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elderly patient

Practice targeted AMC-style multiple-choice questions on elderly patient.

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A 60-year-old man presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe chest pain radiating to his back. He describes the pain as tearing in nature. His blood pressure is 180/100 mmHg in the right arm and 160/90 mmHg in the left arm. On examination, there is a new diastolic murmur. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Echocardiogram
B. D-dimer test
C. CT angiography of the chest
D. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
E. Chest X-ray
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with abdominal distension, obstipation, and vomiting. He has a history of prior abdominal surgery. An upright abdominal X-ray is performed. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Colonoscopy
B. Surgical consultation
C. Barium enema
D. Stool softeners
E. Oral antibiotics
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A 68-year-old man with a 40 pack-year smoking history presents with a 3-month history of persistent cough, occasional haemoptysis, and a 5 kg weight loss. A chest X-ray shows a left upper lobe opacity. A subsequent CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis confirms a 4 cm mass in the left upper lobe and identifies several enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes (largest 1.5 cm). There is no clear evidence of distant metastatic disease on the CT scan. He has no neurological symptoms or bone pain. Pulmonary function tests are pending. What is the most appropriate next investigation for staging this patient's non-small cell lung cancer?

A. Brain MRI
B. Bone scan
C. Mediastinoscopy
D. PET-CT scan
E. Repeat CT scan in 3 months
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents to her GP with a 6-month history of increasing fatigue, generalised bone aches, and constipation. She has no significant past medical history and takes no regular medications. Physical examination is unremarkable. Initial laboratory investigations reveal a corrected serum calcium level of 3.1 mmol/L (reference range: 2.1-2.6 mmol/L) and an elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) level of 180 pg/mL (reference range: 10-65 pg/mL). A 24-hour urine calcium excretion is 12 mmol/day (reference range: 2.5-7.5 mmol/day). She is referred for further imaging, the results of which are shown. Based on the available information, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Order genetic testing for MEN syndromes
B. Surgical parathyroidectomy
C. Repeat parathyroid localisation imaging
D. Initiate medical therapy with cinacalcet
E. Perform a bone mineral density scan
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of worsening pain in his right groin. He has a known right inguinal hernia that has been present for several years and was previously reducible, but he has been unable to push it back in today. The pain is now constant and severe, rated 8/10. He denies fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. His vital signs are: temperature 37.2°C, heart rate 96 bpm, blood pressure 140/90 mmHg, respiratory rate 18 breaths/min, oxygen saturation 97% on room air. On examination, there is a firm, exquisitely tender, non-reducible mass in the right inguinal region. The overlying skin appears slightly erythematous. Bowel sounds are present and normal. An urgent CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, and a representative axial image is shown. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the MOST appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Administer broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics and observe for improvement.
B. Urgent surgical consultation for operative repair.
C. Order an urgent ultrasound of the groin to assess for vascular flow.
D. Arrange for elective outpatient surgical repair within the next week.
E. Attempt manual reduction of the hernia under sedation.
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 75-year-old male presents with worsening dysphagia. An X-ray is performed (shown). What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Esophageal manometry
B. 24-hour pH monitoring
C. Upper endoscopy
D. CT chest
E. Barium swallow
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 72-year-old woman, status post mastectomy, presents with a lesion. What is the MOST appropriate initial diagnostic test?

A. Patch testing
B. Skin biopsy
C. Wood's lamp examination
D. KOH examination
E. Fungal culture
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Elective abdominal ultrasonography of a 64 year old woman with past colicky pain but no current pain. It shows a mildly dilated common bile duct with what appears to be a gallstone (black arrow). The green and blue dots are blood flow, since the exam is done as a Doppler ultrasound to distinguish the bile duct from blood vessels.
Image by Mikael Häggström CC0 1.0 · Source

A 64-year-old woman presents for follow-up after experiencing intermittent episodes of right upper quadrant colicky pain over the past year, which have since resolved. She denies any current pain, fever, jaundice, or changes in bowel habits. Physical examination is unremarkable, and recent liver function tests are within normal limits. An elective abdominal ultrasound was performed, yielding the image shown. Considering the clinical context and the findings demonstrated, what is the most appropriate next step in her management?

A. Discharge with advice to return if symptoms recur
B. ERCP for stone extraction
C. Initiate ursodeoxycholic acid therapy
D. MRCP to further delineate the biliary anatomy
E. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy
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A contrast enhanced CT scan demonstrating an abdominal aortic aneurysm of 4.8 * 3.8 cm
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old man with a history of smoking, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia presents for investigation of intermittent flank pain. Physical examination is unremarkable. Routine blood tests are normal. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed. Considering the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Surveillance with abdominal ultrasound in 12 months
B. Urgent referral for surgical assessment and repair planning
C. Referral for immediate endovascular aneurysm repair
D. No specific follow-up imaging required, focus on risk factor modification
E. Repeat CT scan of the abdomen in 3 months
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A 68-year-old man presents to the emergency department with 90 minutes of crushing chest pain radiating to his left arm. He is diaphoretic and anxious. ECG shows 3mm ST elevation in leads V2-V4. His blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg, heart rate 75 bpm. What is the most appropriate immediate next step in management?

A. Arrange urgent coronary CT angiography
B. Administer dual antiplatelet therapy and heparin
C. Prepare for intravenous fibrinolysis
D. Activate the cardiac catheterisation laboratory for primary PCI
E. Obtain serial cardiac biomarkers
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with fatigue, weight loss, and vague abdominal discomfort. His past medical history includes a recent diagnosis of gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC). The provided image was obtained as part of his staging workup. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Referral to medical oncology for systemic chemotherapy
B. Surgical resection of the affected liver segments
C. Initiation of palliative care and symptom management
D. Administration of intravenous antibiotics for presumed liver abscesses
E. Percutaneous ethanol ablation of the largest lesion
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A 65-year-old man with a 20-year history of poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia presents with a 6-month history of burning pain in his feet, worse at night, often waking him from sleep. He also reports feeling lightheaded when standing up quickly and has noticed difficulty initiating urination and a weak stream. On examination, his blood pressure is 135/85 mmHg supine and 115/70 mmHg after standing for 3 minutes. Neurological examination reveals decreased sensation to pinprick and light touch in a stocking distribution up to the mid-calf bilaterally. Vibration sense is reduced at the ankles. Ankle reflexes are absent. The remainder of the examination is unremarkable. His most recent HbA1c is 8.9%. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of his constellation of symptoms?

A. Diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy with autonomic involvement
B. Charcot joint arthropathy
C. Peripheral arterial disease
D. Vitamin B12 deficiency
E. Lumbar spinal stenosis
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A 70-year-old woman with a history of diabetes presents with fever, cough, and weight loss. A chest X-ray shows a cavitary lesion in the right upper lobe. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Sarcoidosis
B. Lung cancer
C. Tuberculosis
D. Lung abscess
E. Pneumocystis pneumonia
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Ileitis terminalis bei langjaehrigem Morbus Crohn 63W - CT und MRT - 001
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old woman with a 20-year history of Crohn's disease presents with a one-month history of worsening abdominal pain, bloating, and occasional vomiting, associated with a 3kg weight loss. She is currently managed with mesalazine and azathioprine. Her vital signs are stable, and physical examination reveals mild right lower quadrant tenderness. Imaging is performed. Considering the clinical presentation and the provided images, which of the following represents the most appropriate next step in this patient's management?

A. Provide symptomatic relief and arrange follow-up in the outpatient clinic.
B. Surgical consultation for assessment of operative management.
C. Repeat cross-sectional imaging in three months to monitor disease progression.
D. Perform a colonoscopy to assess disease activity and extent.
E. Initiate a course of oral corticosteroids and optimise immunosuppression.
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A 72-year-old retired builder with a 50 pack-year smoking history presents with a 3-month history of worsening cough, occasional streaks of blood in sputum, and unintentional weight loss of 6 kg. He reports mild dyspnoea on exertion, able to climb one flight of stairs before needing to rest. On examination, he is thin but alert, with an ECOG performance status of 1. Chest auscultation reveals decreased breath sounds over the right upper zone. A chest X-ray shows a 4.5 cm spiculated mass in the right upper lobe. There is no obvious pleural effusion or mediastinal widening. Full blood count, electrolytes, liver function tests, and renal function tests are within normal limits, except for a haemoglobin of 115 g/L. Spirometry shows FEV1 65% predicted, FVC 80% predicted, FEV1/FVC ratio 0.7.

A. Bronchoscopy with biopsy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) for mediastinal staging.
B. Pulmonary function tests including DLCO.
C. Mediastinoscopy for nodal biopsy.
D. CT-guided core biopsy of the mass.
E. PET-CT scan for whole-body staging.
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A 70-year-old man with a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia presents to the emergency department with sudden onset, severe chest pain radiating to his back. He is diaphoretic and anxious. His blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Esophageal rupture
B. Pulmonary embolism
C. Acute myocardial infarction
D. Pericarditis
E. Aortic dissection
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents with fatigue, bone pain, and constipation. Laboratory tests reveal serum calcium 3.1 mmol/L, PTH 180 pg/mL, and elevated 24-hour urine calcium. Imaging studies are shown. Considering the clinical presentation and investigation findings, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Further imaging with MRI of the neck
B. Surgical parathyroidectomy
C. Long-term observation with serial calcium and PTH measurements
D. Initiation of medical therapy with cinacalcet
E. Commencement of intravenous bisphosphonate therapy
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presents with a persistent rash on her chest wall at the site of a previous mastectomy performed 8 years ago. She denies pain or itching. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Reassurance and observation
B. Topical corticosteroid application
C. Skin biopsy
D. Referral to dermatology for cryotherapy
E. Excisional biopsy with wide margins
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner complaining of fatigue, bone pain, and constipation for the past several months. She denies any significant past medical history. Initial laboratory investigations reveal an elevated serum calcium level of 3.1 mmol/L (reference range: 2.1-2.6 mmol/L) and an elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) level of 180 pg/mL (reference range: 10-65 pg/mL). A 24-hour urine calcium excretion is also elevated. The patient is referred for further imaging, the results of which are shown. Based on the available information, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiate medical management with cinacalcet
B. Prescribe bisphosphonates for bone pain
C. Repeat serum calcium and PTH in 3 months
D. Parathyroidectomy
E. Refer for genetic testing for multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman with osteoporosis and a history of kidney stones presents with a serum calcium of 2.9 mmol/L (2.1-2.6 mmol/L) and PTH of 120 pg/mL (10-65 pg/mL). She denies neck pain or swelling. The provided imaging was obtained. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Cinacalcet to lower PTH levels
B. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation
C. Surgical excision of the identified lesion
D. Bisphosphonate therapy and observation
E. Thyroidectomy
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Post-embolization arteriogram showing coiled aneurysm (indicated by yellow arrows) of the posteriorcerebral artery with a residual aneurysmal sac.
Image by Promod Pillai, Aftab Karim, Anil Nanda CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman with a history of hypertension presents with a severe headache and altered mental status. Aneurysmal coiling was performed. The image shows a post-operative angiogram. 6 hours later, the patient's GCS decreases. What is the MOST likely cause?

A. Hydrocephalus
B. Post-operative delirium
C. Re-rupture of the aneurysm
D. Vasospasm
E. Cerebral salt wasting
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An 82-year-old woman with dementia and COPD presents with increased confusion and mild cough. Temperature 37.8°C, HR 95, RR 24, BP 110/70, SpO2 90% on air. Chest sounds are diminished bilaterally. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Serum procalcitonin
B. Bronchoscopy
C. High-resolution CT chest
D. Chest X-ray
E. Sputum Gram stain and culture
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with dysphagia and weight loss. Gastroscopy and biopsy confirm gastric adenocarcinoma. Staging CT imaging is shown. His ECOG performance status is 1. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided images, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy for this patient?

A. Proceed with total gastrectomy and D2 lymphadenectomy
B. Refer for liver transplantation assessment
C. Plan palliative radiotherapy to the gastric primary
D. Initiate systemic chemotherapy
E. Consider transarterial chemoembolisation for hepatic lesions
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A 70-year-old man with a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus is being treated with an ACE inhibitor. His medications include metformin, gliclazide and perindopril. He presents to the emergency department complaining of lightheadedness and dizziness, particularly when standing up. His blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg, and his heart rate is 70 bpm. His electrolytes show a potassium level of 6.2 mmol/L. Which of the following is the most likely cause of his hyperkalemia?

A. Adrenal insufficiency
B. Gliclazide
C. Perindopril
D. Dehydration
E. Metformin
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Ileitis terminalis bei langjaehrigem Morbus Crohn 63W - CT und MRT - 001
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 63-year-old woman with a 20-year history of Crohn's disease presents with a one-month history of worsening colicky abdominal pain, bloating, and occasional non-bilious vomiting, associated with a 3kg weight loss. She reports reduced stool frequency. She is currently managed with mesalazine and azathioprine. Her vital signs are stable (BP 120/75, HR 82, Temp 36.8), and physical examination reveals mild right lower quadrant tenderness without guarding or rebound. Bowel sounds are hyperactive. Imaging is performed. Considering the clinical presentation, her current therapy, and the findings suggested by the provided images, which of the following represents the most appropriate next step in this patient's management?

A. Performing a colonoscopy with attempted balloon dilation
B. Recommending a high-fibre diet and increased fluid intake
C. Initiating therapy with an anti-TNF agent such as infliximab
D. Increasing the dose of azathioprine and adding oral corticosteroids
E. Referral for surgical consultation regarding potential resection
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CT, ultrasonography, SPECT and scintigraphy of intra-thyroid parathyroid adenoma
Image by Mnahi Bin Saeedan, Ibtisam Musallam Aljohani, Ayman Omar Khushaim, Salwa Qasim Bukhari, Salahudin Tayeb Elnaas CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents with fatigue, bone pain, and constipation. Laboratory investigations reveal serum calcium 3.1 mmol/L, parathyroid hormone 180 pg/mL, and elevated 24-hour urine calcium excretion. Imaging studies are performed for pre-operative localisation, the results of which are shown. Considering the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the images, which surgical approach is MOST likely indicated for definitive management?

A. Targeted parathyroidectomy via hemithyroidectomy
B. Medical management with cinacalcet
C. Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
D. Bilateral neck exploration
E. Observation with regular calcium monitoring
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An 82-year-old man is brought from an aged care facility with a 2-day history of increased confusion and a new cough. He has a history of dementia and hypertension. On examination, his temperature is 38.1°C, pulse 98 bpm, BP 130/80 mmHg, and oxygen saturation 92% on room air. Chest auscultation reveals crackles in the right lower lung field. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Blood cultures
B. Sputum culture
C. ECG
D. Chest X-ray
E. CT scan of the head
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An 80-year-old presents with cough, fever, and new confusion. Vital signs: T 38.5°C, HR 110, BP 100/60, RR 28, SpO2 90% on air. Chest X-ray shows consolidation. What is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Oral antibiotics and outpatient management
B. Chest CT scan
C. Bronchoscopy
D. Sputum culture and sensitivity testing
E. Intravenous antibiotics and hospital admission
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Clinical aspects of mammary Paget's disease occurred on the thoracic wall where simple mastectomy was performed some years before.
Image by Monica Giovannini, Carmelo D'Atri, Quirino Piubello, Annamaria Molino CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

A 72-year-old woman presents to her oncologist for follow-up. She underwent a left simple mastectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma 10 years ago. She reports a new, persistent skin change on her left chest wall over the past few months. Physical examination reveals the findings depicted. A recent biopsy of the affected area confirmed the presence of malignant cells consistent with Paget's disease. Considering the patient's history and the biopsy findings, which of the following investigations is the most appropriate next step in her management?

A. Genetic testing for BRCA mutations
B. Topical imiquimod application
C. Repeat biopsy of the lesion
D. PET-CT scan for systemic staging
E. Wide local excision of the lesion
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PET-CT of a tuberculoma
Image by Annemie Snoeckx, Pieter Reyntiens, Damien Desbuquoit, Maarten J. Spinhoven, Paul E. Van Schil, Jan P. van Meerbeeck, Paul M. Parizel CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old patient with a history of smoking presents with a chronic cough and mild weight loss over three months. Physical examination is unremarkable, and vital signs are stable. Routine blood tests, including full blood count and inflammatory markers, are within normal limits. A chest X-ray revealed a solitary pulmonary nodule in the right upper lobe. Subsequent PET-CT imaging was performed as part of the diagnostic workup. Considering the findings demonstrated in the image provided in the context of this patient's presentation, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Refer for surgical consultation for lobectomy
B. Obtain tissue diagnosis via biopsy
C. Initiate empirical anti-tuberculosis therapy
D. Schedule follow-up CT scan in three months
E. Perform sputum microscopy and culture for acid-fast bacilli
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Endoscopy image of colon adenocarcinoma in sigmoid colon.
Image by Unknown CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old patient presents with a 4-month history of tenesmus and occasional bright red rectal bleeding. Colonoscopy was performed, and a representative image is shown. Biopsies confirm adenocarcinoma. Considering the likely stage suggested by the endoscopic appearance, which investigation is MOST crucial for pre-operative staging?

A. PET scan
B. Endorectal ultrasound
C. Repeat colonoscopy to assess proximal colon
D. CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
E. Bone scan
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A 72-year-old man with a history of heart failure and hypertension is admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. His medications include furosemide, ramipril, and digoxin. On day 3 of admission, he develops new-onset polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (Torsades de Pointes). An ECG shows a QTc interval of 580 ms. Which of the following is the MOST likely contributing factor to his arrhythmia?

A. Pneumonia-related hypoxia
B. Digoxin toxicity
C. Underlying structural heart disease
D. Ramipril-induced bradycardia
E. Electrolyte imbalance secondary to furosemide
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Fluoroscopic image of common bile duct stone seen at the time of ERCP. The stone is impacted in the distal common bile duct.
Image by Samir धर्म at en.wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. Initial investigations showed a WCC of 14,000, total bilirubin 6.0, ALP 450, ALT 300. She was diagnosed with acute cholangitis and underwent urgent ERCP, during which the image was obtained. Following successful endoscopic stone extraction and significant clinical improvement with normalising inflammatory markers and liver function tests, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the long-term management of this patient's condition?

A. Repeat ERCP with sphincterotomy in three months
B. Commencement of long-term oral antibiotic therapy
C. Referral for urgent liver transplant assessment
D. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy
E. Discharge home with outpatient gastroenterology follow-up
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Right leg affected by warfarin necrosis
Image by Bakoyiannis C, Karaolanis G, Patelis N, Maskanakis A, Tsaples G, Klonaris C, Georgopoulos S, Liakakos T CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 78-year-old female on warfarin for chronic atrial fibrillation presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of increasing pain and discolouration in her right lower leg. She denies trauma or recent falls. Her INR this morning was 2.5 (target 2.0-3.0). Vital signs are stable: BP 130/80, HR 75, RR 16, Temp 36.8°C. Examination reveals the findings shown in the image. Considering the patient's history, current medication, and the clinical appearance depicted, what is the most appropriate immediate management?

A. Discontinue warfarin, administer Vitamin K, and initiate heparin or LMWH.
B. Arrange urgent surgical debridement of the affected area.
C. Increase the dose of warfarin and monitor INR closely.
D. Initiate broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics.
E. Perform a Doppler ultrasound of the leg veins.
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A 65-year-old man with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension presents with exertional dyspnea and fatigue. His physical examination reveals a blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg, a heart rate of 88 bpm, and a soft S4 gallop. There is no peripheral edema. An electrocardiogram shows left ventricular hypertrophy with repolarization abnormalities. Which of the following diagnostic tests would be most appropriate to evaluate for underlying coronary artery disease in this patient?

A. Coronary angiography
B. Cardiac MRI
C. 24-hour Holter monitoring
D. Transthoracic echocardiography without stress
E. Exercise stress echocardiography
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A 70-year-old man with a history of atrial fibrillation presents with sudden onset of severe pain, pallor, and coldness in his left leg. On examination, the leg is cool below the knee, distal pulses are absent, and sensation is diminished. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial diagnostic investigation?

A. Venous duplex ultrasound of the limb
B. Serum lactate level
C. CT angiography of the limb
D. Arterial duplex ultrasound of the limb
E. ECG
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Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of encephaloid hepatocellular carcinoma
Image by R. Badea, Simona Ioanitescu CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male with Hepatitis C cirrhosis is undergoing routine surveillance. A liver lesion was identified on initial ultrasound, prompting a contrast-enhanced ultrasound study. Considering the findings demonstrated in the provided images, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Repeat ultrasound in 3 months
B. Refer for urgent liver transplant assessment
C. Prescribe antibiotics for suspected abscess
D. Liver biopsy for histological confirmation
E. Initiate palliative care
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A 70-year-old man with severe COPD (FEV1 35%) presents with increased cough, purulent sputum, and dyspnoea over 48 hours. He uses salbutamol PRN and tiotropium daily. His oxygen saturation is 88% on room air. Chest X-ray shows hyperinflation but no new consolidation. What is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Administer controlled oxygen therapy targeting SpO2 88-92%.
B. Perform arterial blood gas analysis.
C. Initiate intravenous antibiotics.
D. Prescribe high-dose inhaled corticosteroids.
E. Administer nebulised salbutamol and ipratropium bromide.
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Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of encephaloid hepatocellular carcinoma
Image by R. Badea, Simona Ioanitescu CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male with known Hepatitis B related cirrhosis and a history of alcohol excess presents for routine surveillance. His alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level, which has been stable at 15 ng/mL for the past two years, is now noted to be 185 ng/mL. A screening ultrasound performed three months prior was reported as showing diffuse parenchymal changes consistent with cirrhosis but no focal lesions. Due to the elevated AFP, a repeat ultrasound was performed, which identified a 2.5 cm nodule in segment VIII. To further characterise this lesion, a contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was performed, and the images provided are representative findings from this study. The patient has well-compensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A) and no significant comorbidities. His liver function tests are within normal limits except for a slightly elevated GGT. Given the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the provided images, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Referral for urgent liver transplant assessment
B. Repeat the contrast-enhanced ultrasound in 3 months to assess for interval change
C. Perform a percutaneous biopsy of the lesion for histological confirmation
D. Referral for discussion regarding locoregional therapy (e.g., ablation) or surgical resection
E. Initiate systemic therapy with sorafenib
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Post-embolization arteriogram showing coiled aneurysm (indicated by yellow arrows) of the posteriorcerebral artery with a residual aneurysmal sac.
Image by Promod Pillai, Aftab Karim, Anil Nanda CC BY 2.0 · Source

A 68-year-old male presents with worsening headaches and blurred vision 3 months post-embolization. The attached image was obtained. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Order an MRI of the brain to rule out other causes of headache
B. Initiate a course of high-dose corticosteroids
C. Refer for surgical clipping of the aneurysm
D. Repeat angiography to assess for recanalization
E. Prescribe analgesics and schedule a follow-up appointment in 6 months
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Diverticulitis in the left lower quadrant. There is outpouching of the colonic wall, wall thickening, and surrounding fat stranding.
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 65-year-old man presents to his GP with a 2-day history of constant, dull aching pain in the left lower quadrant of his abdomen. He reports mild nausea but no vomiting. His bowel movements have been normal. He denies fever or chills. His past medical history includes well-controlled hypertension. On examination, he is afebrile (37.2°C), blood pressure is 135/85 mmHg, heart rate 72 bpm, respiratory rate 16 bpm. Abdominal examination reveals mild tenderness on deep palpation in the left iliac fossa, without guarding or rebound tenderness. Bowel sounds are normal. Digital rectal examination is unremarkable. Laboratory investigations show a white cell count of 10.5 x 10^9/L (normal range 4-11) and a C-reactive protein of 25 mg/L (normal <5). A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed (image provided). Considering the patient's clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Initiate a course of oral antibiotics and provide analgesia for outpatient management.
B. Admit the patient for intravenous antibiotics and close observation.
C. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation for potential intervention.
D. Schedule a colonoscopy within the next 48 hours to assess the colonic mucosa.
E. Discharge the patient with only simple analgesia and advice on a low-fibre diet.
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A 70-year-old man presents with a vertebral fracture after a minor fall. Reviewing risk factors for osteoporosis, which of the following is the most likely risk factor?

A. Absence of family history of osteoporosis.
B. High dietary calcium intake
C. Previous fragility fracture
D. Regular vigorous exercise
E. High BMI
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with increasing shortness of breath and epigastric discomfort, particularly after meals. He has a history of well-controlled hypertension and takes aspirin daily. An X-ray is performed. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Prescribe a H2 receptor antagonist
B. Order a barium swallow study
C. Initiate a proton pump inhibitor and lifestyle modifications
D. Perform an upper endoscopy
E. Refer for surgical consultation for fundoplication
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A 68-year-old man with moderate COPD (FEV1 55%) on a LAMA reports persistent breathlessness (mMRC 2) and one moderate exacerbation requiring oral steroids last year. What is the most appropriate next step in maintenance therapy?

A. Add an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).
B. Increase the dose of the current LAMA.
C. Switch LAMA to a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA).
D. Add a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) as regular therapy.
E. Add a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA).
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Acute cholecystitis with gallbladder wall thickening, a large gallstone, and a large gallbladder
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male presents with 2 days of constant right upper quadrant pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea and subjective fever. On examination, he is febrile (38.5°C) with significant tenderness and a positive Murphy's sign in the right upper quadrant. His white cell count is elevated at 15 x 10^9/L, and CRP is 120 mg/L. Liver function tests are within normal limits. Considering the clinical presentation and the provided imaging, what is the most appropriate timing for definitive surgical management?

A. Within 72 hours of admission
B. Only if symptoms fail to resolve with antibiotics
C. Following a trial of percutaneous drainage
D. Urgently, within 6 hours
E. After 6-8 weeks of medical management
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A 75-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease presents with a 3-day history of productive cough, fever, and pleuritic chest pain. On examination, temperature is 38.2°C, HR 105, BP 130/80, RR 22, SpO2 93% on air. Crackles are heard over the right lower lung field. Which initial investigation is most crucial for guiding management?

A. Arterial blood gas
B. Blood cultures
C. Full blood count and C-reactive protein
D. Sputum culture and sensitivity
E. Chest X-ray
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CT scan of hepatocellular carcinoma, without and with IV contrast
Image by Zhenyu Pan, Guozi Yang, Tingting Yuan, Lihua Dong, Lihua Dong CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 65-year-old male with known cirrhosis secondary to chronic hepatitis B presents with increasing abdominal distension and fatigue. He has mild ascites. Liver function tests show bilirubin 35 umol/L, INR 1.3, albumin 30 g/L. AFP is 850 ng/mL. Imaging is performed as shown. Based on the imaging findings and clinical presentation, which of the following treatment modalities is MOST likely to be considered for this patient?

A. Initiation of systemic targeted therapy
B. Referral for liver transplantation assessment
C. Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation
D. Transarterial chemoembolisation
E. Surgical resection
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66-year-old man, smoker with mild COPD, on salbutamol and tiotropium, confused regarding usage. Back for GPMP. Care plan?

A. Recommend zoster and pneumococcal vaccines.
B. Increase salbutamol dose.
C. Advise to cut down on smoking.
D. Recommend flu, COVID, and pneumococcal vaccines.
E. Refer for pulmonary function tests.
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Diverticular disease
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old man presents with 3 days of worsening left lower quadrant pain, fever, and nausea. He has a history of diverticulosis. On examination, he is tachycardic (HR 105), afebrile (37.5°C), and has localised tenderness with guarding in the left iliac fossa. His blood tests show a WCC of 16 x 10^9/L and CRP 150 mg/L. He is commenced on intravenous antibiotics. A CT scan is performed (image provided). Considering the clinical context and the findings on the image, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Arrange for percutaneous drainage of the collection.
B. Prepare for urgent surgical resection of the affected bowel segment.
C. Transition to oral antibiotics and discharge home.
D. Request a repeat CT scan in 24 hours to assess for changes.
E. Continue intravenous antibiotics and monitor clinical progress.
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A 66-year-old man, active with a good diet, whose mother had osteoporosis at age 91, wants to check his osteoporosis risk. What risk factors prompt a bone mineral density (BMD) test?

A. Asthma
B. Rheumatoid arthritis
C. Generalized anxiety disorder
D. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
E. Hypertension
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