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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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A 72-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with increasing confusion and generalized weakness over the past week. Her medical history includes hypertension, for which she takes hydrochlorothiazide 25mg daily. On examination, she is lethargic and disoriented. Her blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg, heart rate is 88 bpm, and respiratory rate is 16 breaths per minute. Neurological examination reveals decreased reflexes. Initial laboratory investigations reveal the following: Sodium: 118 mmol/L Potassium: 3.8 mmol/L Chloride: 85 mmol/L Bicarbonate: 24 mmol/L Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 25 mg/dL Creatinine: 1.1 mg/dL Glucose: 95 mg/dL Urine osmolality is 600 mOsm/kg. Serum osmolality is 250 mOsm/kg. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Initiation of desmopressin (DDAVP) therapy to reduce free water excretion.
B. Administration of intravenous hypertonic saline (3% NaCl) at a rate of 50 mL/hour.
C. Administration of a loop diuretic (e.g., furosemide) to promote free water excretion.
D. Administration of intravenous normal saline (0.9% NaCl) at a rate of 100 mL/hour.
E. Fluid restriction to 800-1000 mL/day and monitoring of serum sodium levels every 4-6 hours.
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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 72-year-old male presents to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset shortness of breath and right-sided chest pain. He reports that the pain started acutely this morning and has been gradually worsening. He has a history of atrial fibrillation and has been taking warfarin for the past 5 years. He denies any recent trauma or injury. On examination, his vital signs are: heart rate 110 bpm, blood pressure 100/60 mmHg, respiratory rate 28 breaths per minute, oxygen saturation 88% on room air. Auscultation reveals decreased breath sounds on the right side. The patient is pale and diaphoretic. A chest X-ray was initially performed, followed by the image shown. Given the clinical presentation and the findings on the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Administer protamine sulfate
B. Perform a thoracentesis
C. Administer intravenous antibiotics
D. Order a ventilation/perfusion scan
E. Insert a chest tube
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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 glargine, amlodipine, and aspirin. His blood pressure today is 150/90 mmHg. Laboratory results show a serum creatinine of 2.5 mg/dL (baseline 2.0 mg/dL), potassium of 5.4 mEq/L, and a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) of 350 mg/g. The GP decides to add an ACE inhibitor to his medication regimen to help manage his blood pressure and proteinuria. One week later, the patient returns complaining of fatigue and muscle weakness. Repeat laboratory testing reveals a serum creatinine of 3.1 mg/dL and a potassium of 6.2 mEq/L. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in managing this patient?

A. Discontinue the ACE inhibitor and administer calcium gluconate
B. Add a potassium-sparing diuretic to counteract the hyperkalemia
C. Continue the ACE inhibitor and add a loop diuretic
D. Prescribe a potassium-binding resin and continue the ACE inhibitor
E. Reduce the dose of the ACE inhibitor by 50% and monitor renal function closely
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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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A 72-year-old man with a history of chronic kidney disease stage 4, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes presents to the emergency department with confusion and lethargy. His family reports that he has been increasingly drowsy over the past two days. On examination, he is disoriented to time and place, with a blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg, heart rate of 88 bpm, respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, and temperature of 36.5°C. Laboratory tests reveal: sodium 130 mmol/L, potassium 5.8 mmol/L, bicarbonate 18 mmol/L, urea 25 mmol/L, creatinine 450 µmol/L, and glucose 8 mmol/L. An ECG shows peaked T waves. What is the most appropriate immediate management step?

A. Administer oral sodium polystyrene sulfonate
B. Administer intravenous calcium gluconate
C. Initiate hemodialysis
D. Start intravenous insulin and glucose
E. Administer intravenous sodium bicarbonate
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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 dyspnea. He has a history of GORD. The provided image was taken. What is the most appropriate next step?

A. Refer for surgical consultation for fundoplication.
B. Prescribe prokinetic agents to improve gastric emptying.
C. Initiate a trial of PPI therapy and lifestyle modifications.
D. Order a barium swallow study to further evaluate the anatomy.
E. Perform an upper endoscopy to assess for complications.
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A 68-year-old woman presents with a 2-week history of progressive weakness in her right arm and leg, associated with a tremor in the right hand. She also reports feeling more tired than usual. Her general practitioner noted an elevated TSH (12 mIU/L, reference range 0.4-4.0 mIU/L) on routine blood tests done a month ago, but free T4 was within the normal range (15 pmol/L, reference range 10-20 pmol/L). On examination, she has mild right-sided hemiparesis (MRC grade 4/5) and a coarse tremor in the right hand, worse with action. Reflexes are brisk on the right. The rest of the neurological exam is unremarkable. She has mild bradycardia (55 bpm) but no other signs of overt hypothyroidism. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
B. Serum anti-thyroid antibodies (e.g., TPO antibodies)
C. CT angiography of the head and neck
D. Repeat thyroid function tests including free T3
E. MRI brain
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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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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 68-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with confusion and muscle weakness. Her medications include hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension. Initial laboratory results show: Sodium 120 mmol/L (Normal: 135-145 mmol/L), Potassium 3.8 mmol/L (Normal: 3.5-5.0 mmol/L), Chloride 90 mmol/L (Normal: 95-105 mmol/L). What is the most likely cause of her hyponatremia?

A. Hyperglycemia
B. Thiazide-induced SIADH
C. Primary polydipsia
D. Renal failure
E. Adrenal insufficiency
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A 78M presents with cough, fever, confusion. BP 90/60, RR 30, Temp 38.5, SpO2 90% on air. CXR shows LUL consolidation. What is the most appropriate initial management?

A. Arrange urgent viral PCR testing
B. Initiate oral antibiotics and admit to general ward
C. Discharge home with oral antibiotics
D. Perform urgent bronchoscopy
E. Initiate IV antibiotics and assess for ICU admission
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An 80-year-old presents with cough, fever, and new confusion. CXR shows right lower lobe consolidation. What is the most appropriate initial antibiotic regimen?

A. Piperacillin-tazobactam
B. Amoxicillin
C. Doxycycline
D. Ciprofloxacin
E. Ceftriaxone and Azithromycin
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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 68-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, associated with mild fever (38.1°C) and constipation. On examination, he has localised tenderness in the left iliac fossa without guarding or rebound. His blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg, heart rate 78 bpm, respiratory rate 16 bpm. Blood tests show a white cell count of 12.5 x 10^9/L (normal range 4-11). A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed (image provided). Considering the patient's presentation and the findings demonstrated in the image, which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management strategy?

A. Discharge with advice on a low-residue diet and follow-up in 6 months.
B. Admission for intravenous antibiotics and close observation.
C. Urgent colonoscopy to evaluate the affected segment.
D. Outpatient management with oral antibiotics and analgesia.
E. Urgent surgical consultation for Hartmann's procedure.
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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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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 on warfarin for chronic atrial fibrillation presents with a 2-day history of increasing pain and a developing lesion on her right lower leg. She denies trauma. Her INR is therapeutic at 2.5. Vitals are stable. Considering the clinical presentation and the image provided, what is the most appropriate immediate management?

A. Continue warfarin at a reduced dose and monitor the lesion closely.
B. Switch anticoagulation to a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC).
C. Discontinue warfarin, administer vitamin K, and initiate heparin.
D. Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics and arrange surgical debridement.
E. Apply topical corticosteroids and compression bandaging.
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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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Inguinal hernia right view. Adult male with an inguinal hernia, showing bulging in the groin area.
Image by IkeTheSloth CC0 1.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents to the clinic complaining of a painless swelling in his right groin that has been present for several years. He reports that the swelling occasionally increases in size with prolonged standing or heavy lifting, but it usually reduces when he lies down. He denies any acute pain, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. His past medical history includes well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus and a remote appendectomy. On physical examination, his vital signs are within normal limits. Abdominal examination is unremarkable. Examination of the groin reveals the finding shown in the image. The swelling is easily reducible when the patient is supine. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial management strategy for this patient?

A. Urgent surgical exploration
B. Elective surgical repair
C. Referral for watchful waiting with lifestyle modifications
D. Initiation of high-fiber diet and stool softeners
E. Prescription of a truss for symptomatic relief
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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 male presents with new onset back pain. His CT is shown. What is the most appropriate initial management?

A. Lifestyle modification advice
B. Commence beta-blocker therapy
C. Repeat imaging in 12 months
D. Prescribe a statin
E. Referral to vascular surgery
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Upright X-ray demonstrating small bowel obstruction
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 72-year-old male presents with vomiting and abdominal pain. An abdominal X-ray is performed. What is the MOST likely underlying cause?

A. Appendicitis
B. Diverticulitis
C. Volvulus
D. Adhesions from prior surgery
E. Pancreatitis
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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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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 78-year-old male presents to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of sudden onset, severe pain and swelling in his right groin. He reports nausea but no vomiting. On examination, there is a tender, firm, non-reducible lump in the right inguinal region. Bowel sounds are present. Vitals are stable: BP 130/80, HR 75, Temp 36.8°C. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, shown in the image. Integrating the patient's symptoms, physical examination, and the findings shown in the image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step?

A. Attempt manual reduction under sedation
B. Discharge home with analgesia and follow-up in outpatient clinic
C. Order an urgent abdominal X-ray series
D. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics and observe
E. Urgent surgical consultation and exploration
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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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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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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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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 woman recently started on warfarin for a pulmonary embolism presents with a painful, rapidly expanding purpuric lesion on her thigh, which developed two days ago. Her INR is 2.5. She has no history of trauma to the area. Considering the clinical presentation and the appearance of the lesion, what is the most likely underlying pathophysiological process?

A. Allergic vasculitis secondary to warfarin
B. Protein C deficiency leading to paradoxical thrombosis
C. Vitamin K deficiency exacerbating bleeding
D. Direct toxic effect of warfarin on dermal capillaries
E. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia causing microthrombi
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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 to the ED with increasing shortness of breath and epigastric pain, especially when lying down. He has a history of GORD, hypertension and COPD. His vitals are stable. An X-ray is performed. What is the MOST likely underlying cause of his presentation?

A. Gastric malignancy
B. Esophageal dysmotility
C. Reduced lower esophageal sphincter tone
D. Aortic aneurysm
E. Pneumonia
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A 72-year-old woman presents with sudden onset shortness of breath and pleuritic chest pain. She had knee surgery 10 days ago. She has a history of hypertension. On examination, she is anxious, respiratory rate is 24, heart rate 105, BP 130/80, SpO2 92% on room air. Lungs are clear. ECG shows sinus tachycardia. There is mild swelling in the operated leg. Considering the likely diagnosis, which initial investigation is most appropriate?

A. D-dimer
B. Chest X-ray
C. CT pulmonary angiography
D. Ventilation-perfusion scan
E. Lower limb ultrasound
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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 for investigation of mild, intermittent lower back pain. Physical examination is unremarkable. Vital signs are stable. A CT scan of the abdomen is performed. Based on the provided image and clinical context, what is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Repeat CT scan in 3 months
B. Urgent referral for surgical repair
C. Annual ultrasound surveillance
D. No further follow-up required
E. Initiate antiplatelet therapy and review in 1 year
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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 68-year-old man with known alcoholic cirrhosis presents for routine surveillance. He reports mild fatigue. Liver function tests are within his baseline (Child-Pugh A). Alpha-fetoprotein is 150 ng/mL. The provided images are obtained. Considering the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the images, which of the following treatment modalities is most likely to be considered first for this patient?

A. Transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE)
B. Surgical resection
C. Palliative care
D. Systemic targeted therapy (e.g., Sorafenib)
E. Liver transplantation assessment
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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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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 68-year-old patient presents with chronic intermittent upper abdominal discomfort, postprandial fullness, and occasional regurgitation. Physical examination is unremarkable. A chest radiograph is performed as part of the workup. Considering the radiographic findings in the context of the patient's presentation, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Initiate a trial of high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy.
B. Advise dietary modifications and schedule follow-up in 3 months.
C. Referral for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
D. Arrange urgent surgical consultation for repair.
E. Request a barium swallow study to assess anatomy.
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X-ray of hiatal hernia
Image by Ahmed Farhat, Daryn Towle CC BY 4.0 · Source

A 72-year-old patient presents with intermittent chest discomfort and increasing shortness of breath, particularly after meals. Vitals are stable. Physical examination is unremarkable. A chest X-ray is performed. Considering the radiographic findings in the context of the patient's symptoms, what is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Trial of high-dose proton pump inhibitors
B. High-resolution CT chest
C. Barium swallow study
D. Referral for surgical assessment and repair
E. Urgent cardiac catheterisation
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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 a 3-day history of abdominal pain, distension, and obstipation, with a background of multiple abdominal surgeries. Vitals show HR 110, BP 110/70, T 37.8°C. Physical exam reveals a distended abdomen with high-pitched bowel sounds. An upright abdominal X-ray is shown. Considering the clinical findings and the radiographic appearance, which of the following potential complications is the MOST critical to evaluate for urgently?

A. Acute kidney injury
B. Severe electrolyte imbalance
C. Bowel ischaemia or strangulation
D. Deep vein thrombosis
E. Aspiration pneumonia
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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 their GP with a 3-month history of intermittent retrosternal chest discomfort, often described as a burning sensation, worse after meals and when lying flat. They also report mild shortness of breath on exertion and occasional regurgitation, but deny significant dysphagia or weight loss. Past medical history includes hypertension and osteoarthritis. Medications are perindopril and paracetamol. On examination, vital signs are stable (BP 130/80, HR 75, RR 16, SpO2 97% on air), and lung sounds are clear. A chest X-ray is performed as part of the workup. Based on the clinical context and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the most appropriate next step in investigation?

A. Reassure the patient that the X-ray is normal and advise lifestyle modifications
B. Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD)
C. Refer for formal cardiac stress testing
D. Commence a trial of high-dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy
E. Perform pulmonary function tests (PFTs)
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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 70-year-old woman presents with a persistent, slowly enlarging skin lesion on her left chest wall, which she first noticed several months ago. She underwent a left simple mastectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma 12 years prior. Physical examination reveals the findings depicted. A recent biopsy of the lesion confirmed the presence of Paget cells. She has no other new symptoms. Her vital signs are stable. Considering the patient's history and the biopsy findings, which of the following investigations is the most appropriate next step in her management?

A. Observation with regular follow-up
B. PET-CT scan for staging
C. Wide local excision of the lesion
D. Topical corticosteroid cream
E. Repeat biopsy of the lesion
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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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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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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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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 70-year-old woman with a history of hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 is prescribed an ACE inhibitor for blood pressure control. Which of the following parameters requires the closest monitoring after initiating the ACE inhibitor?

A. Liver function tests
B. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
C. Serum creatinine and potassium
D. Serum calcium
E. Complete blood count
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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 acute shortness of breath. INR is 5.0. The provided image was obtained. What is the MOST likely underlying cause?

A. Pneumonia
B. Anticoagulation-related bleeding
C. Heart failure exacerbation
D. Pulmonary embolism
E. Spontaneous pneumothorax
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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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