past 3 years. Neurologic examination shows hearing loss in the right ear. An MRI of the brain is shown. Pathologic examination of this patient's lesion is most likely to show which of the following?

Question: Pathologic examination of this patient's lesion is most likely to show which of the following?

Answer: Hypercellular areas of spindle cells and hypocellular areas of myxoid stroma


Context: A 47-year-old female presents to her primary physician for follow up after an ED visit for nephrolithiasis 1 week prior. CT scan in the ED revealed a 4-mm stone occluding the right ureter. She was able to pass the stone without assistance over the course of 5 hours. Pathology report on the stone states it was composed of calcium oxalate. She says that the pain of passing the stone was excruciating and asks how she can prevent kidney stones in the future. Which of the following interventions is most likely to prevent renal calculi formation in the future for this patient?

Question: Which of the following interventions is most likely to prevent renal calculi formation in the future for this patient?

Answer: Decreasing sodium intake