MDS PREP
What is the primary function of the aortic valve?
(1) To prevent backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole
(2) To prevent backflow of blood from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle during diastole
(3) To prevent backflow of blood from the pulmonary vein into the left atrium during systole
(4) To prevent backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole
The aortic valve is located between the left ventricle and the aorta and is responsible for preventing the backflow of blood into the left ventricle during systole, ensuring that blood is efficiently pumped out of the heart into the systemic circulation.
A patient presents with symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The physician suspects the presence of emphysema.
Which of the following conditions is likely to cause pulsus paradoxus in this patient?
(1) Pneumothorax
(2) Pleural effusion
(3) Emphysema/Asthma
(4) Cor pulmonale
Pulsus paradoxus is an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, which can occur in patients with airflow obstruction conditions such as emphysema and asthma. These conditions can lead to increased intrathoracic pressure swings during respiration, which affects the cardiac output and arterial pulse amplitude.
A patient is admitted with suspected cholera. What is the most appropriate initial treatment for this condition?
(1) Intravenous antibiotics
(2) Intravenous fluids and electrolytes
(3) Intravenous opioids
(4) Intravenous corticosteroids
The most critical aspect of cholera treatment is aggressive rehydration to replace the large volume of fluid and electrolytes lost through diarrhea. Antibiotics may be administered to reduce the duration of illness and the volume of diarrhea, but rehydration is the immediate priority.
What is the primary cellular defect caused by HIV infection leading to AIDS?
(1) Depletion of CD8 cells
(2) Depletion of CD4 cells
(3) Overproduction of CD8 cells
(4) Overproduction of CD4 cells
The primary cellular defect caused by HIV infection is the depletion of CD4+ T-helper cells, which are essential for a properly functioning immune system. This leads to a compromised immune system that is susceptible to opportunistic infections.
In a patient with suspected hyperparathyroidism, which of the following is the most sensitive diagnostic test for the disease?
(1) Serum calcium
(2) Serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH)
(3) Urinary calcium-to-creatinine ratio
(4) Serum phosphorus
The most sensitive diagnostic test for hyperparathyroidism is the measurement of serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels. Elevated iPTH levels in the context of hypercalcemia are indicative of primary hyperparathyroidism. However, serum calcium levels are also typically high in this condition and are commonly measured in the initial workup.
What is the primary mode of diagnosis for Huntington's disease?
1) Brain MRI
2) Genetic testing
3) Clinical examination and family history
4) Cerebral spinal fluid analysis
The primary mode of diagnosis for Huntington's disease is genetic testing. It involves identifying the expansion of a trinucleotide repeat (CAG) in the HTT gene on chromosome 4.
What is the primary action of acetaminophen?
1) Anti-inflammatory
2) Analgesic and antipyretic
3) Muscle relaxant
4) Antihypertensive
Acetaminophen is primarily known for its analgesic and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects. It is a common component in many over-the-counter pain relief medications.
What are the two main clinical hallmarks of Huntington's disease?
(1) Parkinsonism and tremor
(2) Chorea and cognitive impairment
(3) Ataxia and peripheral neuropathy
(4) Dystonia and rigidity
Huntington's disease is characterized by two main clinical features: chorea (involuntary, irregular, and sudden jerky movements) and behavioral disturbances. These symptoms may occur alone or in combination, with the choreic movement disorder typically becoming more pronounced over time.