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  • Question 1 - What medication is approved for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults (individuals...

    Correct

    • What medication is approved for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults (individuals aged 18 and above) in the UK?

      Your Answer: Atomoxetine

      Explanation:

      There are several licensed options for treating ADHD in adults, including lisdexamfetamine, atomoxetine, dexamphetamine, and methylphenidate.

      ADHD Diagnosis and Management in Adults

      ADHD is a behavioural syndrome characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The DSM-5 and ICD-11 provide diagnostic criteria for ADHD, with the DSM-5 recognising three subtypes of the condition: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

      Treatment for ADHD in adults includes medication and non-pharmacological interventions. NICE recommends offering medication to adults with ADHD if their symptoms are still causing significant impairment after environmental modifications have been implemented and reviewed. Methylphenidate of lisdexamfetamine are first-line medications, with atomoxetine offered for those who cannot tolerate the former two. Additional medication options may be considered with advice from a tertiary ADHD service.

      NICE advises against elimination diets, dietary fatty acid supplementation, and the use of the ‘few foods diet’ for ADHD. Prior to initiating medication, referral to cardiology is recommended if there is a suggestion of cardiac pathology. If a person with ADHD develops mania of psychosis, ADHD treatment should be stopped until the episode has resolved. If a person taking stimulants develops tics, medication options may be adjusted.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 2 - A 45-year-old man is referred to you by his primary care physician. He...

    Incorrect

    • A 45-year-old man is referred to you by his primary care physician. He has a history of anxiety and is currently experiencing symptoms of low mood and difficulty sleeping. The physician is concerned about the possibility of depression.
      During your assessment, you note evidence of low mood, initial insomnia, and some feelings of hopelessness. The patient denies any suicidal thoughts.
      What treatment approach would you avoid as part of his management plan?

      Your Answer: CBT

      Correct Answer: Paroxetine

      Explanation:

      The patient’s symptoms suggest a moderate depressive episode, which can be treated with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) if it is easily accessible. During pregnancy, amitriptyline, imipramine, and fluoxetine are commonly used antidepressants. However, paroxetine should be avoided due to its short half-life, which can lead to neonatal irritability and withdrawal.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 3 - What is the most appropriate option for augmentation in cases of schizophrenia that...

    Correct

    • What is the most appropriate option for augmentation in cases of schizophrenia that are resistant to clozapine?

      Your Answer: Amisulpride

      Explanation:

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 4 - How can one differentiate between a diagnosis of mania and schizophrenia based on...

    Incorrect

    • How can one differentiate between a diagnosis of mania and schizophrenia based on symptoms?

      Your Answer: Thought broadcasting

      Correct Answer: Flight of ideas

      Explanation:

      Although both mania and psychosis can exhibit similar symptoms and signs, individuals with mania are often psychotic and experience delusions of hallucinations. One distinguishing feature of mania is the presence of flight of ideas, which is characterized by rapid changes in topic.

      Mania: Features and Characteristics

      Mania is a mental state characterized by a range of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Some of the key features of mania include an elated of irritable mood, restlessness, and overactivity. People experiencing mania may also exhibit disinhibited and reckless behavior, such as excessive spending of engaging in risky activities. They may have over-ambitious plans for the future and experience a flight of ideas and pressured speech. Additionally, mania can involve mood congruent delusions, increased libido, and a decreased need for sleep. Overall, mania can be a challenging and disruptive condition that requires professional treatment and support.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 5 - A young adult develops tardive dyskinesia while taking haloperidol. What alternative medication should...

    Correct

    • A young adult develops tardive dyskinesia while taking haloperidol. What alternative medication should be considered for their treatment?

      Your Answer: Quetiapine

      Explanation:

      Tardive Dyskinesia: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors, and Management

      Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a condition that affects the face, limbs, and trunk of individuals who have been on neuroleptics for months to years. The movements fluctuate over time, increase with emotional arousal, decrease with relaxation, and disappear with sleep. The cause of TD remains theoretical, but the postsynaptic dopamine (D2) receptor supersensitivity hypothesis is the most persistent. Other hypotheses include the presynaptic dopaminergic/noradrenergic hyperactivity hypothesis, the cholinergic interneuron burnout hypothesis, the excitatory/oxidative stress hypothesis, and the synaptic plasticity hypothesis. Risk factors for TD include advancing age, female sex, ethnicity, longer illness duration, intellectual disability and brain damage, negative symptoms in schizophrenia, mood disorders, diabetes, smoking, alcohol and substance misuse, FGA vs SGA treatment, higher antipsychotic dose, anticholinergic co-treatment, and akathisia.

      Management options for TD include stopping any anticholinergic, reducing antipsychotic dose, changing to an antipsychotic with lower propensity for TD, and using tetrabenazine, vitamin E, of amantadine as add-on options. Clozapine is the antipsychotic most likely to be associated with resolution of symptoms. Vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 (VMAT2) inhibitors are agents that cause a depletion of neuroactive peptides such as dopamine in nerve terminals and are used to treat chorea due to neurodegenerative diseases of dyskinesias due to neuroleptic medications (tardive dyskinesia).

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 6 - What evidence would be most indicative of a diagnosis of mania? ...

    Correct

    • What evidence would be most indicative of a diagnosis of mania?

      Your Answer: Mood congruent delusions

      Explanation:

      Mania: Features and Characteristics

      Mania is a mental state characterized by a range of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Some of the key features of mania include an elated of irritable mood, restlessness, and overactivity. People experiencing mania may also exhibit disinhibited and reckless behavior, such as excessive spending of engaging in risky activities. They may have over-ambitious plans for the future and experience a flight of ideas and pressured speech. Additionally, mania can involve mood congruent delusions, increased libido, and a decreased need for sleep. Overall, mania can be a challenging and disruptive condition that requires professional treatment and support.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 7 - A 25-year-old female attends clinic with her partner due to problems with anxiety....

    Correct

    • A 25-year-old female attends clinic with her partner due to problems with anxiety. During the consultation the partner states that since they moved in together six months ago, he has heard her vomiting in the toilet. The lady admits to this but says she only does this after episodes where she loses control of her eating and eats far more food than she should. The partner comments that what she thinks is a large amount is actually more like a normal portion. She estimates that this happens a couple of times a week. She states that she is very insecure about her weight and can get quite obsessive about checking the calorie content of foods. A physical examination reveals a BMI of 20. Further questioning reveals only a mild anxiety disorder which has been present for approximately two months and is related to stress at work.
      Which of the following diagnoses is most suggested?:

      Your Answer: Bulimia nervosa

      Explanation:

      Based on the information provided, the most likely diagnosis is bulimia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa is not applicable as the individual’s BMI is not significantly low (less than 18.5). Binge eating disorder is also not applicable as the individual engages in compensatory behaviors such as induced vomiting. It is important to note that binge eating episodes can be either objective of subjective, but the key feature is the loss of control overeating.

      Eating disorders are a serious mental health condition that can have severe physical and psychological consequences. The ICD-11 lists several types of eating disorders, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Pica, and Rumination-Regurgitation Disorder.

      Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by significantly low body weight, a persistent pattern of restrictive eating of other behaviors aimed at maintaining low body weight, excessive preoccupation with body weight of shape, and marked distress of impairment in functioning. Bulimia Nervosa involves frequent episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, excessive preoccupation with body weight of shape, and marked distress of impairment in functioning. Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors, marked distress of impairment in functioning, and is more common in overweight and obese individuals. Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder involves avoidance of restriction of food intake that results in significant weight loss of impairment in functioning, but is not motivated by preoccupation with body weight of shape. Pica involves the regular consumption of non-nutritive substances, while Rumination-Regurgitation Disorder involves intentional and repeated regurgitation of previously swallowed food.

      It is important to seek professional help if you of someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder. Treatment may involve a combination of therapy, medication, and nutritional counseling.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 8 - Who is recognized for creating an improved version of CBT specifically designed for...

    Incorrect

    • Who is recognized for creating an improved version of CBT specifically designed for treating eating disorders?

      Your Answer: Klerman

      Correct Answer: Fairburn

      Explanation:

      Although CBT is effective in treating bulimia nervosa, it is not always successful in achieving full and lasting recovery for all patients. To address this, an enhanced form of CBT was developed by Fairburn. This treatment uses a range of strategies and procedures to improve treatment adherence and outcomes, and to identify and address obstacles to change. It has also been adapted to be suitable for all forms of eating disorders, not just bulimia, based on the transdiagnostic theory of the maintenance of eating disorders.

      The enhanced CBT treatment comes in two forms: a focused form that concentrates solely on eating disorder psychopathology, and a broad form that also addresses external barriers to change, such as clinical perfectionism, core low self-esteem, and interpersonal difficulties. Eating disorders are often complex, with patients experiencing other problems such as mood disorders, substance misuse, personality disorders, and physical complications. Enhanced CBT is designed to manage these issues while providing treatment.

      Eating Disorders: NICE Guidelines

      Anorexia:
      For adults with anorexia nervosa, consider individual eating-disorder-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT-ED), Maudsley Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults (MANTRA), of specialist supportive clinical management (SSCM). If these are not acceptable, contraindicated, of ineffective, consider eating-disorder-focused focal psychodynamic therapy (FPT). For children and young people, consider anorexia-nervosa-focused family therapy (FT-AN) of individual CBT-ED. Do not offer medication as the sole treatment.

      Bulimia:
      For adults, the first step is an evidence-based self-help programme. If this is not effective, consider individual CBT-ED. For children and young people, offer bulimia-nervosa-focused family therapy (FT-BN) of individual CBT-ED. Do not offer medication as the sole treatment.

      Binge Eating Disorder:
      The first step is a guided self-help programme. If this is not effective, offer group of individual CBT-ED. For children and young people, offer the same treatments recommended for adults. Do not offer medication as the sole treatment.

      Advice for those with eating disorders:
      Encourage people with an eating disorder who are vomiting to avoid brushing teeth immediately after vomiting, rinse with non-acid mouthwash, and avoid highly acidic foods and drinks. Advise against misusing laxatives of diuretics and excessive exercise.

      Additional points:
      Do not offer physical therapy as part of treatment. Consider bone mineral density scans after 1 year of underweight in children and young people, of 2 years in adults. Do not routinely offer oral of transdermal oestrogen therapy to treat low bone mineral density in children of young people with anorexia nervosa. Consider transdermal 17-β-estradiol of bisphosphonates for women with anorexia nervosa.

      Note: These guidelines are taken from NICE guidelines 2017.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 9 - What is the recommended initial treatment for psychotic depression? ...

    Incorrect

    • What is the recommended initial treatment for psychotic depression?

      Your Answer: SSRI plus antipsychotic

      Correct Answer: Tricyclic antidepressant plus antipsychotic

      Explanation:

      The Maudsley Guidelines and NICE guidance both recommend the use of a tricyclic antidepressant in combination with an antipsychotic for the treatment of psychotic depression. This approach is also supported by a systematic review which found that augmentation was superior to using an antidepressant or antipsychotic alone. The review was conducted by Kruizinga in 2021 and published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

      Psychotic Depression

      Psychotic depression is a type of depression that is characterized by the presence of delusions and/of hallucinations in addition to depressive symptoms. This condition is often accompanied by severe anhedonia, loss of interest, and psychomotor retardation. People with psychotic depression are tormented by hallucinations and delusions with typical themes of worthlessness, guilt, disease, of impending disaster. This condition affects approximately 14.7-18.5% of depressed patients and is estimated to affect around 0.4% of community adult samples, with a higher prevalence in the elderly community at around 1.4-3.0%. People with psychotic depression are at a higher risk of attempting and completing suicide than those with non-psychotic depression.

      Diagnosis

      Psychotic depression is currently classified as a subtype of depression in both the ICD-11 and the DSM-5. The main difference between the two is that in the ICD-11, the depressive episode must be moderate of severe to qualify for a diagnosis of depressive episode with psychotic symptoms, whereas in the DSM-5, the diagnosis can be applied to any severity of depressive illness.

      Treatment

      The recommended treatment for psychotic depression is tricyclics as first-line treatment, with antipsychotic augmentation. Second-line treatment includes SSRI/SNRI. Augmentation of antidepressant with olanzapine or quetiapine is recommended. The optimum dose and duration of antipsychotic augmentation are unknown. If one treatment is to be stopped during the maintenance phase, then this should be the antipsychotic. ECT should be considered where a rapid response is required of where other treatments have failed. According to NICE (ng222), combination treatment with antidepressant medication and antipsychotic medication (such as olanzapine or quetiapine) should be considered for people with depression with psychotic symptoms. If a person with depression with psychotic symptoms does not wish to take antipsychotic medication in addition to an antidepressant, then treat with an antidepressant alone.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 10 - A young adult with schizophrenia, started on clozapine, shows only partial improvement and...

    Incorrect

    • A young adult with schizophrenia, started on clozapine, shows only partial improvement and continues to experience symptoms. What would be the most suitable course of action?

      Your Answer: Augment with pimozide

      Correct Answer: Augment with sodium valproate

      Explanation:

      Out of the options provided, only sodium valproate is a recognized method for augmentation.

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 11 - A 75-year-old woman presents with an episode of cognitive impairment. Two days earlier...

    Correct

    • A 75-year-old woman presents with an episode of cognitive impairment. Two days earlier she became disoriented and her daughter helped her back to her room where she apparently rested for a while. She then wandered around the house confused, but remained alert and able to communicate with her daughter, though continuing to ask similar questions repeatedly. After four hours, she suddenly returned to her normal state and had no memory of the events. What is the probable diagnosis?

      Your Answer: Transient global amnesia

      Explanation:

      Transient global amnesia is a condition that is characterized by a temporary lack of blood flow to both hippocampi, typically occurring in individuals over the age of 50. Although rare, it is a temporary condition that lasts for less than 24 hours, during which the affected individual retains their personal identity and normal cognitive abilities.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 12 - Which receptors have been linked to excessive salivation caused by clozapine? ...

    Incorrect

    • Which receptors have been linked to excessive salivation caused by clozapine?

      Your Answer: Histaminergic and adrenergic

      Correct Answer: Muscarinic and adrenergic

      Explanation:

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 13 - What is the most appropriate course of action for a patient with bipolar...

    Correct

    • What is the most appropriate course of action for a patient with bipolar I disorder who has been stable on lithium for many years but has experienced five hypomanic episodes in the past year and is currently presenting with a hypomanic episode?

      Your Answer: Continue the lithium and add olanzapine

      Explanation:

      Based on the case, it appears that the patient is experiencing bipolar I with rapid cycling. According to NICE guidelines, there is no specific treatment recommended for rapid cycling. However, one possible approach would be to add an antipsychotic medication to the patient’s current lithium treatment. Alternatively, the Maudsley Guidelines suggest that combining different mood stabilizers, such as lithium and valproate, may be considered as an alternative treatment option.

      Bipolar Disorder: Diagnosis and Management

      Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania and episodes of depressed mood. The peak age of onset is 15-19 years, and the lifetime prevalence of bipolar I disorders is estimated to be around 2.1%. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based on the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes, which are characterized by elevated of expansive mood, rapid speech, and increased activity of energy. Psychotic symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations, may also be present.

      Bipolar depression differs from unipolar depression in several ways, including more rapid onset, more frequent episodes, and shorter duration. Rapid cycling is a qualifier that can be applied to bipolar I of bipolar II disorder and is defined as the presence of at least four mood episodes in the previous 12 months that meet the criteria for a manic, hypomanic, of major depressive episode.

      The management of bipolar disorder involves acute and long-term interventions. Acute management of mania or hypomania may involve stopping antidepressants and offering antipsychotics of mood stabilizers. Long-term management may involve psychological interventions and pharmacological treatments such as lithium, valproate, of olanzapine.

      It is important to note that valproate should not be offered to women of girls of childbearing potential for long-term bipolar disorder unless other options are ineffective of not tolerated and a pregnancy prevention program is in place. Aripiprazole is recommended as an option for treating moderate to severe manic episodes in adolescents with bipolar I disorder.

      Overall, the diagnosis and management of bipolar disorder require a comprehensive approach that takes into account the individual’s symptoms, history, and preferences.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 14 - Which group had the highest incidence rates for psychosis according to the AESOP...

    Incorrect

    • Which group had the highest incidence rates for psychosis according to the AESOP study?

      Your Answer: Black African

      Correct Answer: African-Caribbean

      Explanation:

      The AESOP study is a first-presentation study of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders that identified all people presenting to services with psychotic symptoms in well-defined catchment areas in South London, Nottingham and Bristol. The study aimed to elucidate the overall rates of psychotic disorder in the 3 centres, confirm and extend previous findings of raised rates of psychosis in certain migrant groups in the UK, and explore in detail the biological and social risk factors in these populations and their possible interactions. The study found that the incidence of all psychoses was higher in African-Caribbean and Black African populations, particularly in schizophrenia and manic psychosis. These groups were also more likely to be compulsorily admitted to hospital and come to the attention of mental health services via police of other criminal justice agencies, and less likely to come via the GP.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 15 - The patient, a 23-year-old male, visited his GP two weeks after being involved...

    Correct

    • The patient, a 23-year-old male, visited his GP two weeks after being involved in a road traffic accident. He reported feeling more anxious than usual, experiencing lethargy, and having a headache. Following the accident, he had a CT scan of his brain, which showed no abnormalities. However, six months later, his symptoms had disappeared. What was the likely cause of his initial symptoms?

      Your Answer: Post-concussion syndrome

      Explanation:

      Post-traumatic stress disorder typically has a delayed onset of symptoms and tends to persist for an extended period of time.

      Post-Concussion Syndrome

      Post-concussion syndrome can occur even after a minor head injury. This condition is characterized by several symptoms, including headache, fatigue, anxiety/depression, and dizziness. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, as they can significantly impact your daily life. With proper treatment and management, many individuals with post-concussion syndrome can recover and return to their normal activities.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 16 - If a woman with a history of mild depression comes to the clinic...

    Correct

    • If a woman with a history of mild depression comes to the clinic and reports that she is pregnant, and has been in remission for 5 months after taking sertraline 50mg, what would you suggest?

      Your Answer: Withdraw the sertraline and monitor

      Explanation:

      Although sertraline can be used to treat depression during pregnancy, it is important to note that no psychotropic medication is completely safe. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid medication if possible and carefully consider the risk versus benefit. In cases of mild depression, it may be reasonable to explore non-medication options.

      Paroxetine Use During Pregnancy: Is it Safe?

      Prescribing medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding is challenging due to the potential risks to the fetus of baby. No psychotropic medication has a UK marketing authorization specifically for pregnant of breastfeeding women. Women are encouraged to breastfeed unless they are taking carbamazepine, clozapine, of lithium. The risk of spontaneous major malformation is 2-3%, with drugs accounting for approximately 5% of all abnormalities. Valproate and carbamazepine are associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects, and lithium is associated with cardiac malformations. Benzodiazepines are associated with oral clefts and floppy baby syndrome. Antidepressants have been linked to preterm delivery and congenital malformation, but most findings have been inconsistent. TCAs have been used widely without apparent detriment to the fetus, but their use in the third trimester is known to produce neonatal withdrawal effects. Sertraline appears to result in the least placental exposure among SSRIs. MAOIs should be avoided in pregnancy due to a suspected increased risk of congenital malformations and hypertensive crisis. If a pregnant woman is stable on an antipsychotic and likely to relapse without medication, she should continue the antipsychotic. Depot antipsychotics should not be offered to pregnant of breastfeeding women unless they have a history of non-adherence with oral medication. The Maudsley Guidelines suggest specific drugs for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. NICE CG192 recommends high-intensity psychological interventions for moderate to severe depression and anxiety disorders. Antipsychotics are recommended for pregnant women with mania of psychosis who are not taking psychotropic medication. Promethazine is recommended for insomnia.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 17 - What approach is recommended by NICE guidelines for treating depression that does not...

    Correct

    • What approach is recommended by NICE guidelines for treating depression that does not respond to treatment?

      Your Answer: Augment with lithium

      Explanation:

      The NICE guidelines acknowledge that augmentation with lithium is a viable choice for managing depression that is resistant to treatment.

      Depression Treatment Guidelines by NICE

      The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines for the treatment of depression. The following are some general recommendations:

      – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are preferred when prescribing antidepressants.
      – Antidepressants are not the first-line treatment for mild depression.
      – After remission, continue antidepressant treatment for at least six months.
      – Continue treatment for at least two years if at high risk of relapse of have a history of severe or prolonged episodes of inadequate response.
      – Use a stepped care approach to depression treatment, starting at the appropriate level based on the severity of depression.

      The stepped care approach involves the following steps:

      – Step 1: Assessment, support, psychoeducation, active monitoring, and referral for further assessment and interventions.
      – Step 2: Low-intensity psychosocial interventions, psychological interventions, medication, and referral for further assessment and interventions.
      – Step 3: Medication, high-intensity psychological interventions, combined treatments, collaborative care, and referral for further assessment and interventions.
      – Step 4: Medication, high-intensity psychological interventions, electroconvulsive therapy, crisis service, combined treatments, multiprofessional and inpatient care.

      Individual guided self-help programs based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles should be supported by a trained practitioner and last 9 to 12 weeks. Physical activity programs should consist of three sessions per week of moderate duration over 10 to 14 weeks.

      NICE advises against using antidepressants routinely to treat persistent subthreshold depressive symptoms of mild depression. However, they may be considered for people with a past history of moderate or severe depression, initial presentation of subthreshold depressive symptoms that have been present for a long period, of subthreshold depressive symptoms of mild depression that persist after other interventions.

      NICE recommends a combination of antidepressant medication and a high-intensity psychological intervention (CBT of interpersonal therapy) for people with moderate of severe depression. Augmentation of antidepressants with lithium, antipsychotics, of other antidepressants may be appropriate, but benzodiazepines, buspirone, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, of valproate should not be routinely used.

      When considering different antidepressants, venlafaxine is associated with a greater risk of death from overdose compared to other equally effective antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) except for lofepramine are associated with the greatest risk in overdose. Higher doses of venlafaxine may exacerbate cardiac arrhythmias, and venlafaxine and duloxetine may exacerbate hypertension. TCAs may cause postural hypotension and arrhythmias, and mianserin requires hematological monitoring in elderly people.

      The review frequency depends on the age and suicide risk of the patient. If the patient is over 30 and has no suicide risk, see them after two weeks and then at intervals of 2-4 weeks for the first three months. If the patient is under 30 and has a suicide risk, see them after one week.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 18 - What is the accurate diagnosis and classification of bipolar disorder as per the...

    Correct

    • What is the accurate diagnosis and classification of bipolar disorder as per the ICD-11?

      Your Answer: A diagnosis of bipolar II cannot be applied if there has ever been a manic episode regardless of the current presentation

      Explanation:

      To receive a diagnosis of bipolar II, it is necessary to never have experienced a manic episode. Rapid cycling can be present in both bipolar I and II. Most individuals who experience mania will have recurring mood episodes. A diagnosis of bipolar I only requires the presence of mania, not depression. Cyclothymia is characterized by mood instability lasting for at least two years.

      Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

      Bipolar and related disorders are mood disorders characterized by manic, mixed, of hypomanic episodes alternating with depressive episodes. The lifetime risk of suicide in individuals with bipolar disorder is estimated to be at least 15 times that of the general population. Under the ICD-11, there are three subtypes of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic disorder.

      Bipolar I disorder is diagnosed when an individual has a history of at least one manic of mixed episode. The typical course of the disorder is characterized by recurrent depressive and manic of mixed episodes. Onset of the first mood episode most often occurs during the late teen years, but onset of bipolar type I can occur at any time through the life cycle. The lifetime prevalence of bipolar I disorder is estimated to be around 2.1%.

      Bipolar II disorder is diagnosed when an individual has a history of at least one hypomanic episode and at least one depressive episode. The typical course of the disorder is characterized by recurrent depressive and hypomanic episodes. Onset of bipolar type II most often occurs during the mid-twenties. The number of lifetime episodes tends to be higher for bipolar II disorder than for major depressive disorder of bipolar I disorder.

      Cyclothymic disorder is diagnosed when an individual experiences mood instability over an extended period of time characterized by numerous hypomanic and depressive periods. The symptoms are present for more days than not, and there is no history of manic or mixed episodes. The course of cyclothymic disorder is often gradual and persistent, and onset commonly occurs during adolescence of early adulthood.

      Rapid cycling is not a subtype of bipolar disorder but instead is a qualifier. It is defined as the presence of at least four mood episodes in the previous 12 months that meet the criteria for a manic, hypomanic, of major depressive episode. Rapid cycling is associated with an increased risk of suicide and tends to be precipitated by stressors such as life events, alcohol abuse, use of antidepressants, and medical disorders.

      Overall, the diagnosis of bipolar disorder requires careful evaluation of an individual’s symptoms and history. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 19 - In which situations might higher doses of clozapine be necessary? ...

    Correct

    • In which situations might higher doses of clozapine be necessary?

      Your Answer: Smokers

      Explanation:

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 20 - What is the most effective treatment for PTSD in adolescents? ...

    Correct

    • What is the most effective treatment for PTSD in adolescents?

      Your Answer: Trauma focussed CBT

      Explanation:

      According to NICE guidelines, the recommended initial treatment for PTSD is trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.

      Stress disorders, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), are emotional reactions to traumatic events. The diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an extremely threatening of horrific event, followed by the development of a characteristic syndrome lasting for at least several weeks, consisting of re-experiencing the traumatic event, deliberate avoidance of reminders likely to produce re-experiencing, and persistent perceptions of heightened current threat. Additional clinical features may include general dysphoria, dissociative symptoms, somatic complaints, suicidal ideation and behaviour, social withdrawal, excessive alcohol of drug use, anxiety symptoms, and obsessions of compulsions. The emotional experience of individuals with PTSD commonly includes anger, shame, sadness, humiliation, of guilt. The onset of PTSD symptoms can occur at any time during the lifespan following exposure to a traumatic event, and the symptoms and course of PTSD can vary significantly over time and individuals. Key differentials include acute stress reaction, adjustment disorder, and complex PTSD. Management of PTSD includes trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and supported trauma-focused computerized CBT interventions. Drug treatments, including benzodiazepines, are not recommended for the prevention of treatment of PTSD in adults, but venlafaxine of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may be considered for adults with a diagnosis of PTSD if the person has a preference for drug treatment. Antipsychotics such as risperidone may be considered in addition if disabling symptoms and behaviors are present and have not responded to other treatments. Psychological debriefing is not recommended for the prevention of treatment of PTSD. For children and young people, individual trauma-focused CBT interventions of EMDR may be considered, but drug treatments are not recommended.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 21 - Among the given drugs, which one has the highest likelihood of causing myocarditis?...

    Incorrect

    • Among the given drugs, which one has the highest likelihood of causing myocarditis?

      Your Answer: Haloperidol

      Correct Answer: Clozapine

      Explanation:

      Chest pain and palpitations are common symptoms of myocarditis, which can be identified through ECG changes such as widespread T wave inversion. Although it may resemble a heart attack, there is no obstruction in the coronary arteries. Although other antipsychotics have been linked to myocarditis, clozapine has the most significant correlation.

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 22 - You are asked to assess a teenage girl with borderline personality disorder who...

    Correct

    • You are asked to assess a teenage girl with borderline personality disorder who is admitted to one of the general adolescent wards. She discloses to you that she ingested 200 paracetamol tablets an hour ago. However, the nurse in charge expresses skepticism about the patient's account, stating that she frequently fabricates stories. What is the most suitable course of action for managing this situation?

      Your Answer: Wait a further 3 hours and take paracetamol levels

      Explanation:

      In cases of paracetamol overdose, it is recommended to measure the levels of the drug in the patient’s system 4 hours after the incident, if possible. Treatment should be based on the results of this test. However, in this particular case, since the patient has sought medical attention early, there is sufficient time to obtain the test results before initiating treatment. Blind treatment is only considered when the levels cannot be measured within 8 hours, of when the patient has ingested more than 150 mg/kg of paracetamol, of when the overdose was taken in a staggered manner of the timing is uncertain, as the test results may not be reliable in such cases.

      Self-Harm and its Management

      Self-harm refers to intentional acts of self-poisoning of self-injury. It is prevalent among younger people, with an estimated 10% of girls and 3% of boys aged 15-16 years having self-harmed in the previous year. Risk factors for non-fatal repetition of self-harm include previous self-harm, personality disorder, hopelessness, history of psychiatric treatment, schizophrenia, alcohol abuse/dependence, and drug abuse/dependence. Suicide following an act of self-harm is more likely in those with previous episodes of self-harm, suicidal intent, poor physical health, and male gender.

      Risk assessment tools are not recommended for predicting future suicide of repetition of self-harm. The recommended interventions for self-harm include 4-10 sessions of CBT specifically structured for people who self-harm and considering DBT for adolescents with significant emotional dysregulation. Drug treatment as a specific intervention to reduce self-harm should not be offered.

      In the management of ingestion, activated charcoal can help if used early, while emetics and cathartics should not be used. Gastric lavage should generally not be used unless recommended by TOXBASE. Paracetamol is involved in 30-40% of acute presentations with poisoning. Intravenous acetylcysteine is the treatment of choice, and pseudo-allergic reactions are relatively common. Naloxone is used as an antidote for opioid overdose, while flumazenil can help reduce the need for admission to intensive care in benzodiazepine overdose.

      For superficial uncomplicated skin lacerations of 5 cm of less in length, tissue adhesive of skin closure strips could be used as a first-line treatment option. All children who self-harm should be admitted for an overnight stay at a pediatric ward.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 23 - What is the truth about the utilization of psychiatric medications in individuals with...

    Incorrect

    • What is the truth about the utilization of psychiatric medications in individuals with epilepsy?

      Your Answer: MAOIs are considered high risk in people with epilepsy who become depressed

      Correct Answer: Methylphenidate is considered low risk for people with epilepsy who have ADHD

      Explanation:

      Psychotropics and Seizure Threshold in People with Epilepsy

      People with epilepsy are at an increased risk for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and suicide. It is important to note that the link between epilepsy and mental illness is bidirectional, as patients with mental health conditions also have an increased risk of developing new-onset epilepsy. Psychotropic drugs are often necessary for people with epilepsy, but they can reduce the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizures. The following tables provide guidance on the seizure risk associated with different classes of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and ADHD medications. It is important to use caution and carefully consider the risks and benefits of these medications when treating people with epilepsy.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 24 - A colleague in primary care contacts you for advice regarding a case of...

    Correct

    • A colleague in primary care contacts you for advice regarding a case of mild panic disorder in a 35-year-old woman. Medical causes have been ruled out.

      According to NICE guidelines, what would be the most appropriate course of action in this case?

      Your Answer: Individual self-help

      Explanation:

      Understanding Panic Disorder: Key Facts, Diagnosis, and Treatment Recommendations

      Panic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden surges of intense fear of discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. Females are more commonly affected than males, and the disorder typically onsets during the early 20s. Panic attacks are followed by persistent concern of worry about their recurrence of negative significance, of behaviors intended to avoid their recurrence. The symptoms result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, of other important areas of functioning.

      To diagnose panic disorder, the individual must experience recurrent panic attacks that are not restricted to particular stimuli of situations and are unexpected. The panic attacks are followed by persistent concern of worry about their recurrence of negative significance, of behaviors intended to avoid their recurrence. The symptoms are not a manifestation of another medical condition of substance use, and they result in significant impairment in functioning.

      Panic disorder is differentiated from normal fear reactions by the frequent recurrence of panic attacks, persistent worry of concern about the panic attacks of their meaning, and associated significant impairment in functioning. Treatment recommendations vary based on the severity of the disorder, with mild to moderate cases recommended for individual self-help and moderate to severe cases recommended for cognitive-behavioral therapy of antidepressant medication. The classes of antidepressants that have an evidence base for effectiveness are SSRIs, SNRIs, and TCAs. Benzodiazepines are not recommended for the treatment of panic disorder due to their association with a less favorable long-term outcome. Sedating antihistamines of antipsychotics should also not be prescribed for the treatment of panic disorder.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 25 - The patient inquires about the likelihood of developing neutropenia while taking clozapine. What...

    Incorrect

    • The patient inquires about the likelihood of developing neutropenia while taking clozapine. What is the estimated risk of neutropenia associated with the use of clozapine?

      Your Answer: 1%

      Correct Answer: 3%

      Explanation:

      Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic drug used in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). It was reintroduced in the 1990s with mandatory blood monitoring due to the risk of agranulocyte

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 26 - Which of the following biochemical/haematological changes is associated with clozapine? ...

    Correct

    • Which of the following biochemical/haematological changes is associated with clozapine?

      Your Answer: Raised ALP

      Explanation:

      Biochemical Changes Associated with Psychotropic Drugs

      Psychotropic drugs can have incidental biochemical of haematological effects that need to be identified and monitored. The evidence for many of these changes is limited to case reports of information supplied by manufacturers. The Maudsley Guidelines 14th Edition summarises the important changes to be aware of.

      One important parameter to monitor is ALT, a liver enzyme. Agents that can raise ALT levels include clozapine, haloperidol, olanzapine, quetiapine, chlorpromazine, mirtazapine, moclobemide, SSRIs, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, and valproate. On the other hand, vigabatrin can lower ALT levels.

      Another liver enzyme to monitor is ALP. Haloperidol, clozapine, olanzapine, duloxetine, sertraline, and carbamazepine can raise ALP levels, while buprenorphine and zolpidem (rarely) can lower them.

      AST levels are often associated with ALT levels. Trifluoperazine and vigabatrin can raise AST levels, while agents that raise ALT levels can also raise AST levels.

      TSH levels, which are associated with thyroid function, can be affected by aripiprazole, carbamazepine, lithium, quetiapine, rivastigmine, sertraline, and valproate (slightly). Moclobemide can lower TSH levels.

      Thyroxine levels can be affected by dexamphetamine, moclobemide, lithium (which can raise of lower levels), aripiprazole (rarely), and quetiapine (rarely).

      Overall, it is important to monitor these biochemical changes when prescribing psychotropic drugs to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 27 - What is the most accurate approximation of the occurrence rate of puerperal psychosis?...

    Incorrect

    • What is the most accurate approximation of the occurrence rate of puerperal psychosis?

      Your Answer: 2 in 100

      Correct Answer: 2 in 1000

      Explanation:

      Puerperal Psychosis: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Treatment

      Postpartum psychosis is a subtype of bipolar disorder with an incidence of 1-2 in 1000 pregnancies. It typically occurs rapidly between day 2 and day 14 following delivery, with almost all cases occurring within 8 weeks of delivery. Risk factors for puerperal psychosis include a past history of puerperal psychosis, pre-existing psychotic illness (especially affective psychosis) requiring hospital admission, and a family history of affective psychosis in first of second degree relatives. However, factors such as twin pregnancy, breastfeeding, single parenthood, and stillbirth have not been shown to be associated with an increased risk. Treatment for puerperal psychosis is similar to that for psychosis in general, but special consideration must be given to potential issues if the mother is breastfeeding.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 28 - Which symptom is not commonly linked to PTSD? ...

    Correct

    • Which symptom is not commonly linked to PTSD?

      Your Answer: Hallucinations

      Explanation:

      Common signs of PTSD may include:

      Stress disorders, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), are emotional reactions to traumatic events. The diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an extremely threatening of horrific event, followed by the development of a characteristic syndrome lasting for at least several weeks, consisting of re-experiencing the traumatic event, deliberate avoidance of reminders likely to produce re-experiencing, and persistent perceptions of heightened current threat. Additional clinical features may include general dysphoria, dissociative symptoms, somatic complaints, suicidal ideation and behaviour, social withdrawal, excessive alcohol of drug use, anxiety symptoms, and obsessions of compulsions. The emotional experience of individuals with PTSD commonly includes anger, shame, sadness, humiliation, of guilt. The onset of PTSD symptoms can occur at any time during the lifespan following exposure to a traumatic event, and the symptoms and course of PTSD can vary significantly over time and individuals. Key differentials include acute stress reaction, adjustment disorder, and complex PTSD. Management of PTSD includes trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and supported trauma-focused computerized CBT interventions. Drug treatments, including benzodiazepines, are not recommended for the prevention of treatment of PTSD in adults, but venlafaxine of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may be considered for adults with a diagnosis of PTSD if the person has a preference for drug treatment. Antipsychotics such as risperidone may be considered in addition if disabling symptoms and behaviors are present and have not responded to other treatments. Psychological debriefing is not recommended for the prevention of treatment of PTSD. For children and young people, individual trauma-focused CBT interventions of EMDR may be considered, but drug treatments are not recommended.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
      4
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  • Question 29 - What is the herbal remedy that is highly effective for anxiety but not...

    Correct

    • What is the herbal remedy that is highly effective for anxiety but not recommended due to its risk of hepatotoxicity?

      Your Answer: Piper methysticum

      Explanation:

      Herbal Remedies for Depression and Anxiety

      Depression can be treated with Hypericum perforatum (St John’s Wort), which has been found to be more effective than placebo and as effective as standard antidepressants. However, its use is not advised due to uncertainty about appropriate doses, variation in preparations, and potential interactions with other drugs. St John’s Wort can cause serotonin syndrome and decrease levels of drugs such as warfarin and ciclosporin. The effectiveness of the combined oral contraceptive pill may also be reduced.

      Anxiety can be reduced with Piper methysticum (kava), but it cannot be recommended for clinical use due to its association with hepatotoxicity.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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  • Question 30 - What scales are suitable for assessing drug-induced Parkinsonism? ...

    Correct

    • What scales are suitable for assessing drug-induced Parkinsonism?

      Your Answer: Simpson-Angus scale

      Explanation:

      The Simpson-Angus scale was created to evaluate parkinsonism caused by medication, utilizing consistent assessments for stiffness, shaking, and excessive saliva production. The scale solely relies on observable symptoms.

      In psychiatry, various questionnaires and interviews are used to assess different conditions and areas. It is important for candidates to know whether certain assessment tools are self-rated of require clinical assistance. The table provided by the college lists some of the commonly used assessment tools and indicates whether they are self-rated of clinician-rated. For example, the HAMD and MADRS are clinician-rated scales used to assess the severity of depression, while the GDS is a self-rated scale used to screen for depression in the elderly. The YMRS is a clinician-rated scale used to assess the severity of mania in patients with bipolar disorder, while the Y-BOCS is used to measure both the severity of OCD and the response to treatment. The GAF provides a single measure of global functioning, while the CGI requires the clinician to rate the severity of the patient’s illness at the time of assessment. The CAMDEX is a tool developed to assist in the early diagnosis and measurement of dementia in the elderly.

    • This question is part of the following fields:

      • General Adult Psychiatry
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY

General Adult Psychiatry (19/30) 63%
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