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geriatrics

Practice targeted AMC-style multiple-choice questions on geriatrics.

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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 72-year-old female presents with right leg pain and skin changes after starting warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Her INR is 3.5. Examination reveals the findings in the image. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Administer vitamin K and discontinue warfarin
B. Elevate the leg and apply compression bandages
C. Prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic
D. Apply topical corticosteroids
E. Increase the dose of warfarin
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An 85-year-old man from a nursing home presents with new confusion, mild cough, and temperature 37.9°C. Chest X-ray shows a right lower lobe infiltrate. He has dysphagia. Considering his presentation and risk factors, which initial antibiotic regimen is most appropriate?

A. Ceftriaxone
B. Azithromycin
C. Amoxicillin-clavulanate
D. Doxycycline
E. Amoxicillin
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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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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male on warfarin for atrial fibrillation presents with acute dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain. His INR is 7.0. A chest CT is performed (image attached). After initial resuscitation, what is the MOST appropriate intervention?

A. Administer intravenous vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate
B. Perform needle thoracostomy
C. Administer intravenous protamine sulfate
D. Administer intravenous furosemide
E. Observe and repeat CT scan in 6 hours
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An 80-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department from a nursing home due to increased lethargy and confusion over the past 24 hours. Her history includes dementia, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Nursing staff report poor oral intake for 48 hours and a recent cough. On examination, she is drowsy but rousable. Her vital signs are: BP 85/50 mmHg, HR 110 bpm, RR 22 breaths/min, Temp 37.8°C, SpO2 94% on air. Capillary refill time is 4 seconds. Chest auscultation reveals decreased breath sounds at the bases. Abdomen is soft. Urine dipstick shows leukocytes and nitrites. She is on lisinopril and metformin. What is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Administer intravenous fluid bolus (e.g., 500 mL crystalloid)
B. Administer oral rehydration solution
C. Obtain a chest X-ray and urine culture
D. Discontinue lisinopril and monitor blood pressure
E. Administer broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics
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A 65-year-old male with a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes presents with stable angina. He is currently on metformin, atorvastatin, and lisinopril. Which of the following medications is most appropriate to add to his regimen to reduce angina symptoms?

A. Diuretic (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide)
B. Beta-blocker (e.g., metoprolol)
C. Angiotensin II receptor blocker (e.g., losartan)
D. Calcium channel blocker (e.g., amlodipine)
E. Nitrate (e.g., isosorbide mononitrate)
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male on warfarin presents with dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain after a fall. INR is 7.0. A chest CT is performed (image attached). After initial resuscitation, what is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Observe and repeat CT chest in 6 hours
B. Administer intravenous vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate
C. Perform bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage
D. Administer intravenous protamine sulfate
E. Insert an intercostal chest drain
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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 70-year-old male presents to his general practitioner complaining of mild, chronic lower back pain that has been present for several months. He describes the pain as a dull ache, worse with prolonged standing. He has a significant past medical history including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and a 50-pack-year smoking history, all of which are currently managed with medications. He denies any acute abdominal pain, pulsatile sensation, or leg symptoms. On physical examination, his vital signs are stable: blood pressure 135/85 mmHg, heart rate 72 bpm, respiratory rate 14 breaths/min, and oxygen saturation 99% on room air. Abdominal examination is soft, non-tender, with no palpable masses. Peripheral pulses are symmetric and strong. As part of the investigation into his chronic back pain, a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed. An axial view from the scan is shown. Based on the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Refer urgently to a vascular surgeon for consideration of immediate endovascular repair.
B. Initiate a program of regular surveillance imaging with ultrasound and aggressively manage cardiovascular risk factors.
C. Reassure the patient that the finding is incidental and benign, and focus solely on managing his chronic back pain.
D. Arrange for immediate admission to hospital for observation and further investigation.
E. Schedule a repeat CT scan with contrast within 3 months to assess for rapid expansion.
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A 72-year-old man with fatigue and a past myocardial infarction at 55 is breathless on stairs, has a 3 kg weight gain, and ankle marks. What is his likely NYHA functional class for chronic heart failure?

A. NYHA Class 3
B. NYHA Class 2
C. NYHA Class 4
D. NYHA Class 1
E. Not enough information to classify.
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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 presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of worsening right upper quadrant abdominal pain radiating to her back, associated with fever, chills, and yellowing of her eyes. She denies prior similar episodes but reports occasional post-prandial discomfort. On examination, she is jaundiced and tender in the right upper quadrant. Vital signs are: temperature 38.5°C, heart rate 110 bpm, blood pressure 110/70 mmHg, respiratory rate 20 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation 97% on room air. Initial laboratory investigations reveal: white blood cell count 14,000/µL, total bilirubin 6.0 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase 450 U/L, ALT 300 U/L, and AST 250 U/L. An ERCP is performed, and the image is obtained. Following successful intervention to relieve the obstruction, the patient's symptoms begin to improve. Considering the likely underlying cause of this presentation and the findings during the procedure, what is the MOST appropriate next step in managing this patient's condition?

A. Referral for medical dissolution therapy for gallstones
B. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the same admission or shortly after discharge
C. Long-term antibiotic therapy to prevent recurrence
D. Discharge home with pain relief and follow-up in general practice
E. Repeat ERCP in 3 months to check for residual stones
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A 68-year-old man presents to the emergency department with fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath on exertion. His blood tests reveal a hemoglobin level of 7.5 g/dL, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 72 fL, and low serum ferritin. He has a history of osteoarthritis and takes ibuprofen regularly. What is the most likely cause of his anemia?

A. Thalassemia minor
B. Vitamin B12 deficiency
C. Chronic blood loss due to gastrointestinal bleeding
D. Anemia of chronic disease
E. Hemolytic anemia
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A 72-year-old man with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease (stage 3) presents with a 2-week history of exertional dyspnea and fatigue. He reports no chest pain but has noticed occasional palpitations. On examination, his blood pressure is 150/90 mmHg, heart rate is 110 bpm (irregularly irregular), respiratory rate is 20 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation is 94% on room air. Cardiovascular examination reveals a variable intensity S1, no S3 or S4, and a soft systolic murmur at the apex. Lung fields are clear. An ECG shows absent P waves and irregularly irregular QRS complexes. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Start a beta-blocker for rate control
B. Administer intravenous digoxin
C. Perform immediate electrical cardioversion
D. Initiate anticoagulation therapy
E. Refer for urgent coronary angiography
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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 72-year-old woman presents with 3 days of worsening right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and vomiting. She has a history of dyspepsia. On examination, she is afebrile (37.2°C), heart rate 95 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg. Abdominal examination reveals tenderness in the right upper quadrant without guarding or rebound. Bowel sounds are present. Her white cell count is 11 x 10^9/L, CRP 80 mg/L. Liver function tests are normal. The provided imaging was obtained. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided imaging, which of the following complications is this patient at increased risk of developing?

A. Acute appendicitis
B. Acute pancreatitis
C. Diverticulitis
D. Gallstone ileus
E. Ascending cholangitis
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 75-year-old presents with a 4-month history of increasing dysphagia to solids, occasional regurgitation, and chronic cough, particularly at night. He denies significant weight loss or chest pain. Past medical history includes type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Medications are metformin and perindopril. Physical examination is unremarkable. A chest X-ray is performed as part of the initial assessment. Considering the clinical presentation and the radiographic findings, which of the following investigations is most appropriate at this stage?

A. Barium swallow study
B. Oesophageal manometry
C. Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy
D. High-resolution CT chest
E. Ambulatory ECG monitoring
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male on warfarin presents to the ED after a fall. He complains of dyspnea and right-sided chest pain. His INR is 5.0. Vitals: HR 110, BP 100/60, RR 28, SpO2 90% on room air. The provided image was obtained. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Administer IV protamine sulfate
B. Tube thoracostomy
C. Administer IV vitamin K
D. Administer IV tranexamic acid
E. Observation with serial chest X-rays
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A 72-year-old man with a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents to his general practitioner for a routine check-up. His current medications include metformin, insulin, amlodipine, and aspirin. His blood pressure today is 150/90 mmHg. Laboratory results show a serum creatinine of 2.5 mg/dL (221 micromol/L) and a potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L. The GP decides to add an ACE inhibitor to his treatment regimen to help manage his blood pressure and provide renal protection. One week later, the patient returns complaining of fatigue and muscle weakness. Repeat laboratory tests reveal a serum creatinine of 3.1 mg/dL (274 micromol/L) and a potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in managing this patient?

A. Add a potassium-binding resin (e.g., sodium polystyrene sulfonate) and continue the ACE inhibitor.
B. Prescribe a loop diuretic to counteract the hyperkalemia and continue the ACE inhibitor.
C. Refer the patient to a nephrologist for urgent dialysis.
D. Reduce the dose of the ACE inhibitor by 50% and recheck renal function and potassium levels in one week.
E. Discontinue the ACE inhibitor and monitor renal function and potassium levels.
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

An 82-year-old female presents with a 3-month history of intermittent retrosternal burning pain, worse after meals, and occasional shortness of breath on exertion. Vital signs are stable. Physical exam unremarkable. A chest X-ray is performed. Considering the findings on the image, what is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Reassure the patient that the finding is benign and requires no further action.
B. Urgent surgical consultation for repair.
C. Initiate a trial of proton pump inhibitor therapy.
D. Proceed directly to oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD).
E. Refer for a stress echocardiogram to rule out cardiac ischaemia.
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A 62-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with confusion and lethargy. Her family reports she has been increasingly forgetful over the past week and has had a decreased appetite. She has a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension, for which she takes metformin and lisinopril. On examination, she is disoriented to time and place, with dry mucous membranes and decreased skin turgor. Her blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg, heart rate is 110 bpm, and temperature is 37.2°C. Laboratory tests reveal a serum sodium level of 118 mmol/L, serum osmolality of 260 mOsm/kg, and urine osmolality of 500 mOsm/kg. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?

A. Furosemide administration
B. Normal saline infusion
C. Hypertonic saline infusion
D. Fluid restriction
E. Demeclocycline administration
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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 reports the pain is severe and worsening rapidly. 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, the underlying mechanism involves a transient deficiency of which of the following?

A. Plasminogen
B. Antithrombin III
C. Protein C
D. Factor VIII
E. Vitamin K
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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 65-year-old patient recently started on warfarin for deep vein thrombosis presents with a painful, expanding skin lesion on their leg. They report the lesion appeared suddenly and has worsened over the past 24 hours. INR is 2.8. Considering the clinical presentation and the appearance of the lesion, what is the most appropriate immediate management step?

A. Apply topical corticosteroids and compression bandaging.
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics and debride the lesion.
C. Obtain a tissue biopsy for histopathology and culture.
D. Stop warfarin and initiate heparin and vitamin K.
E. Increase the warfarin dose and monitor INR closely.
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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 70-year-old male undergoes a CT scan for investigation of chronic back pain. He is otherwise asymptomatic with stable vital signs. The image provided is an axial view from this scan. Based on this finding, what is the most appropriate next step in the patient's management according to current guidelines?

A. Schedule elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
B. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation.
C. No further follow-up is required.
D. Repeat CT angiography in 6 months.
E. Arrange for surveillance ultrasound in 12 months.
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An 80-year-old man with known severe COPD and stable ischaemic heart disease presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of worsening shortness of breath, increased cough productive of yellow sputum, and ankle swelling. He is usually independent but now struggles to walk across a room. On examination: Alert but distressed. BP 130/85 mmHg, HR 110 bpm, RR 28 breaths/min, Temp 37.8°C, SpO2 88% on room air. Chest examination reveals diffuse wheezes and crackles bilaterally, reduced air entry at the bases. JVP is elevated to 5 cm above the sternal angle. Mild pitting edema to the knees. ECG shows sinus tachycardia, no acute ischaemic changes. Chest X-ray shows hyperinflation, flattened diaphragms, increased bronchial markings, and mild interstitial prominence. Given this presentation, what is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Administer controlled oxygen therapy aiming for SpO2 88-92% and nebulised bronchodilators.
B. Administer intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics.
C. Perform urgent echocardiogram.
D. Administer intravenous furosemide.
E. Administer high-flow oxygen via non-rebreather mask.
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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 75-year-old male with a history of a reducible groin hernia presents with acute abdominal pain. The provided image was taken. What is the most likely complication?

A. Indirect hernia
B. Sliding hernia
C. Richter's hernia
D. Strangulation
E. Direct hernia
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Endoscopy image of colon adenocarcinoma in sigmoid colon.
Image by Unknown CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 70-year-old presents with iron deficiency anaemia and intermittent rectal bleeding. Colonoscopy was performed, and a representative image is shown. Biopsies are pending but malignancy is strongly suspected based on the endoscopic appearance. What is the MOST appropriate next investigation to guide definitive management?

A. Referral for palliative care
B. PET scan
C. Repeat colonoscopy in 3 months
D. CT scan of chest, abdomen, and pelvis
E. Endoscopic ultrasound
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male presents with persistent vomiting and epigastric pain. He reports a history of NSAID use for chronic arthritis. An X-ray is performed. Which of the following is the MOST likely complication associated with this finding?

A. Aortic dissection
B. Gastric volvulus
C. Pneumonia
D. Pericarditis
E. Esophageal stricture
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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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An incarcerated inguinal hernia as seen on CT
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 78-year-old man presents to the emergency department with acute, severe right groin pain and a palpable, non-reducible mass. He reports associated nausea but denies vomiting or changes in bowel habit. His vital signs are within normal limits, and bowel sounds are audible. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, the findings of which are depicted in the image. Given the clinical context and the information revealed by the imaging study, what is the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Urgent surgical consultation for operative intervention.
B. Attempt manual reduction under adequate analgesia and sedation.
C. Request an urgent Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow to the contents.
D. Initiate intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and monitor closely.
E. Arrange for elective hernia repair in the coming weeks.
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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

An 82-year-old woman with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and a recent hospitalisation for pneumonia was discharged 5 days ago on warfarin 5mg daily. She presents to the emergency department complaining of increasing pain and a rapidly evolving lesion on her right lower leg over the past 48 hours. She denies trauma. Her vital signs are stable: BP 130/80 mmHg, HR 78 bpm, RR 16/min, Temp 36.8°C. Physical examination reveals the appearance shown in the image on her right anterior lower leg. Her INR today is 4.5. She has no known history of protein C or S deficiency. Considering the patient's history, current medication, laboratory result, and the clinical appearance depicted, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Prescribe oral flucloxacillin and review in 24 hours for suspected bacterial cellulitis.
B. Increase the daily dose of warfarin to achieve a target INR of 2.5-3.0 more rapidly.
C. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation for debridement of the necrotic tissue.
D. Discontinue warfarin, administer intravenous vitamin K, and initiate therapeutic dose unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin.
E. Switch warfarin to rivaroxaban 20mg daily and monitor the lesion.
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Hepatic metastases from a gastric mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC).
Image by Hellerhoff CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with a 4-month history of increasing fatigue, anorexia, and a 10 kg weight loss. He reports occasional nausea but no vomiting or abdominal pain. His vital signs are stable. Physical examination reveals mild jaundice and palpable hepatomegaly. Blood tests show Hb 105 g/L, elevated AST/ALT, and a mildly raised bilirubin. An upper endoscopy showed a large gastric mass, with histology pending. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis was performed. Considering the clinical context and the findings on the provided imaging, what is the most likely implication for this patient's overall management strategy?

A. Referral for liver transplantation assessment.
B. Planning for curative surgical resection of the primary tumour and liver lesions.
C. Urgent initiation of aggressive systemic chemotherapy with curative intent.
D. Focus on symptom control and quality of life measures.
E. Further investigation with MRI liver to characterise the lesions.
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 75-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of worsening colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and multiple episodes of bilious vomiting. She reports no passage of flatus or stool for the past 18 hours. Her past medical history includes an open appendectomy 30 years ago and a hysterectomy 10 years ago. On examination, she is afebrile, heart rate 92 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, respiratory rate 18/min, oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Her abdomen is distended and diffusely tender to palpation, with high-pitched tinkling bowel sounds on auscultation. A plain abdominal X-ray series, including the image provided, was obtained. Considering the patient's clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate next step in her management?

A. Administer a large volume enema
B. Administer broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics
C. Order a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast
D. Proceed directly to exploratory laparotomy
E. Insert a nasogastric tube for decompression
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A 68-year-old man with a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and stable angina is scheduled for elective hernia repair surgery. He is currently on aspirin, metformin, lisinopril, and atorvastatin. His last angina episode was over a year ago, and he has no history of myocardial infarction. What is the most appropriate preoperative management step to minimize his cardiovascular risk during surgery?

A. Discontinue aspirin therapy one week before surgery
B. Increase the dose of atorvastatin
C. Continue aspirin therapy
D. Order a preoperative stress test
E. Start beta-blocker therapy
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

An 82-year-old patient presents with a 6-month history of chronic cough, intermittent dyspnea, and occasional regurgitation, particularly when lying flat. They deny significant chest pain or weight loss. Past medical history includes well-controlled hypertension and mild asthma managed with salbutamol PRN. On examination, vital signs are stable, and lung sounds are clear with no wheeze. An outpatient chest X-ray was performed as part of the workup for the cough and dyspnea. Considering the radiographic findings in conjunction with the clinical history, which of the following investigations is most appropriate at this stage?

A. High-resolution CT chest
B. Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD)
C. Pulmonary function tests
D. 24-hour oesophageal pH monitoring
E. Cardiac stress test
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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 70-year-old male undergoes a CT scan for investigation of chronic back pain. He has no history of abdominal pain or pulsatile mass. His blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg. The image provided is an axial view from this scan. Based on this finding and the patient's clinical status, what is the most appropriate next step in management according to current guidelines?

A. Schedule elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
B. Arrange for surveillance ultrasound in 12 months.
C. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation.
D. Repeat CT angiography in 6 months.
E. No further follow-up is required.
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 78-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of intermittent upper abdominal pain radiating to the chest and mild dysphagia. He denies shortness of breath or fever. Vital signs are stable. A chest X-ray is obtained. Considering the radiographic findings in the context of the patient's presentation, what is the most appropriate immediate management plan?

A. Admit for observation and serial cardiac enzymes.
B. Perform a bedside echocardiogram to assess cardiac function.
C. Order a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis.
D. Referral for urgent surgical consultation.
E. Initiate high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy and arrange outpatient follow-up.
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 75-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of worsening colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and multiple episodes of bilious vomiting. She reports no passage of flatus or stool for the past 18 hours. Her past medical history includes an open appendectomy 30 years ago and a hysterectomy 10 years ago. On examination, she is afebrile, heart rate 92 bpm, blood pressure 130/80 mmHg, respiratory rate 18/min, oxygen saturation 98% on room air. Her abdomen is distended and diffusely tender to palpation, with high-pitched tinkling bowel sounds on auscultation. A plain abdominal X-ray series, including the image provided, was obtained. Considering the patient's clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate next step in her management?

A. Perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
B. Arrange for an urgent contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis.
C. Discharge the patient home with oral analgesia and instructions to return if symptoms worsen.
D. Administer a high-dose osmotic laxative orally.
E. Proceed directly to exploratory laparotomy.
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

An 82-year-old patient presents to the emergency department with a 3-month history of intermittent retrosternal chest discomfort, worse after meals, and mild shortness of breath on exertion. They report occasional regurgitation but deny significant dysphagia. Past medical history includes hypertension and osteoarthritis. Medications are perindopril and paracetamol. On examination, vital signs are stable, and lung sounds are clear. A chest X-ray is performed. Based on the findings in the image, what is the most appropriate next step in management or investigation?

A. Arrange for an Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy (OGD)
B. Order a CT pulmonary angiogram
C. Advise on weight loss and elevate the head of the bed
D. Initiate treatment with a high-dose proton pump inhibitor
E. Perform a stress echocardiogram
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An 80-year-old man presents with new confusion, cough, and fever. He has a history of COPD. On exam, he is tachypnoeic and has crackles at the right base. His oxygen saturation is 88% on room air. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Bronchoscopy
B. C-reactive protein
C. Sputum Gram stain and culture
D. High-resolution CT chest
E. Chest X-ray
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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

An 80-year-old male with a history of smoking and hypertension presents to his GP with mild, intermittent lower back pain. Physical examination is unremarkable. Routine blood tests are normal. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed to investigate the back pain. Considering the findings demonstrated in the provided image in the context of this patient's presentation, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Refer immediately for surgical consultation for elective repair.
B. Initiate aggressive blood pressure control and repeat imaging in 5 years.
C. Schedule regular surveillance imaging.
D. Perform urgent angiography to assess for rupture risk.
E. Discharge with advice to return if pain worsens significantly.
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An 98-year-old lady with cognitive impairment has had 2 episodes of acute delirium, is pacing, and is vomiting blood. What is the immediate management?

A. Give oral antiemetics and observe.
B. Start IV fluids and wait for review by GP.
C. Call 000 and transfer to the regional hospital.
D. SC line and administer haloperidol, morphine, and midazolam.
E. Arrange an urgent gastroscopy for tomorrow.
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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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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 presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and yellowing of her eyes. Her vital signs are stable, but laboratory investigations reveal elevated inflammatory markers and liver function tests consistent with biliary obstruction and infection. An ERCP is performed, and the image is obtained. Following successful intervention to relieve the obstruction, the patient's symptoms begin to improve. Considering the likely underlying cause of this presentation and the findings during the procedure, what is the MOST appropriate next step in managing this patient's condition?

A. Repeat ERCP in 3 months to check for residual stones.
B. Discharge home with pain relief and follow-up in general practice.
C. Referral for medical dissolution therapy for gallstones.
D. Long-term antibiotic therapy to prevent recurrence.
E. Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the same admission or shortly after discharge.
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A 68-year-old man with a history of diverticulosis presents with recurrent, large volume rectal bleeding. Initial colonoscopy failed to identify or control the source. He remains haemodynamically stable after resuscitation. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Repeat colonoscopy with epinephrine injection
B. Administration of intravenous octreotide
C. Initiation of high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy
D. Urgent surgical colectomy
E. Angiography with embolization
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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 68-year-old patient on warfarin for a recent DVT presents with a painful, rapidly expanding skin lesion on their leg that started 48 hours ago. Their INR is 2.9. Given the clinical context and the appearance of the lesion, what is the most appropriate immediate management step?

A. Increase the warfarin dose and monitor INR closely.
B. Switch warfarin to a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC).
C. Obtain a skin biopsy and continue current management.
D. Apply topical antibiotics and continue warfarin.
E. Stop warfarin, administer Vitamin K, and initiate heparin.
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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 72-year-old man with a history of hypertension and smoking presents to his GP with mild, intermittent abdominal discomfort. His vital signs are stable, and abdominal examination is soft and non-tender. As part of the workup, a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed. The provided image is an axial view from this study. Based on the clinical context and the findings in the provided image, what is the most appropriate next step in this patient's management?

A. Referral for urgent endovascular repair planning
B. No further action is required at this time
C. Referral to a vascular surgeon for ongoing surveillance
D. Urgent surgical consultation for immediate repair
E. Repeat CT scan in 3 months to assess for growth
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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 72-year-old woman with a history of well-controlled hypertension and type 2 diabetes presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of visual disturbance and mild weakness. She describes the visual issue as a loss of vision in the left half of her visual field, which began approximately 3 hours ago. She also notes some difficulty moving her right arm and leg, which started around the same time. On examination, her vital signs are stable: BP 135/85 mmHg, HR 78 bpm, RR 16/min, Temp 36.8°C, SpO2 98% on room air. Neurological examination confirms a left homonymous hemianopia and mild right hemiparesis (MRC grade 4/5) affecting both upper and lower limbs. Sensation is intact. Reflexes are symmetrical, and plantar responses are flexor. A non-contrast CT head was unremarkable for acute haemorrhage or established infarction. Subsequent CT angiography identified a cerebral aneurysm in a location consistent with her symptoms, and she was taken for endovascular coiling. The procedure was completed approximately 6 hours after symptom onset. The image provided is a digital subtraction angiogram obtained immediately following the coiling procedure. Despite the intervention, her left homonymous hemianopia and right hemiparesis persist without significant improvement. Considering the findings demonstrated in the post-procedure imaging in the context of her ongoing neurological deficits, which of the following is the MOST appropriate immediate management step?

A. Perform a repeat cerebral angiogram or high-resolution cross-sectional imaging to assess the residual sac and flow dynamics.
B. Assume the persistent symptoms are unrelated to the treated lesion and investigate for alternative causes such as carotid artery stenosis.
C. Administer intravenous alteplase given the persistent symptoms and recent onset.
D. Initiate aggressive inpatient stroke rehabilitation therapy immediately.
E. Discharge the patient home with urgent outpatient follow-up with neurology.
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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

An asymptomatic 70-year-old male undergoes a CT scan of the abdomen as part of an investigation for mild, intermittent lower back pain. His vital signs are stable, and physical examination is unremarkable. Considering the findings on the provided image, what is the most appropriate next step in this patient's management?

A. No further imaging required; manage back pain symptomatically.
B. Annual abdominal ultrasound surveillance.
C. Urgent referral for vascular surgical assessment.
D. Referral for a follow-up CT angiogram in 2 years.
E. Repeat CT scan in 6 months.
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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

An 82-year-old woman with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and a recent hospitalisation for pneumonia was discharged 5 days ago on warfarin 5mg daily. She presents to the emergency department complaining of increasing pain and a rapidly evolving lesion on her right lower leg over the past 48 hours. She denies trauma. Her vital signs are stable: BP 130/80 mmHg, HR 78 bpm, RR 16/min, Temp 36.8°C. Physical examination reveals the appearance shown in the image on her right anterior lower leg. Her INR today is 4.5. She has no known history of protein C or S deficiency. Considering the patient's history, current medication, laboratory result, and the clinical appearance depicted, which of the following represents the most appropriate immediate management strategy?

A. Administer subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin and continue warfarin.
B. Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics and arrange for surgical debridement.
C. Reduce the dose of warfarin and monitor the lesion closely.
D. Administer fresh frozen plasma to correct the INR and continue warfarin at a lower dose.
E. Stop warfarin, administer intravenous Vitamin K, and initiate therapeutic dose unfractionated heparin.
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CT scan showing hemothorax caused by warfarin use
Image by Cevik Y CC BY 3.0 · Source

A 75-year-old male on warfarin for atrial fibrillation presents with acute dyspnoea and pleuritic chest pain. He is hypotensive with a BP of 90/60 mmHg and tachycardic at 110 bpm. His INR is 7.2. A chest CT is performed (image attached). Considering the clinical context and imaging findings, what is the MOST appropriate immediate management step?

A. Administer intravenous Vitamin K and Prothrombinex-VF
B. Initiate high-flow nasal cannula oxygen
C. Arrange for urgent surgical consultation for thoracotomy
D. Perform urgent tube thoracostomy
E. Administer intravenous furosemide
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A 72-year-old man presents with 4 weeks of shortness of breath (SOB), shoulder pain, weight loss, cervical lymphadenopathy, and finger clubbing. What is the likely diagnosis?

A. Lung cancer
B. Tuberculosis
C. Multiple myeloma
D. Lymphoma
E. Sarcoidosis
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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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