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Question 1
Incorrect
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The myocardium is responsible for creating the force with which the atrial and ventricular muscles contract. It is made up of myocytes, which are heart muscle cells.Which of the following statements about cardiac muscle anatomy is correct?
Your Answer: The medial portions of cardiac myocytes form gap junctions
Correct Answer: Cardiac myocytes have intercalated discs
Explanation:Typically, granuloma has Langerhan’s cells (large multinucleated cells ) surrounded by epithelioid cell aggregates, T lymphocytes and fibroblasts.Antigen presenting monocytic cells found in the skin are known as Langerhan’s cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Basic Cellular Physiology
- Physiology
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Question 2
Correct
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If the null hypothesis is wrongly rejected when it is actually true, this is an example of:
Your Answer: A test with a type I error
Explanation:A type I error occurs when the null hypothesis is wrongly rejected when it is actually true and we conclude that there is a difference of effect when in reality there is none (a false positive result).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
- Statistics
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Question 3
Incorrect
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A 28-year-old woman with history of blunt thoracic trauma develops hypotension chest pain, and breathlessness. A bedside echocardiogram was performed and revealed a large pericardial effusion. Due to this finding, a pericardiocentesis was to be performed.Which of the following statements is considered true regarding pericardiocentesis?
Your Answer: The needle will reach the correct space after piercing the visceral pleura
Correct Answer: The needle should be aimed at the midpoint of the left clavicle
Explanation:Pericardiocentesis is a procedure done to remove fluid build-up in the sac around the heart known as the pericardium. The pericardium can be tapped from almost any reasonable location on the chest wall. However, for the usual blind pericardiocentesis, the subxiphoid approach is preferred. Ideally, 2-D echocardiography is used to guide needle insertion and the subsequent path of the needle/catheter.In the subxiphoid approach, the needle is inserted 1 cm inferior to the left xiphocostal angle with an angle of 30 degrees from the patient’s chest with a direction towards the left mid-clavicle. The fingers may sense a distinct give when the needle penetrates the parietal pericardium. Successful removal of fluid confirms the needle’s position.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Thorax
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Question 4
Correct
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Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of diazepam:
Your Answer: Bradycardia
Explanation:Adverse effects include:Drowsiness and lightheadednessConfusion and ataxia (especially in the elderly), amnesia, muscle weaknessHeadache, vertigo, tremor, dysarthria, hypotension, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, gynaecomastia, urinary retentionParadoxical effects such as talkativeness, excitement, irritability, aggression, anti-social behaviour, and suicidal ideationWithdrawal symptoms, for example anxiety, depression, anorexia, impaired concentration, insomnia, abdominal cramps, palpitations, tremor, tinnitus and perceptual disturbancesTolerance and dependence (people who use benzodiazepines longer term can develop tolerance and eventual dependence)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anaesthesia
- Pharmacology
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Question 5
Incorrect
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You see a 30-year-old man who has come to the department with a very tender right elbow. On examination, the elbow is very hot and red, and appears to be acutely inflamed.Which SINGLE statement regarding acute inflammation is FALSE?
Your Answer: Vasoactive mediators, such as nitric oxide and histamine increase capillary permeability
Correct Answer: Reduced extravascular osmotic pressure leads to oedema
Explanation:Inflammation can be divided intoacute inflammation, which occurs over seconds, minutes, hours, and days, andchronic inflammation, which occurs over longer periods.Acute inflammationcommences within seconds or minutes following the injury of tissues. There are numerous potential stimuli for an acute inflammatory response including infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic), tissue necrosis, foreign bodies, and Immune reactions (hypersensitivity reactions). The chief cell type of acute inflammation is the neutrophil.There are three main processesthat occur in the acute inflammatory response:Increased blood flowIncreased capillary permeabilityNeutrophil migration1. Increased blood flow:Vasoactive mediators are released, such as nitric oxide, histamine, bradykinins, and prostaglandin E2. These mediators cause vasodilatation and increased blood flow to the area (causing redness and heat).2. Increased capillary permeability:The vasoactive mediators also cause increased capillary permeability by causing endothelial cell contraction that widens the intercellular gaps of venules. This allows an outpouring of protein-rich fluid (exudate) into the extracellular tissues that results in a reduction of intravascular osmotic pressure and an increase in extravascular/interstitial pressure. The increased interstitial osmotic pressure leads to oedema.3. Neutrophil migration:Neutrophils leave the vasculature through the following sequence of events:Margination and rolling: neutrophils flow nearer the vessel wall, rather than in the axial stream, which is referred to as margination. Following margination the neutrophils begin rolling along the surface of the vascular endothelium.Activation and adhesion: then as a result of interaction with endothelial cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) that is mediated by selectins, the neutrophils are activated and adhere to the endothelium.Transmigration: once bound to the endothelium, neutrophils squeeze through gaps between adjacent endothelial cells into the interstitial fluid, in a process calleddiapedesis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 6
Correct
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For which of the following infections is phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) primarily used?
Your Answer: Streptococcal tonsillitis
Explanation:Phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) is less active than benzylpenicillin but both have similar antibacterial spectrum. Because penicillin V is gastric-acid stable, it is suitable for oral administration, but should not be used for serious infections as absorption can be unpredictable and plasma concentrations can be variable. Its uses are:1. mainly for respiratory tract infections in children2. for streptococcal tonsillitis 3. for continuing treatment after one or more injections of benzylpenicillin when clinical response has begun. 4. for prophylaxis against streptococcal infections following rheumatic fever and against pneumococcal infections following splenectomy or in sickle-cell disease. It should not be used for meningococcal or gonococcal infections.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 7
Correct
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Gastrin primarily acts to perform which of the following functions:
Your Answer: Stimulate gastric acid secretion
Explanation:Gastrin primarily acts to stimulate acid secretion from parietal cells (both directly and indirectly by stimulating release of histamine from ECL cells).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Physiology
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Question 8
Incorrect
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Dysuria and urinary frequency are symptoms of a 29-year-old woman. A urine dipstick is used to detect the presence of blood, protein, leucocytes, and nitrites in the urine. You diagnose a urinary tract infection and give antibiotics to the patient.In the United Kingdom, which of the following antibiotics has the highest percentage of E.coli resistance?
Your Answer: Ciprofloxacin
Correct Answer: Trimethoprim
Explanation:In the United Kingdom, antibiotic resistance is becoming a significant factor in the treatment of urinary tract infections and pyelonephritis. E. coli (the main causative organism of both urinary tract infections and acute pyelonephritis) resistance to the following antibiotics in laboratory-processed urine specimens is:30.3 percent trimethoprim (varies by area from 27.1 to 33.4 percent )19.8 percent co-amoxiclav (varies by area from 10.8 to 30.7 percent )Ciprofloxacin (Cipro): 10.6% (varies by area from 7.8 to 13.7 percent )Cefalexin has a concentration of 9.9%. (varies by area from 8.1 to 11.4 percent )
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 9
Correct
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A 32-year-old asthmatic patient on theophylline as part of her asthma management presents to the Emergency Department with an unrelated medical condition.Which of these drugs should be avoided?
Your Answer: Clarithromycin
Explanation:Macrolide antibiotics (e.g. clarithromycin and erythromycin) are cytochrome P450 enzyme inhibitors. They increase blood levels of theophylline leading to hypokalaemia, and potentially increasing the risk of Torsades de pointes when they are prescribed together. Co-prescription with theophylline should be avoided.Factors that enhance theophylline clearance include cigarette smoking, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, and rifampin. Medications that inhibit clearance include ethanol, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, verapamil, propranolol, ticlopidine, tacrine, allopurinol, and cimetidine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Pharmacology
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Question 10
Incorrect
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A young man develops an infection spread via aerosol transmission.Which of these organisms is commonly spread by aerosol transmission?
Your Answer: Rotavirus
Correct Answer: Measles virus
Explanation:Aerosols are airborne particles less than 5 µm in size, containing infective organisms that usually cause infection of the upper or lower respiratory tract.Examples of organisms commonly spread by aerosol transmission are:Measles virusVaricella zoster virusMycobacterium tuberculosisThe following table summarises the various routes of transmission with example organisms:Route of transmissionExample organismsAerosol (airborne particle < 5 µm)Mycobacterium tuberculosisVaricella zoster virusMeasles virusHepatitis A and Rotavirus are spread by the faeco-oral route.Neisseria gonorrhoea is spread by sexual route.Staphylococcus aureus is spread by direct contact.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Principles Of Microbiology
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Question 11
Correct
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A 20-year-old male receives a small cut over his hand while climbing a fence causing it to bleed. Upon applying pressure for a few minutes, the bleeding stops. Which one of the following physiological components of the blood is responsible for the primary haemostasis reaction, such as in this case?
Your Answer: Platelet plug formation
Explanation:Haemostasis is your body’s defence against an injury that causes bleeding. It stops bleeding in three main steps: 1) Primary haemostasis – formation of a weak platelet plug- The primary reaction of the body is to cause local vasoconstriction at the site of injury and decrease blood flow to the affected area- the release of cytokines and inflammatory markers lead to adhesion of platelets and aggregation at the site of injury forming a platelet plug- the injured vessel wall has exposed subendothelial collagen that releases von Willebrand factor Any damage to the vessel wall causes the release of the Von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelet adhesion. Tissue Thromboplastin is also released, which activates the coagulation pathway, a component of secondary haemostasis. The coagulation cascade ultimately results in the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin.2) Secondary haemostasis 3) Fibrinolysis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 12
Correct
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A clinical audit cycle comprises of 5 steps. Each of these processes are listed below:Which is the correct order that these should occur?1. Observation of practice and collection of data2. Identification of the problem3. Implementation of change4. Definition of criteria and setting of standards5. Analysis of data and comparison of performance with the criteria and standards
Your Answer: 2,4,1,5,3
Explanation:An audit assesses if a certain aspect of health care is attaining a recognized standard. This lets care providers and patients know where their service is doing well, and where there could be improvements. The aim is to achieve quality improvement and improve outcomes for patients.Audits are a quality improvement measure and one of the 7 pillars of clinical governance. It allows organizations to continually work toward improving quality of care by showing them where they are falling short, allows them to implement improvements, and reaudit or close the audit cycle to see if beneficial change has taken place.Clinical audits are a cycle with several steps:1. Identification of the problem2. Definition of criteria and setting of standards3. Observation of practice and collection of data4. Analysis of data and comparison of performance with the criteria and standards5. Implementation of change
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 13
Correct
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You are reviewing a patient complaining of loss of vision. Previous images shows a lesion at the optic chiasm. What type of visual field defect are you most likely to see in a lesion at the optic chiasm:
Your Answer: Bitemporal hemianopia
Explanation:A lesion at the optic chiasm will result in a bitemporal hemianopia.A lesion of the optic nerve will result in ipsilateral monocular visual loss.A lesion of the optic tract will result in a contralateral homonymous hemianopia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 14
Correct
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Regarding the phases of gastric secretion, which of the following statements is INCORRECT:
Your Answer: A high pH in the stomach inhibits gastrin secretion.
Explanation:A low pH in the stomach inhibits gastrin secretion, therefore when the stomach is empty or when acid has been secreted for some time after food has entered it, there is inhibition of acid secretion. However, when food first enters the stomach, the pH rises, and this leads to release of the inhibition and causes a maximum secretion of gastrin. Thus gastric acid secretion is self-regulating.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Physiology
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Question 15
Correct
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Platelet alpha granules release which of the following?
Your Answer: Von Willebrand factor (VWF)
Explanation:There are three types of storage granules contained in platelets. These are dense granules which contain the following:-ATP -ADP -serotonin and calcium alpha granules containing clotting factors-von Willebrand factor (VWF)-platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)- other proteins lysosomes containing hydrolytic enzymes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Basic Cellular
- Physiology
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Question 16
Incorrect
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Which of the following study designs is considered the most appropriate to safely determine whether an association exists between a well-established, commonly used, anti-hypertensive medication and causing type II diabetes mellitus?
Your Answer: A case-control study
Correct Answer: A meta-analysis
Explanation:Evidence-based medicine may be defined as the systematic, quantitative, preferentially experimental approach to obtaining and using medical information. Therefore, meta-analysis, a statistical procedure that integrates the results of several independent studies, plays a central role in evidence-based medicine.Meta-analysis is a quantitative, formal, epidemiological study design used to systematically assess previous research studies to derive conclusions about that body of research. Outcomes from a meta-analysis may include a more precise estimate of the effect of treatment or risk factor for disease, or other outcomes, than any individual study contributing to the pooled analysis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 17
Incorrect
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During her pregnancy, a 28-year-old lady was given an antibiotic. The neonate was prematurely born with cyanosis and ashen grey coloured skin as a result of this. Other symptoms were hypotonia, low blood pressure, and poor feeding.From the following antibiotics, which one is most likely to cause this side effect?
Your Answer: Tetracycline
Correct Answer: Chloramphenicol
Explanation:Grey baby syndrome is a rare but causes significant adverse effect caused by the build-up of chloramphenicol in neonates (particularly preterm babies).The following are the main characteristics of ‘grey baby syndrome’:Skin that is ashy grey in colour.Feeding problemsVomitingCyanosisHypotensionHypothermiaHypotoniaCollapse of the cardiovascular systemDistension of the abdomentrouble breathing
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 18
Correct
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Which of the following drug classes may cause bronchoconstriction:
Your Answer: Beta-blockers
Explanation:Beta-blockers, including those considered to be cardioselective, should usually be avoided in patients with a history of asthma, bronchospasm or a history of obstructive airways disease. However, when there is no alternative, a cardioselective beta-blocker can be given to these patients with caution and under specialist supervision. In such cases the risk of inducing bronchospasm should be appreciated and appropriate precautions taken.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pharmacology
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Question 19
Incorrect
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The causative organism for an infection in a patient you are reviewing is a facultative anaerobe.Which of these is a facultative anaerobic organism?
Your Answer: Clostridium perfringens
Correct Answer: Staphylococcus aureus
Explanation:Facultative anaerobic bacteria make energy in the form of ATP by aerobic respiration in an oxygen rich environment and can switch to fermentation in an oxygen poor environment.Examples of facultative anaerobes are:Staphylococcus spp.Listeria spp.Streptococcus spp.Escherichia coliMycobacterium tuberculosis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are obligate aerobe. They require oxygen to growCampylobacter jejuni and Clostridium spp are obligate anaerobes.They live and grow in the absence of oxygen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Principles Of Microbiology
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Question 20
Correct
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Which of the following is NOT a common effect of etomidate:
Your Answer: Significant hypotension
Explanation:Etomidate causes less hypotension than thiopental sodium and propofol during induction. However, it is associated with a high incidence of extraneous muscle movements, which can be minimised by an opioid analgesic or a short-acting benzodiazepine given prior to induction. Pain on injection is common and there is a high rate of thrombophlebitis in the postoperative period. Postoperative nausea and vomiting commonly occur. Etomidate suppresses adrenocortical function, particularly during continuous administration, and it should not be used for maintenance of anaesthesia. It should be used with caution in patients with underlying adrenal insufficiency, for example, those with sepsis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anaesthesia
- Pharmacology
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Question 21
Correct
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One of your patients is in resuscitation and is suffering from kidney failure. The intensive care outreach team arrives to assess them and determines that a dopamine infusion is necessary.Dopamine primarily acts on which of the following receptors at low doses?
Your Answer: Dopamine receptors
Explanation:Dopamine is a catecholamine that occurs naturally and is used to treat low cardiac output, septic shock, and renal failure. It is both adrenaline and noradrenaline’s immediate precursor.Dopamine acts on D1 and D2 dopamine receptors in the renal, mesenteric, and coronary beds at low doses (1-5 g/kg/min). Dopamine causes a significant decrease in renal vascular resistance and an increase in renal blood flow at these doses. Within this dose range, it is also involved in central modulation of behaviour and movement.Dopamine stimulates beta- and alpha-adrenergic receptors directly and indirectly at higher doses. Beta-stimulation predominates at a rate of 5-10 g/kg/min, resulting in a positive inotropic effect that increases cardiac output and coronary blood flow. Alpha-stimulation predominates at infusion rates greater than 15 g/kg/min, resulting in peripheral vasoconstriction and an increase in venous return and systolic blood pressure.Below is a summary of the mechanisms and effects of various inotropic agents:InotropeMechanismEffectsAdrenaline (epinephrine)Beta-1 and -2 agonist at increasing doses;Alpha-agonist at high dosesIncreased cardiac output;Vasoconstriction at higher dosesNoradrenaline (norepinephrine)Mainly alpha-agonist;Beta-1 and -2 agonist at increasing dosesVasoconstriction;Some increased cardiac outputDopamineDopamine agonist at low doses;Beta-1 and -2 agonist at increasing doses;Alpha-agonist at high dosesIncreased cardiac output;Vasoconstriction at higher dosesDobutamineMainly beta-1 agonistIncreased cardiac output
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 22
Incorrect
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A 52-year-old patient requires procedural sedation for DC cardioversion of atrial fibrillation. You plan on using propofol as the sedative agent.Propofol works as a result of action on what type of receptor? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)
Correct Answer: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Explanation:Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is a short-acting phenol derivative that is primarily used for the induction of anaesthesia.Its mechanism of action is unclear but is thought to act by potentiating the inhibitory neurotransmitters GABA and glycine, which enhances spinal inhibition during anaesthesia.The dose for induction of anaesthesia is 1.5-2.5mg/kg. The dose for maintenance of anaesthesia is 4-12 mg/kg/hour. Following intravenous injection, propofol acts within 30 seconds and its duration of action is 5-10 minutes.Propofol produces a 15-25% decrease in blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance without a compensatory increase in heart rate. It is negatively inotropic and decreases cardiac output by approximately 20%.The main side effects of propofol are:Pain on injection (in up to 30%)HypotensionTransient apnoeaHyperventilationCoughing and hiccoughHeadacheThrombosis and phlebitis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anaesthesia
- Pharmacology
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Question 23
Correct
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A 60-year-old man diagnosed with chronic kidney disease has an elevated creatinine level and a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR).Which statement concerning glomerular filtration is true?
Your Answer: Creatinine is freely filtered at the glomerulus
Explanation:Glomerular filtration is a passive process. It depends on the net hydrostatic pressure across the glomerular capillaries, the oncotic pressure, and the intrinsic permeability of the glomerulus.The mean values for glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in young adults are 130 ml/min/1.73m2 in males and 120 ml/min/1.73m2in females.The GFR declines with age after the age of 40 at a rate of approximately 1 ml/min/year.The Cockcroft and Gault formula overestimates creatinine in obese patients. This is because their endogenous creatinine production is less than that predicted by overall body weight.Creatinine is used in the estimation of GFR because it is naturally produced by muscle breakdown, not toxic, not produced by the kidney, freely filtered at the glomerulus, not reabsorbed from the nephron, and does not alter GFR.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal Physiology
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Question 24
Correct
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A 66-year-old patient attends the Emergency Department with chest pain. His ECG and troponin are suggestive of a new myocardial infarction. You have explained the condition and the prognosis. He asks you about how the damaged area of his heart will heal following this.Which answer best describes the process of myocardial healing following myocardial infarction? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: The damaged myocardium will form non-contractile scar tissue
Explanation:Myocardial cells are unable to regenerate, they are unable to divide in response to tissue injury. The remain permanently in G0 and cannot progress to G1. If a segment of muscle dies, for example in myocardial infarction, this tissue will be replaced by scar tissue if the patient recovers. This scar tissue is non-contractile and therefore the remaining myocardium must work harder to maintain cardiac output. As a consequence the remaining undamaged myocardium undergoes compensatory hypertrophy without cell division.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 25
Correct
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A 72-year-old man presents with chest pain that is characteristic of angina. You administer a dose of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), which rapidly resolved his symptoms. Unfortunately, he also develops an unpleasant side effect.Which of the following side effects is he most likely to have developed? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Headache
Explanation:Nitrates are used in the treatment of angina pectoris and the prevention of myocardial ischaemia. Commonly used examples of nitrates are glyceryl trinitrate and isosorbide dinitrate. Unwanted effects, however, are common and can limit therapy, particularly when angina is severe or when patients are unusually sensitive to the effects of nitrates.The following are common or very common side effects of nitratesArrhythmiasAstheniaCerebral ischaemiaDizzinessDrowsinessFlushingHeadacheHypotensionNausea and vomitingDiarrhoea, syncope and cyanosis can occur, but these are rare side effects. Dry eyes, bradycardia and metabolic acidosis have not been reported.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 26
Incorrect
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Which of the following statements is correct regarding flow through the cardiovascular system?
Your Answer: If the vessel diameter is suddenly reduced, flow rate will increase.
Correct Answer: Turbulent blood flow may be caused by increased cardiac output.
Explanation:Frictional forces at the sides of a vessel cause a drag force on the fluid touching them in laminar blood flow, which creates a velocity gradient where the flow is greatest at the centre. Laminar blood flow may become disrupted and flow may become turbulent at high velocities, especially in large arteries or where the velocity increases sharply at points of sudden narrowing in the vessels, or across valves. There is increased tendency for thrombi formation when there is turbulent blood flow. Clinically, turbulence may be heard as a murmur or a bruit. As a result of elevated cardiac output, there may be turbulent blood flow, even when the cardiac valves are anatomically normal, and as a result, a physiological murmur can be heard. One such example is pregnancy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Basic Cellular
- Physiology
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Question 27
Correct
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A 40-year-old woman presents with a red, scaly, itchy rash around her navel that occurred after contact with a nickel belt buckle. A diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis is made.Which type of hypersensitivity reaction is this?
Your Answer: Type IV hypersensitivity reaction
Explanation:A type IV hypersensitivity reaction occurred in this patient. Allergic contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction occurring in response to an external stimulus, acting either as an allergen or an irritant, caused by a type IV or delayed hypersensitivity reaction. They usually take several days to develop.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 28
Correct
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An X-ray of a 24-year-old female hockey player who arrives at the hospital with a left foot injury reveals an avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal tuberosity. Which of the following muscles is most likely responsible for the movement of the fractured fragment?
Your Answer: Fibularis brevis
Explanation:An avulsion fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal happens when the ankle is twisted inwards. When the ankle is twisted inwards a muscle called the fibularis brevis contracts to stop the movement and protect the ligaments of the ankle. The base of the fifth metatarsal is where this muscle is attached. The group of lateral leg muscles that function to plantarflex the foot includes the fibularis brevis and the fibularis longus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 29
Correct
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Which of the following does not increase renal phosphate excretion?
Your Answer: Vitamin D
Explanation:PO43-renal excretion is regulated several mechanisms. These include:-parathyroid hormone – increases excretion by inhibiting reabsorption in the proximal tubule-acidosis – increases excretion-glucocorticoids – increases excretion-calcitonin – increases excretion-activated vitamin D – decreases excretion by increasing reabsorption in the distal tubule
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 30
Incorrect
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As a response to low blood pressure, the baroreceptor reflex will facilitate vasoconstriction by activating which receptor?
Your Answer: Beta1
Correct Answer: Alpha1
Explanation:The rate of baroreceptor firing slows down when blood pressure falls too low. This causes an increase in sympathetic stimulation of the heart, resulting in an increase in cardiac output. It also causes vasoconstriction by activating alpha 1 receptors in smooth muscle, which causes sympathetic stimulation of peripheral vessels. Alpha2 receptors can be found in both the brain and the peripheral nervous system. They control sympathetic outflow in the brain stem. Beta1 receptors, which are found on the cell membrane of cardiac muscle cells, stimulate heart rate and myocardial contractility. The smooth muscle cell membrane contains beta2 receptors, which promote smooth muscle relaxation in the lungs causing bronchodilation, GI tract, and peripheral blood vessels.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Physiology
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Question 31
Correct
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A 65-year-old man presents with a red, hot, swollen great toe. A diagnosis of acute gout is made. His past medical history includes heart failure and type 2 diabetes mellitus.Which of the following is the most appropriate medication to use in the treatment of his gout? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Colchicine
Explanation:In the absence of any contra-indications, high-dose NSAIDs are the first-line treatment for acute gout. Naproxen 750 mg as a stat dose followed by 250 mg TDS is a commonly used and effective regime.Aspirin should not be used in gout as it reduces the urinary clearance of urate and interferes with the action of uricosuric agents. Naproxen, Diclofenac or Indomethacin are more appropriate choices.Allopurinol is used prophylactically, preventing future attacks by reducing serum uric acid levels. It should not be started in the acute phase as it increases the severity and duration of symptoms.Colchicine acts on the neutrophils, binding to tubulin to prevent neutrophil migration into the joint. It is as effective as NSAIDs in relieving acute attacks. It also has a role in prophylactic treatment if Allopurinol is not tolerated.NSAIDs are contra-indicated in heart failure as they can cause fluid retention and congestive cardiac failure. Colchicine is the preferred treatment in patients with heart failure or those who are intolerant of NSAIDs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Musculoskeletal Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 32
Correct
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A patient who was put on low molecular weight heparin for suspected DVT and was scheduled for an ultrasound after the weekend, arrives at the emergency department with significant hematemesis. Which of the following medications can be used as a heparin reversal agent:
Your Answer: Protamine sulfate
Explanation:The management of bleeding in a patient receiving heparin depends upon the location and severity of bleeding, the underlying thromboembolic risk, and the current aPTT (for heparin) or anti-factor Xa activity (for LMW heparin). As an example, a patient with minor skin bleeding in the setting of a mechanical heart valve (high thromboembolic risk) and a therapeutic aPTT may continue heparin therapy, whereas a patient with major intracerebral bleeding in the setting of venous thromboembolism several months prior who is receiving heparin bridging perioperatively may require immediate heparin discontinuation and reversal with protamine sulphate. If haemorrhage occurs it is usually sufficient to withdraw unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin, but if rapid reversal of the effects of the heparin is required, protamine sulphate is a specific antidote (but only partially reverses the effects of low molecular weight heparins). Clinician judgment and early involvement of the appropriate consulting specialists is advised.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pharmacology
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Question 33
Correct
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Due to severe palpitations, a 28-year-old woman is transported to the Emergency Department by ambulance. Her heart rate is 180 beats per minute, and the rhythm strip shows supraventricular tachycardia. You intend to give adenosine.Which of the following is NOT a contraindication for adenosine use?
Your Answer: History of heart transplant
Explanation:The purine nucleoside adenosine is used to diagnose and treat paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. Adenosine works by stimulating A1-adenosine receptors and opening potassium channels that are sensitive to acetylcholine. This causes the atrioventricular (AV) node’s cell membrane to become hyperpolarized, slowing conduction by inhibiting calcium channels.Patients who have had a heart transplant are extremely sensitive to the effects of adenosine and should start with a lower dose of 3 mg, then 6 mg, and finally 12 mg. Dipyridamole potentiates the effects of adenosine, so it should be used with caution in patients who are taking it.The use of adenosine is contraindicated in the following situations:AsthmaCOPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)Decompensated heart failure Long QT syndromeAV block in the second or third degreeSinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses become (unless pacemaker fitted)Hypotension that is severeIt has a half-life of less than 10 seconds and acts quickly within that time frame. The actions last between 10 and 20 seconds. Because of the short half-life of the drug, any side effects are usually only temporary. These are some of them:a feeling of impending doomFlushing of the faceDyspnoeaUncomfortable chestTastes metallic
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 34
Correct
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A 22-year-old woman comes in with an asthmatic flare. Salbutamol is her only regular medication.What is the dosage per inhalation of a standard metered dose salbutamol inhaler?
Your Answer: 100 micrograms
Explanation:The dose of a conventional metered dose inhaler is 100 micrograms per metered inhalation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Pharmacology
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Question 35
Correct
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Regarding airway resistance, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: Airway resistance is predominantly determined by the radius of the airway as described by Poiseuille's law.
Explanation:Flow through airways is described by Darcy’s law which states that flow is directly proportional to the mouth-alveolar pressure gradient and inversely proportional to airway resistance. Airway resistance is primarily determined by the airway radius according to Poiseuille’s law, and whether the flow is laminar or turbulent. Parasympathetic stimulation causes bronchoconstriction and sympathetic stimulation causes bronchodilation, but mediated by beta2-adrenoceptors. Muscarinic antagonists e.g. ipratropium bromide cause bronchodilation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 36
Incorrect
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Following the administration of a medication for a heart condition, a 69-year-old man develops hypothyroidism.Which of the following drugs is most likely to be the cause?
Your Answer: Propranolol
Correct Answer: Amiodarone
Explanation:Amiodarone has a chemical structure that is similar to that of thyroxine and can bind to the nuclear thyroid receptor. It can cause both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, though hypothyroidism is far more common, with 5-10% of patients suffering from it.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 37
Correct
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A 32-year-old man is dehydrated as he presents with severe vomiting and diarrhoea. He urgently requires resuscitation with intravenous fluid administration. He is also administered metoclopramide.Which of the following is the true mechanism of action of metoclopramide?
Your Answer: Dopamine receptor antagonism
Explanation:Metoclopramide is used to treat nausea and vomiting. It works by blocking the central and peripheral D2 (dopamine 2) receptors in the medullary chemoreceptor trigger zone in the vomiting centre (area postrema). It decreases the sensitivity of the visceral sensory nerves that transmit from the GI system to the vomiting centre. Blockade of inhibitory dopamine receptors in the GI tract may allow stimulatory actions of ACh at muscarinic synapses to predominate.At high doses, metoclopramide also blocks type-2 serotonin receptors though the effect is much weaker.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- CNS Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 38
Correct
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A patient has suffered a nerve injury that has caused weakness of the pectoralis minor muscle.Pectoralis minor receives its innervation from which of the following nerves? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Medial pectoral nerve
Explanation:Pectoralis minor is a thin, triangular muscle that is situated in the upper chest. It is thinner and smaller than pectoralis major. It is innervated by the medial pectoral nerve.The origin of pectoralis minor is the 3rdto the 5thribs, near the costal cartilages. It inserts into the medial border and superior surface of the coracoid process of the scapula.The main action of pectoralis minor is to draw the scapula inferiorly and anteriorly against the thoracic wall. This serves to stabilise the scapula.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 39
Correct
-
Regarding pressures and airflow during the normal breathing cycle, which of the following statements is INCORRECT:
Your Answer: Negative intrapleural pressure causes dynamic compression of the airways.
Explanation:Dynamic compression occurs during forced expiration, when as the expiratory muscles contract, all the structures within the lungs, including the airways, are compressed by the positive intrapleural pressure. Consequently the smaller airways collapse before the alveoli empty completely and some air remains within the lungs (the residual volume).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 40
Correct
-
A 57-year old man presented himself to the emergency room with persistent cough. During history taking, a record of his previous sputum sample was seen and the report stated that it tested positive for AFB (acid-fast bacilli). What is the most likely pathogen?
Your Answer: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Explanation:M. tuberculosis is the causative agent of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). The most commonly used diagnostic test for the diagnosis of pulmonary TB is the direct sputum smear microscopy (DSSM) wherein the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) is tested. The most common method is the hot method or also known as Ziehl-Neelsen method. This is a staining method special for Mycobacteria species because they are known to be acid-fast which means that they are not easily decolorized by acid alcohol. Once the DSSM tests positive for acid-fast bacilli, this indicates possible infection with tuberculosis. The gold standard for diagnosis is still culture but Mycobacteria species are slow-growers that is why DSSM is considered the best diagnostic method. A positive AFB smear and correlation with symptoms is usually used by physicians to create a final diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathogens
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Question 41
Incorrect
-
Polyuria and polydipsia develop in a patient with a history of affective disorders illness who has been on long-term lithium. She has a fluid deprivation test because she is suspected of having nephrogenic diabetic insipidus.Which of the following urine osmolality findings would be the most reliable in confirming the diagnosis?
Your Answer: After fluid deprivation >300 mosmol/kg, after IM desmopressin <300 mosmol/kg
Correct Answer: After fluid deprivation <300 mosmol/kg, after IM desmopressin <300 mosmol/kg
Explanation:The inability to produce concentrated urine is a symptom of diabetes insipidus. Excessive thirst, polyuria, and polydipsia are all symptoms of this condition. There are two forms of diabetes insipidus: Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus and cranial (central) diabetes insipidus.A lack of ADH causes cranial diabetic insipidus. Patients with cranial diabetes insipidus can have a urine output of up to 10-15 litres per 24 hours, however most patients can maintain normonatraemia with proper fluid consumption. Thirty percent of cases are idiopathic, while another thirty percent are caused by head injuries. Neurosurgery, brain tumours, meningitis, granulomatous disease (e.g. sarcoidosis), and medicines like naloxone and phenytoin are among the other reasons. There is also a very rare hereditary type that is linked to diabetes, optic atrophy, nerve deafness, and bladder atonia.Renal resistance to the action of ADH causes nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Urine output is significantly increased, as it is in cranial diabetes insipidus. Secondary polydipsia can keep serum sodium levels stable or raise them. Chronic renal dysfunction, metabolic diseases (e.g., hypercalcaemia and hypokalaemia), and medications, such as long-term lithium use and demeclocycline, are all causes of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.The best test to establish if a patient has diabetes insipidus vs another cause of polydipsia is the water deprivation test, commonly known as the fluid deprivation test. It also aids in the distinction between cranial and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Weight, urine volume, urine osmolality, and serum osmolality are all measured after patients are denied water for up to 8 hours. At the end of the 8-hour period, 2 micrograms of IM desmopressin is given, and measures are taken again at 16 hours.The following are the way results are interpreted:Urine osmolality after fluid deprivation : Urine osmolality after IM desmopressinCranial diabetes insipidus800 mosmol/kgNephrogenic diabetes insipidus<300 mosmol/kg : 800 mosmol/kg : >800 mosmol/kg
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal Physiology
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Question 42
Correct
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Regarding loop diuretics, which of the following statements is INCORRECT:
Your Answer: The risk of hypokalaemia is greater with loop diuretics than with an equipotent dose of a thiazide diuretic.
Explanation:Hypokalaemia can occur with both thiazide and loop diuretics. The risk of hypokalaemia depends on the duration of action as well as the potency and is thus greater with thiazides than with an equipotent dose of a loop diuretic. Hypokalaemia is dangerous in severe cardiovascular disease and in patients also being treated with cardiac glycosides. Often the use of potassium-sparing diuretics avoids the need to take potassium supplements. In hepatic failure, hypokalaemia caused by diuretics can precipitate encephalopathy, particularly in alcoholic cirrhosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pharmacology
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Question 43
Incorrect
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Regarding meningococcal meningitis, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: Infection is most common in the summer months.
Correct Answer: Infection occurs most commonly below the age of 5 years.
Explanation:About half of meningococcal disease occurs in children aged less than five years, and babies are at the highest risk because their immune systems have not yet fully developed. There is a second, smaller increase in risk for older adolescents, mainly for social and behavioural reasons. Infection is most common in winter months. Antibiotics should be given as soon as the diagnosis is suspected (ideally cultures should be performed first but this should not delay treatment), and ceftriaxone/cefuroxime is the first line antibiotic. Only healthcare workers who have been directly exposed to large particle droplets/secretions from the respiratory tract of the index case should receive prophylaxis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathogens
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Question 44
Correct
-
Achlorhydria is diagnosed in a 37-year-old individual who has had recurring episodes of gastroenteritis. This is an autoimmune illness of the gastric parietal cells that causes insufficient stomach acid production.Damage to stomach parietal cells will alter the secretion of which other substance?
Your Answer: Intrinsic factor
Explanation:Achlorhydria is an autoimmune illness of the gastric parietal cells that causes insufficient stomach acid production. The parietal cells that have been injured are unable to create the necessary amount of stomach acid. As a result, the pH of the stomach rises, food digestion suffers, and the risk of gastroenteritis rises.The secretion of hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor is controlled by the gastric parietal cells, which are epithelial cells in the stomach. These cells can be found in the gastric glands, the fundus lining, and the stomach body.In response to the following three stimuli, the stomach parietal cells release hydrochloric acid:H2 Histamine receptors are stimulated by histamine (most significant contribution)Acetylcholine stimulates M3 Receptors via parasympathetic action.CCK2 receptors are stimulated by Gastrin.Intrinsic factor, which is essential for vitamin B12 absorption, is also produced by stomach parietal cells.Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that is both selective and irreversible. It inhibits the H+/K+-ATPase system present on the secretory membrane of gastric parietal cells, which lowers stomach acid secretion.Ranitidine inhibits histamine H2-receptors in a competitive manner. The reversible inhibition of H2-receptors in gastric parietal cells reduces both the volume and concentration of gastric acid.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
- Physiology
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Question 45
Incorrect
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A 76-year-old man presents with complaints of double vision. Upon physical examination, it was observed that he exhibits left-sided hemiplegia and left-sided loss of joint position sense, vibratory sense and discriminatory touch. In addition, he has the inability to abduct his right eye and is holding his head towards the right side. A CT scan was ordered and showed that he has suffered a right-sided stroke. Branches of which of the following arteries are most likely implicated in the case?
Your Answer: Posterior cerebral artery
Correct Answer: Basilar artery
Explanation:Inferior medial pontine syndrome, also known as Foville syndrome, is one of the brainstem stroke syndromes which occurs when there is infarction of the medial inferior aspect of the pons due to occlusion of the paramedian branches of the basilar artery.It is characterized by ipsilateral sixth nerve palsy, facial palsy, contralateral hemiparesis, contralateral loss of proprioception and vibration, ipsilateral ataxia, ipsilateral facial weakness, and lateral gaze paralysis and diplopia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 46
Correct
-
Which of the following organelles form lysosomes?
Your Answer: The Golgi apparatus
Explanation:Lysosomes are formed by the Golgi apparatus or the endoplasmic reticulum. Lysosome releases its enzymes and digests the cell when the cell dies.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Basic Cellular Physiology
- Physiology
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Question 47
Correct
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A 26-year-old man is involved in a motorcycle accident that results in an open fracture of his tibia and fibula. The nerve that innervates peroneus tertius is damaged as a consequence of his injuries.Peroneus tertius receives its innervation from which of the following nerves? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Deep peroneal nerve
Explanation:Peroneus brevis is innervated by the superficial peroneal nerve.Peroneus longus is innervated by the superficial peroneal nerve.Peroneus tertius is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Lower Limb
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Question 48
Correct
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A patient suffers a stab wound to the neck. The entry point of the blade is situated within the posterior triangle of the neck.Which of the following muscles is LEAST likely to be involved? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Sternohyoid
Explanation:The anterior triangle is the triangular area of the neck found anteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is formed by the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid laterally, the median line of the neck medially and by the inferior border of the mandible superiorly. The apex of the anterior triangle extends towards the manubrium sterni. The anterior triangle contains:Muscles: thyrohyoid, sternothyroid, sternohyoid musclesOrgans: thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, larynx, trachea, esophagus, submandibular gland, caudal part of the parotid glandArteries: superior and inferior thyroid, common carotid, external carotid, internal carotid artery (and sinus), facial, submental, lingual arteriesVeins: anterior jugular veins, internal jugular, common facial, lingual, superior thyroid, middle thyroid veins, facial vein, submental vein, lingual veinsNerves: vagus nerve (CN X), hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), part of sympathetic trunk, mylohyoid nerveThe posterior triangle is a triangular area found posteriorly to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It has three borders; anterior, posterior and inferior borders. The anterior border is the posterior margin of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The posterior border is the anterior margin of the trapezius muscle, while the inferior border is the middle one-third of the clavicle. The investing layer of deep cervical fascia and integument forms the roof of the space, while the floor is covered with the prevertebral fascia along with levator scapulae, splenius capitis and the scalene muscles. The inferior belly of omohyoid subdivides the posterior triangle into a small supraclavicular, and a large occipital, triangle.Contents:Vessels: the third part of the subclavian artery, suprascapular and transverse cervical branches of the thyrocervical trunk, external jugular vein, lymph nodesNerves: accessory nerve (CN XI), the trunks of the brachial plexus, fibers of the cervical plexus
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head And Neck
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Question 49
Correct
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Question 50
Incorrect
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Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) also referred to as anti-nuclear factors (ANFs) are autoantibodies that bind to contents of the cell nucleus.Which ONE of these statements about ANAs is true?
Your Answer: ELISA is the most reliable method for testing
Correct Answer: They can be of any immunoglobulin class
Explanation:Anti-nuclear antibodies(ANAs) also referred to as anti-nuclear factors (ANFs) are autoantibodies that bind to contents of the cell nucleus. They can be of any immunoglobulin class.CREST syndrome is usually associated with anti-centromere antibodies.ELISA testing is cheaper but not the most accurate means of testing for ANAs. Indirect immunofluorescence testing is the most reliable.Nucleolar staining is suggestive of scleroderma, while homogenous staining is suggestive of lupus.Anti-dsDNA antibodies are found in 80 – 90% of patients with SLE
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 51
Incorrect
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A patient complains of headache and visual loss. CT scan demonstrates a lesion of the temporal lobe. What type of visual field defect would you most expect to see in this patient:
Your Answer: Contralateral homonymous inferior quadrantanopia
Correct Answer: Contralateral homonymous superior quadrantanopia
Explanation:Axons from the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) carry visual information, via the upper and lower optic radiations, to the visual cortex in the occipital lobe:The upper optic radiation carries fibres from the superior retinal quadrants (corresponding to the inferior visual field quadrants) and travels through the parietal lobe to reach the visual cortex. The lower optic radiation carries fibres from the inferior retinal quadrants (corresponding to the superior visual field quadrants) and travels through the temporal lobe to reach the visual cortex of the occipital lobe.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 52
Correct
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A 30 year old man stabbed in the upper arm presents to the Emergency Department and you perform a vascular examination. The brachial pulse can be best palpated at ?
Your Answer: In the antecubital fossa, medial to the tendon of the biceps brachii
Explanation:The brachial artery can be palpated in the antecubital fossa, medial to the tendon of the biceps brachii muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 53
Correct
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What is the mechanism of action of penicillin antibiotics:
Your Answer: Inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis
Explanation:Penicillins and the other ß-lactam antibiotics are bactericidal. They produce their antimicrobial action by preventing cross-linkage between the linear peptidoglycan polymer chains that make up the bacterial cell wall. They, therefore, inhibit cell wall synthesis.The integrity of the ß-lactam ring is essential for antimicrobial activity. Many bacteria (including most Staphylococci) are resistant to benzylpenicillin and phenoxymethylpenicillin because they produce enzymes (penicillinases, ß-lactamases) that open the ß-lactam ring.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 54
Incorrect
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A 71-year-old man treated with antibiotics for a chest infection returns with a profuse, offensive smelling diarrhoea. A diagnosis of Clostridium difficile diarrhoea is made after investigations.Which antibiotic is associated with the greatest risk of causing Clostridium Difficile diarrhoea?
Your Answer: Tetracycline
Correct Answer: Ciprofloxacin
Explanation:Clostridium difficile, a Gram-positive, anaerobic, spore forming bacteria is present in the gut of approximately 3% of healthy adults (2012 UK HPA estimates). Following use of broad spectrum antibiotics, which alter normal gut flora, Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) occurs. About 80% of Clostridium Difficile infections are seen in people over the age of 65 and its main clinical features are:Abdominal cramps, severe bloody and/or watery diarrhoea, offensive smelling diarrhoea, and fever. CDI is the most severe consequence of antibiotic treatment and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Risk for CDI has been found to be greatest with clindamycin followed by fluoroquinolones Tetracyclines are not associated with risk for CDI.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Specific Pathogen Groups
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Question 55
Correct
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Monoamine oxidase is primarily involved in the degradation of which of the following:
Your Answer: Noradrenaline
Explanation:Catecholamines are broken down extracellularly and in the liver by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and intracellularly by monoamine oxidase (MAO).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Physiology
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Question 56
Correct
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Which cervical interspace is most likely injured if a patient presents with difficulty of shoulder abduction and elbow flexion, pain in the right shoulder and lateral arm, and decreased sensation over the deltoid and lateral arm?
Your Answer: C4-C5
Explanation:In the setting of cervical radiculopathy, because the nerve root of a spinal nerve is compressed or otherwise impaired, the pain and symptomatology can spread far from the neck and radiates to arm, neck, chest, upper back and/or shoulders. Often muscle weakness and impaired deep tendon reflexes are noted along the course of the spinal nerve.Cervical radiculopathy is almost always unilateral, although, in rare cases, both nerves at a given level may be impacted. Those rare presentations can confound physical diagnosis and require acceleration to advanced imaging especially in cases of trauma. If there is nerve impingement, the affected side will be reduced relative to the unaffected side. Reduction in strength of muscles innervated by the affected nerve is also significant physical finding.For a C4-C5 injury, the following symptoms may present:Weakness in the deltoid muscle (front and side of the shoulder) and upper armShoulder painNumbness along the outside of the upper arm
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head And Neck
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Question 57
Correct
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A 28-year-old female arrives after taking an unknown chemical in excess. She is tired and her speech is slurred. The following are her observations and results: HR 118, BP 92/58, SaO2 96%HR 118, 11/15 The following are the results of his arterial blood gas (ABG):pH: 7.24 pO 2 : 9.4 kPa PCO2 : 3.3 kPa HCO 3 -: 22 mmol/l Na + : 143 mmol/l Cl – : 99 mmol/l Lactate: 5 IU/lWhich of the following statements about this patient is TRUE?
Your Answer: Her anion gap is elevated
Explanation:The interpretation of arterial blood gas (ABG) aids in the measurement of a patient’s pulmonary gas exchange and acid-base balance. The normal values on an ABG vary a little depending on the analyser, but they are roughly as follows:Variable RangepH 7.35 – 7.45PaO2 10 – 14 kPaPaCO2 4.5 – 6 kPaHCO3- 22 – 26 mmol/lBase excess -2 – 2 mmol/lThe patient’s history indicates that she has taken an overdose in this case. Because her GCS is 11/15 and she can communicate with slurred speech, she is clearly managing her own airway, there is no current justification for intubation.The following are the relevant ABG findings:Hypoxia (mild)pH has been lowered (acidaemia)PCO2 levels are low.bicarbonate in its natural stateLactate levels have increasedThe anion gap represents the concentration of all the unmeasured anions in the plasma. It is the difference between the primary measured cations and the primary measured anions in the serum. It can be calculated using the following formula:Anion gap = [Na+] – [Cl-] – [HCO3-]The reference range varies depending on the technique of measurement, but it is usually between 8 and 16 mmol/L.The following formula can be used to compute her anion gap:Anion gap = [143] – [99] – [22]Anion gap = 22As a result, it is clear that she has a metabolic acidosis with an increased anion gap.The following are some of the causes of type A and type B lactic acidosis:Type A lactic acidosisType B lactic acidosisShock (including septic shock)Left ventricular failureSevere anaemiaAsphyxiaCardiac arrestCO poisoningRespiratory failureSevere asthma and COPDRegional hypoperfusionRenal failureLiver failureSepsis (non-hypoxic sepsis)Thiamine deficiencyAlcoholic ketoacidosisDiabetic ketoacidosisCyanide poisoningMethanol poisoningBiguanide poisoning
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal Physiology
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Question 58
Correct
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A patient with diplopia is found to have eye deviation downwards and outwards. The likely nerves that are affected are:
Your Answer: Oculomotor nerve
Explanation:The results of an oculomotor (CN III) nerve palsy are a depressed and abducted (down and out) eye, ptosis, diplopia, and a fixed and dilated pupil.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Cranial Nerve Lesions
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Question 59
Correct
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Which of the following muscles acts as an extensor of the shoulder joint?
Your Answer: Teres major
Explanation:The glenohumeral joint possesses the capability of allowing an extreme range of motion in multiple planes.Flexion – Defined as bringing the upper limb anterior in the sagittal plane. The usual range of motion is 180 degrees. The main flexors of the shoulder are the anterior deltoid, coracobrachialis, and pectoralis major. Biceps brachii also weakly assists in this action.Extension—Defined as bringing the upper limb posterior in a sagittal plane. The normal range of motion is 45 to 60 degrees. The main extensors of the shoulder are the posterior deltoid, latissimus dorsi, and teres major.Internal rotation—Defined as rotation toward the midline along a vertical axis. The normal range of motion is 70 to 90 degrees. The internal rotation muscles are the subscapularis, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, teres major, and the anterior aspect of the deltoid.External rotation – Defined as rotation away from the midline along a vertical axis. The normal range of motion is 90 degrees. Primarily infraspinatus and teres minor are responsible for the motion.Adduction – Defined as bringing the upper limb towards the midline in the coronal plane. Pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, and teres major are the muscles primarily responsible for shoulder adduction.Abduction – Defined as bringing the upper limb away from the midline in the coronal plane. The normal range of motion is 150 degrees. Due to the ability to differentiate several pathologies by the range of motion of the glenohumeral joint in this plane of motion, it is essential to understand how different muscles contribute to this action.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 60
Correct
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A 58-year-old patient presents with sputum production and worsening exertional breathlessness. A spirometry is done and his results leads to a diagnosis of obstructive lung disease with mild airflow obstruction.What FEV1 value would correspond with mild airflow obstruction according to the NICE guidelines?
Your Answer: FEV 1 >80%
Explanation:Airflow obstruction according to the latest NICE guidelines, is defined as: Mild airflow obstruction = an FEV 1 of >80% in the presence of symptoms Moderate airflow obstruction = FEV 1 of 50-79% Severe airflow obstruction = FEV 1 of 30-49% Very severe airflow obstruction = FEV1<30%.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory Physiology
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Question 61
Incorrect
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Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding the Na+/K+ATPase pump?
Your Answer: The Na + /K + ATPase pump uses energy derived from ATP hydrolysis.
Correct Answer: The Na + /K + ATPase pump moves 3 Na + ions into the cell for every 2 K + ions out.
Explanation:In order for primary active transport to pump ions against their electrochemical gradient, chemical energy is used in the form of ATP. The Na+/K+-ATPase antiporter pump uses metabolic energy to move 3 Na+ions out of the cell for every 2 K+ions in, against their respective electrochemical gradients. As a result, the cell the maintains a high intracellular concentration of K+ions and a low concentration of Na+ions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Basic Cellular
- Physiology
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Question 62
Incorrect
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Regarding fat digestion, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: Bilirubin in bile emulsifies fat to increase surface area for enzymatic digestion by pancreatic lipase.
Correct Answer: Chylomicrons consist of a cholesterol and triglyceride core with a phospholipid coat studded with apolipoproteins.
Explanation:Dietary fat is chiefly composed of triglycerides. In the duodenum fat is emulsified by bile acids, a process where larger lipid droplets are broken down into much smaller droplets providing a greater surface area for enzymatic digestion. Once inside the epithelial cell, lipid is taken into the smooth endoplasmic reticulum where much of it is re esterified. Dietary and synthesised lipids are then incorporated into chylomicrons in the Golgi body, which are exocytosed from the basolateral membrane to enter lacteals. Chylomicrons consist mainly of triglyceride with small amounts of cholesterol and cholesteryl esters in the centre with a phospholipid coat studded with apolipoproteins. Fat-soluble are absorbed into enterocytes from micelles by simple diffusion together with the products of fat digestion.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Physiology
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Question 63
Correct
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In all of the following conditions, lymphocytosis typically occurs except for:
Your Answer: Corticosteroid therapy
Explanation:In infants and young children, lymphocytosis often occurs in response to infections that would normally produce a neutrophil reaction in adults.Lymphocytosis occurs in:1. Viral infections (e.g. infectious mononucleosis, HIV, rubella, mumps, viral hepatitis, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex or zoster)2. Bacterial infections (e.g. pertussis, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, syphilis)3. Chronic lymphoid leukaemias4. Acute lymphoblastic leukaemias5. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma6. Thyrotoxicosis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immune Responses
- Pathology
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Question 64
Incorrect
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Where does angiotensin II directly act on the renal nephron:
Your Answer: Distal convoluted tubule
Correct Answer: Proximal tubule
Explanation:Angiotensin II acts to directly increase Na+reabsorption from the proximal tubule (by activating Na+/H+antiporters).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 65
Correct
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A thyroid function test is done for a 55-year-old woman with non-specific symptoms, the results are shown below:TSH = 5.2Free T4 is normalFree T3 is normalThe most likely diagnosis in this patient is?
Your Answer: Subclinical hypothyroidism
Explanation:Hypothyroidism is diagnosed using the results of thyroid function tests (TFTs). In the early stages of the disease, the earliest biochemical change noticed is a rise in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Free triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels are usually normal.In primary hypothyroidism, the serum TSH level is usually greater than 10 mU/L, and free T4 levels are below the reference range.Subclinical hypothyroidism is diagnosed when the serum TSH level is above the reference range, and the free T4 levels are within the reference range. The test should, however, be repeated after 3-6 months to exclude transient causes of raised TSH.In summary, how to interpret TFTs in cases of suspected hypothyroidism is shown below:Subclinical hypothyroidismTSH is raisedFree T4 is normalFree T3 is normalPrimary hypothyroidismTSH is raisedFree T4 is loweredFree T3 is lowered or normalSecondary hypothyroidismTSH is lowered or normalFree T4 is loweredFree T3 is lowered or normal
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine Physiology
- Physiology
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Question 66
Correct
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A 25-year old male is brought to the emergency room after a traffic accident. Upon examination, there was tenderness and erythema on the right acromioclavicular joint, with notable step deformity. On radiographic imaging, there is a superior elevation of the clavicle, a twice than normal coracoclavicular distance, and absence of fracture.Which of the following structure/s is/are likely to have ruptured?
Your Answer: Acromioclavicular ligament, coracoclavicular ligament and joint capsule
Explanation:Acromioclavicular joint injuries account for more than forty percent of all shoulder injuries. Mild injuries are not associated with any significant morbidity, but severe injuries can lead to significant loss of strength and function of the shoulder. Acromioclavicular injuries may be associated with a fractured clavicle, impingement syndromes, and more rarely neurovascular insults.The AC joint is a diarthrodial joint defined by the lateral process of the clavicle articulating with the acromion process as it projects anteriorly off the scapula. The joint is primarily stabilized by the acromioclavicular ligament, which is composed of an anterior, posterior, inferior, and superior component. Of note, the superior portion of the AC ligament is the most important component for the stability of the AC joint. Supporting structures include two coracoclavicular ligaments (trapezoid and conoid ligaments), which provide vertical stability, as well as the coracoacromial ligament.Patients with an AC joint injury typically present with anterosuperior shoulder pain and will describe a mechanism of injury of blunt trauma to the abducted shoulder or landing on an outstretched arm, suggestive of this type of injury. They may describe pain radiating to the neck or shoulder, which is often worse with movement or when they try to sleep on the affected shoulder. On examination, the clinician may observe swelling, bruising, or a deformity of the AC joint, depending on the degree of injury. The patient will be tender at that location. They may have a restriction in the active and passive range of motion secondary to pain. Piano key sign may be seen, with an elevation of the clavicle that rebounds after inferior compression.Standard X-rays are adequate to make a diagnosis of acromioclavicular joint injury and should be used to evaluate for other causes of traumatic shoulder pain.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 67
Correct
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A patient presents to your Emergency Department with a laceration on their buttocks requiring closure with sutures.What stage of wound healing is the first to reach completion?
Your Answer: Haemostasis
Explanation:The stages of wound healing are: haemostasis, inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling (maturation) phases in that order. The first stage in the healing process of a laceration is haemostasis. Haemostasis is the process of the wound being closed by clotting. The inflammatory phase occurs just after and up to 48 hours after injury– Blood vessels dilate to allow white blood cells, antibodies, growth factors, enzymes and nutrients to reach the wounded area leading to the characteristic signs of inflammation seen. Epithelialisation and angiogenesis are not phases of wound healing but occur during the proliferative phase. This ia after haemolysis and inflammation phases have occurred.The maturation phase is the final phase and occurs when the wound has closed. It involves remodelling of collagen from type III to type I. Apoptosis remove unwanted cells, cellular activity reduces and the number of blood vessels in the wounded area regresses and decreases. This can continues for up to 1 year after injury.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 68
Correct
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Gentamicin is contraindicated in which of the following:
Your Answer: Myasthenia gravis
Explanation:Gentamicin is the aminoglycoside of choice in the UK and is used widely for the treatment of serious infections. It has a broad spectrum but is inactive against anaerobes and has poor activity against haemolytic streptococci and pneumococci. When used for the blind therapy of undiagnosed serious infections it is usually given in conjunction with a penicillin or metronidazole (or both). The main toxic effects are nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity due to damage to the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII).Gentamicin is contraindicated in myasthenia gravis and should be used with caution in renal disease which may result in accumulation and a greater risk of toxic side effects.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 69
Correct
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A possible diagnosis of Cushing's illness is being investigated in an overweight patient with resistant hypertension. A CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) test is scheduled.Which of the following statements about corticotropin-releasing hormone is correct?
Your Answer: It is produced by cells within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus
Explanation:Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a neurotransmitter and peptide hormone. It is generated by cells in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and released into the hypothalamo-hypophyseal portal system at the median eminence through neurosecretory terminals of these neurons. Stress causes the release of CRH.The CRH is carried to the anterior pituitary through the hypothalamo-hypophyseal portal system, where it activates corticotrophs to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Cortisol, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and DHEA are all produced in response to ACTH.Excessive CRH production causes the size and quantity of corticotrophs in the anterior pituitary to expand, which can lead to the creation of a corticotrope tumour that generates too much ACTH.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine Physiology
- Physiology
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Question 70
Incorrect
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Intravenous glucose solutions are typically used in the treatment of all of the following situations except:
Your Answer: Hyperkalaemia
Correct Answer: Hypokalaemia
Explanation:In hypokalaemia, initial potassium replacement therapy should not involve glucose infusions, as glucose may cause a further decrease in the plasma-potassium concentration. Glucose infusions are used for the other indications like diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoglycaemia, routine fluid maintenance in patients who are nil by mouth (very important in children), and in hyperkalaemia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Fluids And Electrolytes
- Pharmacology
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Question 71
Correct
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A 70-year-old man presents with right-sided hemiplegia and loss of joint position sense, vibratory sense, and discriminatory touch. Upon further physical examination, it was observed that her tongue deviates to the left-hand side. An MRI and CT scan was ordered and results showed that he was suffering a left-sided stroke. Which of the following is considered the best diagnosis for the case presented above?
Your Answer: Medial medullary syndrome
Explanation:Medial medullary syndrome is a form of stroke that affects the medial medulla of the brain. It is caused by a lesion in the medial part of the medulla, which is due to an infraction of vertebral arteries and/or paramedian branches of the anterior spinal artery.It is characterized by contralateral paralysis of the upper and lower limb of the body, a contralateral decrease in proprioception, vibration, and/or fine touch sensation, paresthesias or less commonly dysesthesias in the contralateral trunk and lower limb, and loss of position and vibration sense with proprioceptive dysfunction. Ipsilateral deviation of the tongue due to ipsilateral hypoglossal nerve damage can also be seen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 72
Correct
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A 22-year-old student presents with severe headache accompanied with nausea and vomiting. Upon observation and examination, it was noted that he is febrile and Kernig's sign is positive. A diagnosis of meningitis was suspected and a lumbar puncture was to be performed.Which of the following statements regarding meningitis is true?
Your Answer: The dura mater is the outermost layer
Explanation:Meningitis is defined as the inflammation of the meninges due to an infection caused by a bacteria or a virus. Symptoms usually include stiffness of the neck, headache, and fever. There are 3 meningeal layers that surround the spinal cord and they are the dura mater, arachnoid matter, and pia mater. The dura mater is the outermost and thickest layer out of all the 3 layers. The arachnoid atter is the middle layer, and is very thin.The third and deepest meningeal layer is the pia mater that is bound tightly to the surface of the spinal cord.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 73
Correct
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What is nimodipine used predominantly in the treatment of?
Your Answer: Prevention and treatment of vascular spasm following subarachnoid haemorrhage
Explanation:Nimodipine is a smooth muscle relaxant that is related to nifedipine, but the effects preferentially act on cerebral arteries. It is exclusively used for the prevention and treatment of vascular spasm after an aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Pharmacology
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Question 74
Incorrect
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Which statement accurately describes the osmolality in the various parts of the Henle Loop?
Your Answer: The osmolality of fluid in the ascending loop equals that of the peritubular fluid
Correct Answer: The osmolality of fluid in the descending loop equals that of the peritubular fluid
Explanation:The Loop of Henle connects the proximal tubule to the distal convoluted tubule and lies parallel to the collecting ducts. It consists of three major segments, including the descending thin limb, the ascending thin limb, and the ascending thick limb. These segments are differentiated based on structure, anatomic location, and function. The main function of the loop of Henle is to recover water and sodium chloride from urine. When fluid enters the loop of Henle, it has an osmolality of approximately 300 mOsm, and the main solute is sodium. The thin descending limb has a high water permeability but a low ion permeability. Because it lacks solute transporters, it cannot reabsorb sodium. Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) channels are used to passively absorb water in this area. The peritubular fluid becomes increasingly concentrated as the loop descends into the medulla, causing water to osmose out of the tubule. The tubular fluid in this area now equalizes to the osmolality of the peritubular fluid, to a maximum of approximately 1200 mOsm in a long medullary loop of Henle and 600 mOsm in a short cortical loop of Henle. The thin ascending limb is highly permeable to ions and impermeable to water. It allows the passive movement of sodium, chloride, and urea down their concentration gradients, so urea enters the tubule and sodium and chloride leave. Reabsorption occurs paracellularly due to the difference in osmolarity between the tubule and the interstitium. The thick ascending limb is also impermeable to water but actively transports sodium, potassium, and chloride out of the tubular fluid. The osmolality of the tubular fluid is lower compared to the surrounding peritubular fluid. This area is water impermeable. This results in tubular fluid leaving the loop of Henle with an osmolality of approximately 100 mOsm, which is lower than the osmolality of the fluid entering the loop, and urea being the solute.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal Physiology
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Question 75
Correct
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A 22-year-old man comes to the emergency department with a human bite injury to his hand received from a punch during a fight 3 hours earlier outside a bar. On closer inspection, you discover bite marks on his first and second knuckles. Which of the following is the best treatment option for this patient:
Your Answer: Oral co-amoxiclav for 7 days
Explanation:Even if there is no evidence of infection, prophylactic antibiotics should be administered for all human bite wounds that are less than 72 hours old. The first-line therapy is 7 days of co-amoxiclav. In penicillin-allergic people, metronidazole + doxycycline is an option. Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus spp., Eikenella corrodens, Bacteroides spp., and other anaerobes are the most prevalent organisms found in human bites.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Microbiology
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Question 76
Incorrect
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Regarding the lacrimal apparatus, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: The nasolacrimal duct empties into the middle nasal meatus.
Correct Answer: Lacrimal fluid is drained from the eyeball through the lacrimal punctum.
Explanation:Lacrimal fluid is drained from the eyeball through the lacrimal punctum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Head And Neck
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Question 77
Correct
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A patient suffered from a chest injury while working out in the gym. As a consequence of his injury, his pectoralis minor muscle was damaged.Which of the following statements regarding the pectoralis minor muscle is considered correct?
Your Answer: It stabilises the scapula
Explanation:The pectoralis minor, in comparison to the pectoralis major, is much thinner and triangular in shape and resides below the major. It originates from the margins of the third to fifth ribs adjacent to the costochondral junction. The fibres consequently pass upward and laterally to insert into the medial border and superior surface of the coracoid process. It is crucial in the stabilization of the scapula by pulling it downward and anteriorly against the thoracic wall.Arterial supply to the pectoralis minor also derives from the pectoral branch of the thoracoacromial trunk. Nerve supply of the pectoralis minor is a function of the lateral pectoral nerve and the medial pectoral nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 78
Correct
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A 60-year-old female presents with fatigue, easy bruising and repeated chest and skin infections for five months. She also complains about several episodes of nosebleeds over the last few days without any history of trauma. Her complete blood count shows the following results: Hb 9 g/dlTotal leukocyte count: 2.5x10^9/L, 1100 neutrophils/ųLMCV 100platelet count of 90,000/ųL. Which one of the following conditions does this patient most likely have?
Your Answer: Myelodysplastic syndrome
Explanation:Myelodysplastic syndromes are a group of clonal haematopoietic disorders which are characterised by anaemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Patients will complain of fatigue, symptoms of thrombocytopenia such as nosebleeds and easy bleeding and a history of repeated infections due to low white blood cells (especially Neutrophils). In Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia production of hematopoietic cells goes on for a longer time. Folate and B12 deficiency would result in hypersegmented neutrophils and a raised MCV. Iron deficiency anaemia would not cause neutropenia or thrombocytopenia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 79
Incorrect
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A patient presents with a rash for dermatological examination. A large area of purplish discolouration of the skin that measures 2 cm in diameter and does not blanch when pressure is applied is seen .What is the best description of this rash that you have found on examination?
Your Answer: Purpura
Correct Answer: Ecchymoses
Explanation:Ecchymosis are discolouration of the skin or mucous membranes caused by extravasation of blood. They are usually red or purple in colour and measure greater than 1 cm in diameter and do not blanch on applying pressure. A macule is a flat, well circumscribed area of discoloured skin less than 1 cm in diameter with no changes in the thickness or texture of the skin. Petechiae are discolouration of the skin measuring less than 3 mm in diameterPurpura are discolouration of the skin measuring between 0.3 cm and 1 cm in diameter.Erythema is redness of the skin or mucous membranes caused by hyperaemia of superficial capillaries caused by skin injury, infection or inflammation. Erythema blanches when pressure is applied whereas ecchymosis, purpura and petechiae do not.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 80
Incorrect
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Pancreatic acinar digestive enzyme secretion is mainly stimulated by which of the following hormones:
Your Answer: Secretin
Correct Answer: Cholecystokinin
Explanation:Exocrine pancreatic secretion is controlled by:Parasympathetic stimulation which enhances secretion of both the enzyme and aqueous componentsSympathetic stimulation which inhibits pancreatic secretionSecretin which stimulates secretion of the alkaline-rich fluid from ductal cellsCholecystokinin which stimulates secretion of the enzyme-rich fluid from acinar cellsSomatostatin which inhibits secretion from both acinar and ductal cellsGastrin which stimulates pancreatic acinar cells to secrete digestive enzymes
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Physiology
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Question 81
Correct
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A patient noticed ankle swelling and has passed very little urine over the past 24 hours. He also has nausea and vomiting, reduced urine output and his blood results reveal a sudden rise in his creatinine levels over the past 48 hours. You make a diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI).Which one of these is a prerenal cause of AKI?
Your Answer: Cardiac failure
Explanation:The causes of AKI can be divided into pre-renal, intrinsic renal and post-renal causes. Majority of AKI developing in the community is due to a pre-renal causes (90% of cases).Pre-renal causes: Haemorrhage, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, burns, cardiac failure, liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, hypotension, severe cardiac failure, NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, ACE inhibitors or ARBs, Abdominal aortic aneurysm, renal artery stenosis, hepatorenal syndrome, Intrinsic (renal) causes:Eclampsia, glomerulonephritis, thrombosis, haemolytic-uraemic syndrome, acute tubular necrosis (ATN), acute interstitial nephritis, drugs ( NSAIDs), infection or autoimmune diseases, vasculitis, polyarteritis nodosa, thrombotic microangiopathy, cholesterol emboli, renal vein thrombosis, malignant hypertensionPost-renal causes: Renal stones, Blood clot, Papillary necrosis, Urethral stricture, Prostatic hypertrophy or malignancy, Bladder tumour, Radiation fibrosis, Pelvic malignancy, Retroperitoneal fibrosis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 82
Correct
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A newborn baby is rushed to the neonatal ICU 4 hours after birth due to sudden onset severe jaundice and generalised oedema. Family history reveals that this is the second baby, while blood testing shows that the mother has an Rh-negative blood group while the baby is Rh-positive. A diagnosis of haemolytic disease of the newborn is established. Which one of the following hypersensitivity reactions have occurred in this case?
Your Answer: Type II hypersensitivity reaction
Explanation:Hepatitis A usually doesn’t pose a special risk to a pregnant woman or her baby. Maternal infection doesn’t result in birth defects, and a mother typically doesn’t transmit the infection to her baby. HAV is almost always transmitted by the faecal-oral route and is usually acquired through close personal contact or via contaminated food.When a woman has chickenpox in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, there is a 1 in 50 chance for the baby to develop a set of birth defects. This is called the congenital varicella syndrome. It includes scars, defects of muscle and bone, malformed and paralyzed limbs, small head size, blindness, seizures, and intellectual disability.TORCH Syndrome refers to infection of a developing foetus or newborn by any of a group of infectious agents. “TORCH” is an acronym meaning (T)oxoplasmosis, (O)ther Agents, (R)ubella (also known as German Measles), (C)ytomegalovirus, and (H)erpes Simplex.Infection with any of these agents may cause a constellation of similar symptoms in affected newborns. These may include fever; difficulties feeding; small areas of bleeding under the skin, causing the appearance of small reddish or purplish spots; enlargement of the liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly); yellowish discoloration of the skin, whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes (jaundice); hearing impairment; abnormalities of the eyes; and other symptoms and findings.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- General Pathology
- Pathology
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Question 83
Correct
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Regarding gas exchange at the alveolar-capillary membrane, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: The rate of diffusion in lungs can be estimated by measuring the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide.
Explanation:Gas exchange between alveolar air and blood in the pulmonary capillaries takes place by diffusion across the alveolar-capillary membrane. Diffusion occurs from an area of high partial pressure to an area of low partial pressure, thus the driving force for diffusion is the alveolar-capillary partial pressure gradient. Diffusion occurs across a membrane and is therefore governed by Fick’s law. Although CO2is larger than O2, it is is much more soluble and diffuses 20 times more rapidly. The diffusing capacity for oxygen (DLO2) cannot be measured directly but the rate of diffusion in the lungs can be estimated by measuring the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Respiratory
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Question 84
Incorrect
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A young patient presents with the features of an easily recognisable infectious disease.Which of the following infectious diseases typically has an incubation period of less than 1 week? Select ONE answer only.
Your Answer: Measles
Correct Answer: Cholera
Explanation:Cholera has an incubation period of 12 hours to 6 days.Other infectious disease that have an incubation period of less than 1 week include:Staphylococcal enteritis (1-6 hours)Salmonella enteritis (12-24 hours)Botulism (18-36 hours)Gas gangrene (6 hours to 4 days)Scarlet fever (1-4 days)Diphtheria (2-5 days)Gonorrhoea (3-5 days)Yellow fever (3-6 days)Meningococcaemia (1-7 days)Brucellosis has an incubation period of 7-21 days.Measles has an incubation period of 14-18 days.Falciparum malaria usually has an incubation period of 7-14 days. The other forms of malaria have a longer incubation period of 12-40 days.Rubella has an incubation period of 14-21 days.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Specific Pathogen Groups
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Question 85
Incorrect
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An 80-year-old woman with history of hypertension, diabetes, and ischemic stroke, presents with left-sided hemiplegia of the face, tongue, and limbs and right-sided deficits in motor eye activity. A CT scan was ordered and showed a right-sided stroke. Branches of which of the following arteries are most likely implicated in the case?
Your Answer: Posterior cerebral artery
Correct Answer: Basilar artery
Explanation:Weber syndrome is a midbrain stroke characterized by crossed hemiplegia along with oculomotor nerve deficits and it occurs with the occlusion of the median and/or paramedian perforating branches of the basilar artery. Typical clinical findings include ipsilateral CN III palsy, ptosis, and mydriasis (such as damage to parasympathetic fibres of CN III) with contralateral hemiplegia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Central Nervous System
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Question 86
Incorrect
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Which of the following blood groups is the least common in the UK:
Your Answer: O
Correct Answer: AB
Explanation:Blood group O is the most common in the UK (46 %), followed by group A (42 %), group B (9 %) and finally group AB (3 %).Blood group O has no antigens, but both anti-A and anti-B antibodies and thus is the universal donor. Blood group AB has both A and B antigens but no antibodies and thus is the universal recipient.Blood group A has A antigens and anti-B antibodies and blood group B has B antigens and anti-A antibodies.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immune Responses
- Pathology
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Question 87
Correct
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Normal human immunoglobulin is mostly used to protect against which of the following infectious diseases?
Your Answer: Measles and hepatitis A
Explanation:Immune globulin IM is indicated for prophylaxis following exposureto hepatitis A, to prevent or modify measles (rubeola) in a susceptible person exposed fewer than 6 days previously,for susceptible household contacts of measles patients,particularly contacts <1 year and pregnant women without evidence of immunity, and to modify rubella in exposed pregnant women who will not consider a therapeutic abortion.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunoglobulins And Vaccines
- Pharmacology
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Question 88
Incorrect
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All of the following statements are considered true regarding randomized control trials, except:
Your Answer: They can overcome small sample sizes
Correct Answer: They can eliminate the need for further studies
Explanation:Meta-analysis is a quantitative, formal, epidemiological study design used to systematically assess previous research studies to derive conclusions about that body of research. Outcomes from a meta-analysis may include a more precise estimate of the effect of treatment or risk factor for disease, or other outcomes, than any individual study contributing to the pooled analysis. The examination of variability or heterogeneity in study results is also a critical outcome.The benefits of meta-analysis include a consolidated and quantitative review of a large, and often complex, sometimes apparently conflicting, body of literature. The specification of the outcome and hypotheses that are tested is critical to the conduct of meta-analyses, as is a sensitive literature search.Important medical questions are typically studied more than once, often by different research teams in different locations. In many instances, the results of these multiple small studies of an issue are diverse and conflicting, which makes the clinical decision-making difficult. The need to arrive at decisions affecting clinical practise fostered the momentum toward evidence-based medicine. Evidence-based medicine may be defined as the systematic, quantitative, preferentially experimental approach to obtaining and using medical information. Therefore, meta-analysis, a statistical procedure that integrates the results of several independent studies, plays a central role in evidence-based medicine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 89
Correct
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Regarding benzodiazepines, which of the following statements is INCORRECT:
Your Answer: Diazepam is a short-acting benzodiazepine.
Explanation:Diazepam is used to produce mild sedation with amnesia. It is a long-acting drug with active metabolites and a second period of drowsiness can occur several hours after its administration. Midazolam is a water-soluble benzodiazepine that is often used in preference to intravenous diazepam; recovery is faster than from diazepam, but may be significantly longer in the elderly, in patients with a low cardiac output, or after repeated dosing. Midazolam is associated with profound sedation when high doses are given intravenously or when it is used with certain other drugs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anaesthesia
- Pharmacology
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Question 90
Correct
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Glucagon may be used as an antidote for overdose with which of the following:
Your Answer: Beta blockers
Explanation:Glucagon is a peptide hormone that is produced and secreted by alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans, which are located in the endocrine portion of the pancreas. The main physiological role of glucagon is to stimulate hepatic glucose output, thereby leading to increases in glycaemia. It provides the major counter-regulatory mechanism to insulin in maintaining glucose homeostasis.Hypoglycaemia is the principal stimulus for the secretion of glucagon but may also be used as an antidote in beta-blocker overdose and in anaphylaxis in patients on beta-blockers that fail to respond to adrenaline. Glucagon then causes:GlycogenolysisGluconeogenesisLipolysis in adipose tissueThe secretion of glucagon is also stimulated by:AdrenalineCholecystokininArginineAlanineAcetylcholineThe secretion of glucagon is inhibited by:InsulinSomatostatinIncreased free fatty acidsIncreased urea productionGlycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate. The free energy released by this process is used to form ATP and NADH. Glycolysis is inhibited by glucagon, and glycolysis and gluconeogenesis are reciprocally regulated so that when one cell pathway is activated, the other is inactive and vice versa.Glucagon has a minor effect of enhancing lipolysis in adipose tissue. Lipolysis is the breakdown of lipids and involves the hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids. It makes fatty acids available for oxidation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrine
- Pharmacology
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Question 91
Correct
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Glomerular filtration rate can be calculated using any substance that:
Your Answer: is freely filtered and neither reabsorbed nor secreted by the nephron
Explanation:Clearance of a substance can provide an accurate estimate of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) provided that the substance is:freely filterednot reabsorbed in the nephronnot secreted in the nephronnot synthesised or metabolised by the kidney
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Physiology
- Renal
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Question 92
Correct
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During bedside rounds, an 82-year old female in the Medicine Ward complains of pain and tingling of all fingers of the right hand. The attending physician is considering carpal tunnel syndrome.Which of the following is expected to undergo atrophy in carpal tunnel syndrome?
Your Answer: The thenar eminence
Explanation:Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is an entrapment neuropathy caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. It is the most common nerve entrapment neuropathy, accounting for 90% of all neuropathies. Early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, numbness, and paraesthesia’s. These symptoms typically present, with some variability, in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the radial half (thumb side) of the ring finger. Pain also can radiate up the affected arm. With further progression, hand weakness, decreased fine motor coordination, clumsiness, and thenar atrophy can occur.The muscles innervated by the median nerve can be remembered using the mnemonic ‘LOAF’:L– lateral two lumbricalsO– Opponens pollicisA– Abductor pollicisF– Flexor pollicis brevisIn the early presentation of the disease, symptoms most often present at night when lying down and are relieved during the day. With further progression of the disease, symptoms will also be present during the day, especially with certain repetitive activities, such as when drawing, typing, or playing video games. In more advanced disease, symptoms can be constant.Typical occupations of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome include those who use computers for extended periods of time, those who use equipment that has vibration such as construction workers, and any other occupation requiring frequent, repetitive movement.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Anatomy
- Upper Limb
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Question 93
Incorrect
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A 61-year-old woman returns to get the results of recent blood tests she had done for non-specific malaise, lethargy, and weight loss. The only abnormality discovered during the blood tests was a 580 x 10 9 /l increase in platelets. Her platelets were also elevated on a blood test taken 6 months earlier, according to her previous results. You're aware of the recent emergence of elevated platelet levels as a cancer risk marker and decide to look into it.Which of the following cancers is most likely to cause isolated thrombocytosis?
Your Answer: Multiple myeloma
Correct Answer: Colorectal cancer
Explanation:Raised platelet levels have emerged as a cancer risk marker, according to a large population-based study published in 2017(link is external). According to the study, 12 percent of men and 6% of women with thrombocytosis were diagnosed with cancer within a year. These figures increased to 18% in men and 10% in women if a second platelet count was taken within 6 months of the first and showed an increased or stable elevated platelet count.The researchers discovered that thrombocytosis linked to cancer is most common in colorectal and lung cancers, and it is linked to a worse prognosis. Furthermore, one-third of the cancer patients in the study had no other symptoms that would have prompted an immediate cancer referral.The exact mechanism by which these cancers cause thrombocytosis is unknown, but one theory proposes the existence of pathogenic feedback loops between malignant cells and platelets, with a reciprocal interaction between tumour growth and metastasis, as well as thrombocytosis and platelet activation. Another hypothesis is that thrombocytosis occurs independently of cancer but aids in its spread and progression.The findings show that routinely testing for thrombocytosis could cut the time it takes to diagnose colorectal and lung cancer by at least two months. In the UK, this could result in around 5500 earlier cancer diagnoses per year.Because the positive predictive value of thrombocytosis in middle age for cancer (10%) is higher than the positive predictive value for a woman in her 50s presenting with a new breast lump (8.5%), this is clearly an important research paper that should be used to adjust future clinical practise. The current NICE guidelines predate these new research findings, so we’ll have to wait and see how they affect cancer referral guidelines in the UK.Because there are so many possible cancers associated with thrombocytosis, the treating clinician should take a thorough history and perform a thorough clinical examination if a patient is diagnosed with it. Further investigation and the most appropriate referral route should be aided by this information.It’s worth noting that the patients in the study had their blood tests done for a medical reason rather than as a random screening test.If there are no other symptoms to guide investigation and referral (one-third of the patients in the study had no other symptoms), keep in mind that the two most common cancers encountered were colorectal and lung cancer, so a chest X-ray and a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) for faecal blood may be reasonable initial investigations.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 94
Correct
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Which of the following is considered the best source of information if a research on the national hospital MRSA rates is being done?
Your Answer: Hospital Episode Statistics
Explanation:Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) is a data warehouse containing details of all admissions, outpatient appointments and A and E attendances at NHS hospitals in England.Each HES record contains a wide range of information about an individual patient admitted to an NHS hospital, including:- clinical information about diagnoses and operations- patient information, such as age group, gender and ethnicity- administrative information, such as dates and methods of admission and discharge- geographical information such as where patients are treated and the area where they liveSome benefits of HES include:- monitor trends and patterns in NHS hospital activity- assess effective delivery of care- support local service planning- reveal health trends over time- determine fair access to health care
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Evidence Based Medicine
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Question 95
Correct
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Regarding Clostridium difficile, which of the following statements is CORRECT:
Your Answer: It is normally found in gut flora.
Explanation:C. difficile is normally found in the gut flora but its growth is normally suppressed by more dominant anaerobes. It has exotoxin-mediated effects causing profuse diarrhoea. Oral clindamycin (a broad spectrum antibiotic) is commonly implicated in precipitating C. difficile colitis; first line treatment is with oral metronidazole. Tetanolysin is a toxin produced by Clostridium tetani bacteria.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Microbiology
- Pathogens
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Question 96
Incorrect
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An 11-year-old presented to a GP with a history of headache, neck stiffness and photophobia. On examination, HR is 122, BP is 87/42, RR is 28, SaO 2 is 95%, temperature is 39.4 o C. There is a recent petechial rash on legs and arms. The GP administered a dose of antibiotics in the prehospital setting before transferring to the Emergency Department.Which of these would the GP have administered?
Your Answer: IM benzylpenicillin 1.2 g
Correct Answer: IM benzylpenicillin 600 mg
Explanation:General Practitioners are advised to give a single injection of benzylpenicillin by intravenous or intramuscular injection before transferring the patient urgently to the ED when bacterial meningitis is suspected.The recommended doses are:Infants under 1 year: 300 mgChildren ages 1 to 9 years: 600 mgChildren aged 10 years and over: 1.2gAdults: 1.2g
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infections
- Pharmacology
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Question 97
Correct
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Which of the following is NOT a heritable risk factor for venous thrombosis:
Your Answer: Von Willebrand disease
Explanation:Approximately one-third of patients who suffer DVT or PE have an identifiable heritable risk factor, although additional risk factors are usually present when they develop the thrombosis. The history of a spontaneous DVT in a close relative increases an individual’s risk of DVT even if no known genetic predisposition can be identified.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Pathology
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Question 98
Incorrect
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A 34-year-old man arrives at the department befuddled. He has a history of schizophrenia and is on an antipsychotic medication, but he can't recall what it's called.Which of the following statements about antipsychotic drug side effects is correct?
Your Answer: Akathisia is an inability to initiate movement
Correct Answer: Haloperidol is the most common causative antipsychotic drug
Explanation:Extrapyramidal side effects are most common with piperazine phenothiazines (fluphenazine, prochlorperazine, and trifluoperazine) and butyrophenones (fluphenazine, prochlorperazine, and trifluoperazine) (benperidol and haloperidol). The most common causative antipsychotic drug is haloperidol.Tardive dyskinesia (rhythmic, involuntary movements of the tongue, face, and jaw) is most commonly associated with long-term or high-dose treatment. It is the most serious form of extrapyramidal symptoms because withdrawal of the causative drug may make it irreversible, and treatment is usually ineffective.Dystonia (abnormal facial and body movements) is more common in children and young adults, and it usually shows up after only a few doses. Procyclidine 5 mg IV or benzatropine 2 mg IV as a bolus can be used to treat acute dystonia.An unpleasant feeling of restlessness characterises akathisia. The inability to initiate movement is known as akinesia.Renal impairment causes increased cerebral sensitivity, so lower doses should be used.In elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis who are treated with haloperidol, there is an increased risk of death. This appears to be due to a higher risk of heart attacks and infections like pneumonia.The following are some of the antipsychotic drugs’ contraindications:Reduced level of consciousness/comaDepression of the central nervous systemPhaeochromocytoma
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This question is part of the following fields:
- CNS Pharmacology
- Pharmacology
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Question 99
Incorrect
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C5 - C9 deficiency increases susceptibility to infection with which of the following:
Your Answer: Encapsulated bacteria
Correct Answer: Neisseria spp.
Explanation:If the complement sequence is completed, an active phospholipase (the membrane attack complex, MAC) is produced, which punches holes in the cell membrane and causes cell lysis. Because the MAC appears to be the sole means to destroy the Neisseria family of bacteria, C5 – C9 deficiency increases susceptibility to Neisseria infections.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immune Responses
- Pathology
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Question 100
Correct
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Regarding the routine childhood immunisation schedule, which of the following vaccines is given to preschool children (aged 3 years and 4 months):
Your Answer: Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
Explanation:The current UK childhood immunisation schedule is as follows:8 weeks:DTaP/IPV(polio)/Hib/Hep B (diptheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio,Haemophilus influenzatype b and hepatitis B) – 6-in-one injection (Infranix hexa);plus:Rotavirus gastroenteritis (Rotarix) – oral route (drops)Meningitis B (Bexsero)12 weeks:DTaP/IPV(polio)/Hib/Hep B – 2nddose: 6-in-one injection, 2nddose (Infranix hexa);plus:PCV (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) – in a separate injection (Prevenar 13)Rotavirus gastroenteritis 2nddose (Rotarix) – oral route (drops)16 weeks:DTaP/IPV(polio)/Hib/Hep B – 3rddose: 6-in-one injection, 3rddose (Infranix hexa);plus:Meningitis B 2nddose (Bexsero)Between 12 and 13 months:Hib/Men C (combined as one injection) – 4th dose of Hib and 1stdose of Meningitis C (Menitorix);plus:MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) – combined as one injection (Priorix or M-M-RVAXPRO);plus:PCV (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) – 2nddose in a separate injection (Prevenar 13);plus:Meningitis B 3rddose (Bexsero)From 2 to end of primary school:Nasal flu spray (Fluenz Tetra). For children aged 2,3 and 4, this is usually given in the GP surgery. Children in school years 1,2 and 3 may have this at school.3 years and 4 months:Pre-school booster of DTaP/IPV (polio) – 4-in-one injection (Repevax or Infanrix-IPV);plus:MMR – 2nd dose (Priorix or M-M-RVAXPRO) – in a separate injectionBetween 12 and 13 years:HPV (human papilloma virus types 6,11, 16 and 18) –twoinjections of Gardasil given. The second injection is given 6-24 months after the first one.14 years:Td/IPV (polio) booster – 3-in-one injection (Revaxis)Men ACWY: combined protection against meningitis A, C, W and Y (Nimenrix or Menveo)The BCG vaccination against tuberculosis is only offered to neonates in high-risk areas or with high-risk backgrounds. When required it is usually given before leaving the hospital soon after birth.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunoglobulins And Vaccines
- Pharmacology
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