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middle-aged woman

Practice targeted AMC-style multiple-choice questions on middle-aged woman.

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A 52-year-old woman with a 10-year history of type 2 diabetes mellitus presents to your clinic for a routine follow-up. She has been experiencing difficulty in controlling her blood glucose levels despite being on metformin and glipizide. Her HbA1c is 8.5%. She has a BMI of 32 kg/m² and a sedentary lifestyle. She reports consuming a diet high in processed foods and sugary beverages. Her blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, and her lipid profile shows elevated LDL cholesterol. Which of the following dietary and lifestyle modifications is most likely to improve her glycemic control and overall cardiovascular risk profile?

A. Switching to a vegetarian diet and incorporating yoga
B. Adopting a Mediterranean diet and engaging in regular aerobic exercise
C. Reducing sodium intake and focusing on high-intensity interval training
D. Increasing protein intake and starting resistance training
E. Following a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet and practicing intermittent fasting
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Ultrasonographic picture taken from a patient with left ureteral stone with hydronephrosis, created in Taiwan
Image by morning2k CC BY 2.5 · Source

A 48-year-old woman presents with acute onset severe left flank pain radiating to the groin, associated with nausea. She denies fever or dysuria. Vitals are stable. Urinalysis shows haematuria. Serum creatinine is 75 µmol/L. An ultrasound is performed. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, which of the following is the most appropriate next diagnostic step?

A. Prescribe tamsulosin and arrange outpatient follow-up.
B. Repeat the renal ultrasound in 24 hours.
C. Perform a retrograde pyelogram.
D. Arrange a non-contrast CT scan of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
E. Obtain a plain abdominal X-ray (KUB).
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 45-year-old woman presents with a 3-month history of increasing abdominal bloating and occasional pelvic discomfort. She reports normal menstrual cycles and no weight loss or changes in bowel habits. Physical examination is unremarkable except for mild abdominal distension. Routine blood tests, including CA-125, are within normal limits. A CT scan of the pelvis is performed, with a relevant axial image shown. Considering the clinical presentation, the normal CA-125 level, and the findings demonstrated in the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Reassurance and discharge with advice to return if symptoms worsen.
B. Referral to a gynaecological oncologist for further assessment.
C. Repeat CT scan in 3 months to monitor size and characteristics.
D. Laparoscopic cystectomy for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
E. Initiate a trial of oral contraceptive pills to reduce cyst size.
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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 45-year-old woman presents to the ED with right upper quadrant pain, fever, and nausea for 2 days. Her vital signs are: BP 130/80 mmHg, HR 105 bpm, Temp 38.5°C, RR 18 bpm, SpO2 98% on room air. An abdominal CT scan with contrast is performed, and a slice is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Start intravenous antibiotics and observe
B. Surgical consultation for cholecystectomy
C. Hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan
D. ERCP to rule out choledocholithiasis
E. Discharge home with oral antibiotics and analgesics
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of progressive fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. She also reports constipation and dry skin. On examination, her blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg, heart rate is 60 bpm, and she has a delayed relaxation phase of her deep tendon reflexes. Laboratory tests reveal a low free T4 level and an elevated TSH level. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management?

A. Beta-blockers
B. Levothyroxine
C. Thyroidectomy
D. Methimazole
E. Radioactive iodine therapy
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A 58-year-old woman, otherwise healthy with no significant medical history, undergoes a routine screening mammogram. The report notes a new cluster of pleomorphic microcalcifications in the upper outer quadrant of her left breast, measuring approximately 1.5 cm, classified as BI-RADS 4. Clinical examination reveals no palpable mass or skin changes. She has no family history of breast cancer. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this finding?

A. Fine needle aspiration cytology
B. Excisional biopsy
C. Repeat mammogram in 6 months
D. Stereotactic core needle biopsy
E. Ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents for routine mammography. She has no palpable lumps or skin changes. Her previous mammogram two years ago was normal. The current mammogram is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Excisional biopsy
B. Ultrasound of the breast
C. Reassurance and routine screening in 2 years
D. Stereotactic core biopsy
E. MRI of the breast
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of epigastric pain that is worse at night and occasionally wakes her from sleep. She describes the pain as a burning sensation that improves with food intake but returns a few hours later. She denies any weight loss, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. She has a history of intermittent use of ibuprofen for chronic back pain. On examination, she appears well-nourished, with normal vital signs and mild epigastric tenderness on palpation. A urea breath test is positive. What is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?

A. Prescribe an H2 receptor antagonist and advise dietary modifications
B. Recommend discontinuation of ibuprofen and start antacids
C. Advise lifestyle modifications and monitor symptoms
D. Refer for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
E. Initiate a proton pump inhibitor and test for Helicobacter pylori eradication
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A 45-year-old woman presents to the clinic with a 6-month history of fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold all the time. She also reports hair loss and constipation. On examination, her skin is dry, and her reflexes are delayed. Her blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg, and her heart rate is 60 bpm. Laboratory tests reveal a low free T4 and elevated TSH. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Hyperthyroidism
B. Primary hypothyroidism
C. Cushing's syndrome
D. Iron deficiency anemia
E. Subclinical hypothyroidism
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A 48-year-old woman, who emigrated from Southeast Asia 5 years ago, presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of a slowly enlarging lump in her neck. She reports mild fatigue and has lost approximately 3 kg unintentionally over the same period. She denies cough, fever, or night sweats. Her past medical history includes well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus managed with metformin. She is a non-smoker and drinks alcohol occasionally. On examination, she has a firm, non-tender, mobile mass measuring approximately 3x4 cm in the left anterior cervical chain. There are no other palpable lymph nodes. Chest auscultation is clear. Abdominal examination is unremarkable. Initial blood tests show a haemoglobin of 118 g/L (normal 120-150), white cell count 7.8 x 10^9/L (normal 4-11), neutrophils 4.5 x 10^9/L, lymphocytes 2.8 x 10^9/L, CRP 15 mg/L (normal <5). Liver and renal function tests are within normal limits. A neck ultrasound confirms a cluster of enlarged, hypoechoic lymph nodes in the left cervical region, the largest measuring 3.5 cm, with some central necrosis noted. A chest X-ray is clear. Given the clinical presentation and investigation findings, what is the most appropriate next diagnostic step?

A. Perform a Mantoux test and Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA)
B. Order a PET-CT scan to assess for other sites of disease or malignancy
C. Excisional biopsy of the lymph node for histopathology and culture
D. Fine needle aspiration of the lymph node for Ziehl-Neelsen stain, culture, and PCR
E. Initiate empirical treatment with isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol
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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 55-year-old woman presents with 2 days of worsening right upper quadrant pain radiating to her back, nausea, and subjective fever. On examination, she is tender in the RUQ. Vitals are stable. Labs show WCC 15.0, CRP 120. This image is obtained. Given the clinical context and imaging findings, what is the most appropriate definitive management strategy?

A. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube insertion
B. Medical management with IV antibiotics and analgesia only
C. Discharge home with oral antibiotics and outpatient follow-up
D. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 24-72 hours
E. Urgent ERCP to relieve obstruction
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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 62-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a 2-day history of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. She reports that the pain started gradually but has become increasingly severe and constant. She denies any fever or chills. Her past medical history is significant for hypertension and hyperlipidemia, both well-controlled with medications. On physical examination, she is afebrile, with a heart rate of 92 bpm, blood pressure of 140/85 mmHg, and an oxygen saturation of 98% on room air. Abdominal examination reveals marked tenderness to palpation in the right upper quadrant with guarding. Murphy's sign is positive. The provided image was obtained. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Initiate intravenous antibiotics and observe
B. Perform an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
C. Order a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan
D. Administer oral analgesics and discharge with outpatient follow-up
E. Surgical consultation for cholecystectomy
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A 62-year-old postmenopausal woman presents to her general practitioner with complaints of severe hot flashes that significantly affect her quality of life. She has a history of breast cancer diagnosed three years ago, which was treated with surgery and chemotherapy. Her cancer was estrogen receptor-positive. She is currently on tamoxifen as part of her ongoing treatment. She is concerned about the use of hormone replacement therapy due to her cancer history. What is the most appropriate management option for her hot flashes?

A. Conjugated estrogens
B. Clonidine
C. Paroxetine
D. Black cohosh
E. Gabapentin
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents for routine screening mammography. She has no palpable lumps or skin changes. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 68. The provided image is from her mammogram. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. MRI of the breast
B. Ultrasound of the breast
C. Reassurance and routine screening in one year
D. Stereotactic core biopsy
E. Excisional biopsy
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A 42-year-old woman, nulliparous, presents to her general practitioner with a palpable lump in her left breast, noticed two weeks ago. She reports some mild, intermittent tenderness associated with the lump, which she initially attributed to her menstrual cycle, but it has persisted. She has no significant family history of breast cancer. On examination, there is a 1.5 cm, firm, mobile lump in the upper outer quadrant. No skin changes or nipple discharge are noted. Axillary nodes are not palpable. She is otherwise well. Which of the following represents the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Reassurance and review in 3 months.
B. MRI of the breast.
C. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the lump.
D. Urgent mammography and ultrasound.
E. Referral to a specialist breast clinic for triple assessment.
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A 32-year-old woman presents to her GP with a 3-month history of fatigue, joint pain, and a facial rash that worsens with sun exposure. She also reports hair loss and oral ulcers. On examination, she has a malar rash and mild swelling of the small joints of her hands. Laboratory tests reveal a positive ANA and anti-dsDNA antibodies. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Dermatomyositis
B. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
C. Psoriatic arthritis
D. Sjogren's syndrome
E. Rheumatoid arthritis
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A 45-year-old woman has a mother diagnosed with colorectal cancer at age 55 and a maternal aunt with endometrial cancer at age 60. What is the most appropriate initial step regarding genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndrome?

A. Advise increased surveillance with colonoscopy every 5 years starting now.
B. Order germline testing for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 genes.
C. Referral to a familial cancer clinic for risk assessment and counselling.
D. Order tumour testing for microsatellite instability (MSI) and immunohistochemistry (IHC).
E. Reassure the patient that this family history is not strongly suggestive of a hereditary syndrome.
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 58-year-old woman presents for her scheduled screening mammogram. She reports no breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge. Her past medical history includes well-controlled hypertension and osteoarthritis. She has no known family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Physical examination reveals no palpable abnormalities in either breast or axillae. The mammogram is performed, and the image provided is a detail from the craniocaudal view of the left breast. Considering the clinical presentation and the findings demonstrated in the provided image, what is the most appropriate immediate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Repeat mammography in 6 months
B. Ultrasound of the breast
C. Excisional biopsy
D. Referral for genetic counselling and testing
E. Stereotactic core biopsy of the suspicious area
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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 55-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a 24-hour history of severe right upper quadrant pain radiating to the back, associated with nausea, vomiting, and subjective fever. On examination, she is tachycardic (HR 105 bpm) and febrile (38.5°C), with marked tenderness and guarding in the right upper quadrant. Blood tests reveal a white cell count of 15 x 10^9/L and C-reactive protein of 120 mg/L. Liver function tests, including bilirubin, are within normal limits. She is initiated on intravenous fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Imaging is obtained. Considering the patient's clinical status and the findings on the provided imaging, which of the following represents the most appropriate definitive management strategy?

A. Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (within 24-72 hours)
B. Delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (after 6-8 weeks)
C. Urgent ERCP to relieve obstruction
D. Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube insertion
E. Continue medical management with antibiotics and analgesia only
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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 58-year-old woman with cholangitis undergoes ERCP. The image is obtained. What intervention is MOST appropriate at this time?

A. Placement of a biliary stent
B. Observation and repeat ERCP in 24 hours
C. Ursodeoxycholic acid administration
D. Sphincterotomy and stone extraction
E. Cholecystectomy
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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 for evaluation. Her calcium is 2.9 mmol/L (2.1-2.6 mmol/L), PTH 110 pg/mL (10-65 pg/mL), and creatinine is normal. She denies neck pain or swelling. Given the imaging, what is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Cinacalcet administration
B. Vitamin D supplementation
C. Surgical exploration and parathyroidectomy
D. Observation with serial calcium monitoring
E. Bisphosphonate therapy
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 32-year-old woman presents to the ED with acute lower abdominal pain. She reports nausea but denies fever or vaginal bleeding. Her last menstrual period was 3 weeks ago. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is performed, the relevant image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Laparoscopic cystectomy
B. Expectant management with analgesia
C. CA-125 level
D. Immediate laparotomy
E. Oral contraceptive pills
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 55-year-old woman with no palpable breast lumps presents for a routine screening mammogram. The image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Stereotactic core biopsy
B. Ultrasound of the breast
C. Reassurance and routine follow-up in 1 year
D. Excisional biopsy
E. MRI of the breast
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of persistent cough and occasional wheezing. She has a history of asthma, which has been well-controlled with inhaled corticosteroids. She denies any recent respiratory infections or changes in her medication. On examination, her vital signs are normal, and there are scattered wheezes on auscultation. Spirometry shows a reduced FEV1/FVC ratio that improves significantly after bronchodilator administration. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A. Increase the dose of inhaled corticosteroids
B. Start oral corticosteroids
C. Refer for allergy testing
D. Add a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)
E. Prescribe a leukotriene receptor antagonist
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents for her routine mammogram. She has no personal or family history of breast cancer. She denies any breast pain, nipple discharge, or palpable lumps. Clinical breast exam is unremarkable. Her previous mammograms have been negative. The current mammogram reveals findings as shown in the image. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Ultrasound-guided core biopsy
B. MRI of the breast
C. Stereotactic core biopsy
D. Excisional biopsy
E. Reassurance and routine screening mammography in 1 year
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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 58-year-old woman presents with persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, and vague abdominal pain. Her serum calcium is 3.2 mmol/L (2.1-2.6 mmol/L), and PTH is 190 pg/mL (10-65 pg/mL). Renal function is normal. She denies any family history of endocrine disorders. Imaging studies are performed, as shown. Based on the clinical context and the imaging findings presented, which of the following represents the definitive management strategy for this patient?

A. Repeat serum calcium and PTH in three months.
B. Surgical excision of the identified lesion.
C. Order a skeletal survey to assess for osteitis fibrosa cystica.
D. Initiate treatment with cinacalcet and monitor calcium levels.
E. Perform a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the lesion.
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A 52-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with fatigue, increased thirst, and frequent urination over the past three months. She has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, for which she takes lisinopril and atorvastatin. Her BMI is 32 kg/m². On examination, her blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, and her heart rate is 78 bpm. Laboratory tests reveal a fasting plasma glucose of 8.5 mmol/L and an HbA1c of 7.2%. She is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step for this patient according to Australian guidelines?

A. Lifestyle modification including diet and exercise
B. Commencement of insulin therapy
C. Initiation of metformin therapy
D. Referral to an endocrinologist
E. Addition of a sulfonylurea
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A 45-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. On examination, she has dry skin and a delayed relaxation phase of deep tendon reflexes. Her TSH level is elevated, and free T4 is low. What is the most appropriate treatment for her condition?

A. Radioactive iodine therapy
B. Methimazole
C. Beta-blockers
D. Levothyroxine
E. Surgical thyroidectomy
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A 62-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of severe headache, nausea, and vomiting. She describes the headache as the worst she has ever experienced. Her medical history includes hypertension and hyperlipidemia, for which she is on regular medication. On examination, she is alert but in distress, with a blood pressure of 180/100 mmHg, heart rate of 90 bpm, and respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute. Neurological examination reveals neck stiffness but no focal neurological deficits. A CT scan of the head shows no acute intracranial hemorrhage. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Start intravenous antihypertensive therapy
B. Administer antiemetics and observe
C. MRI of the brain
D. Repeat CT scan with contrast
E. Lumbar puncture
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A 62-year-old woman with a 15-year history of type 2 diabetes mellitus presents to her general practitioner with complaints of worsening vision over the past six months. She also reports intermittent tingling and numbness in her feet, which has been progressively worsening. Her diabetes has been poorly controlled, with recent HbA1c levels consistently above 9%. She has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, both of which are managed with medication. On examination, her blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, and her BMI is 32 kg/m². Fundoscopic examination reveals microaneurysms and cotton wool spots. Urinalysis shows microalbuminuria. Which of the following interventions is most likely to address the underlying pathophysiological mechanism of her visual symptoms?

A. Optimizing glycemic control
B. Prescribing an ACE inhibitor
C. Recommending regular exercise
D. Starting a statin
E. Initiating aspirin therapy
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 32-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 6-month history of worsening dysmenorrhea and pelvic pain, particularly on the left side. She reports no fever, weight loss, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Her last menstrual period was 2 weeks ago and was normal. Physical examination reveals mild left adnexal tenderness. A CT scan of the pelvis was performed, the relevant image is shown. Given the clinical context and the imaging findings, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Refer for diagnostic laparoscopy
B. Prescribe NSAIDs and schedule a follow-up appointment in 3 months
C. Initiate combined oral contraceptive pill
D. Repeat pelvic ultrasound in 6-12 weeks
E. Order serum CA-125 levels
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A 45-year-old woman presents with a palpable lump in her left breast, noticed two weeks ago. She has no family history of breast cancer. On examination, the lump is firm, mobile, and approximately 2 cm. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

A. Reassurance and review in 3 months
B. Mammogram and ultrasound of the breast
C. Core biopsy
D. MRI of the breast
E. Fine needle aspiration cytology
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold all the time. She also reports constipation and dry skin. On examination, her heart rate is 55 bpm, and she has a delayed relaxation phase of her deep tendon reflexes. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Chronic fatigue syndrome
B. Iron deficiency anemia
C. Hypothyroidism
D. Cushing's syndrome
E. Depression
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A 60-year-old woman presents to her GP with a 3-month history of increasing fatigue and joint pain, particularly in her hands and knees. She also reports morning stiffness lasting over an hour. On examination, there is swelling and tenderness in the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. Blood tests reveal a positive rheumatoid factor and elevated C-reactive protein. What is the most appropriate initial treatment for her condition?

A. Hydroxychloroquine
B. Prednisone
C. Sulfasalazine
D. Methotrexate
E. Ibuprofen
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A 52-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with concerns about irregular menstrual bleeding over the past six months. She has a history of obesity, with a BMI of 32 kg/m², and was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. She reports that her periods have been irregular for the past few years, often skipping months. She is not currently on any hormone replacement therapy. On examination, she has no signs of hirsutism or virilization. Her blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, and her fasting blood glucose level is 8.5 mmol/L. Which of the following groups of women is most at risk for developing endometrial hyperplasia?

A. Women with a history of smoking and low BMI
B. Women with obesity and chronic anovulation
C. Women on combined oral contraceptive pills
D. Women who have undergone hysterectomy
E. Women with a history of regular menstrual cycles
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A 59-year-old lady with a past history of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and hypertension, and no smoking history, presents with a 3-month history of cough, blood-tinged sputum, night sweats, and a 5 kg weight loss. What are the most appropriate initial investigations for the likely diagnosis?

A. CXR + 3 AFB sputum samples
B. Full blood count and inflammatory markers.
C. Bronchoscopy with biopsy.
D. IGRA
E. CT chest
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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 with past colicky pain had this ultrasound. LFTs are normal. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. ERCP
B. Referral for elective cholecystectomy
C. MRCP
D. Ursodeoxycholic acid
E. Observation and repeat ultrasound in 6 months
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 58-year-old woman attends a routine mammography screening. She reports no palpable lumps, pain, or nipple discharge. Her family history is unremarkable. The current mammogram reveals new findings compared to her prior images from the last 5 years. The image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Reassurance and repeat mammogram in 1 year
B. MRI of the breast
C. Excisional biopsy
D. Stereotactic core biopsy
E. Ultrasound of the breast
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 35-year-old female presents with chronic pelvic pain. The provided CT was performed. What is the MOST appropriate initial management?

A. Laparoscopic cystectomy
B. CA-125 level
C. Trial of oral contraceptives
D. Observation with repeat imaging in 6 weeks
E. Immediate laparotomy
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

Mrs. Eleanor Vance, a 62-year-old retired teacher, presents for her routine biennial screening mammogram through the BreastScreen Australia program. She has no personal history of breast disease, and her family history is negative for breast or ovarian cancer in first-degree relatives. She is otherwise healthy, with a history of diet-controlled type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis managed with paracetamol. She denies any breast pain, lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes. Her last mammogram two years ago was reported as normal (BIRADS 1). Physical examination of both breasts and axillae is unremarkable. The current screening mammogram is performed. The image provided is a magnified view from the craniocaudal projection of the left breast, specifically highlighting an area that has been flagged for further assessment by the reporting radiologist due to a change from the previous study. Based on the appearance of the abnormality demonstrated in the provided image, which is the most appropriate method for obtaining a tissue diagnosis?

A. Surgical excisional biopsy with wire localisation as the initial diagnostic step
B. Ultrasound-guided core biopsy of the area corresponding to the mammographic finding
C. Follow-up mammography in 6 months to assess stability of the finding
D. Stereotactic core biopsy targeting the clustered microcalcifications
E. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the suspicious area
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A 62-year-old woman with a 15-year history of type 2 diabetes mellitus presents to the emergency department with confusion, polyuria, and polydipsia over the past three days. She has been non-compliant with her medications and diet. On examination, she is lethargic and dehydrated, with a blood pressure of 100/60 mmHg, heart rate of 110 bpm, and respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute. Laboratory tests reveal a blood glucose level of 38 mmol/L, serum sodium of 150 mmol/L, serum potassium of 4.0 mmol/L, serum bicarbonate of 22 mmol/L, and a serum osmolality of 340 mOsm/kg. Urinalysis shows no ketones. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step?

A. Intravenous potassium supplementation
B. Intravenous normal saline
C. Oral hypoglycemic agents
D. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate
E. Intravenous insulin infusion
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A 52-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with fatigue, increased thirst, and frequent urination over the past three months. She has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, managed with lisinopril and atorvastatin. Her BMI is 32 kg/m². On examination, her blood pressure is 140/85 mmHg, and her heart rate is 78 bpm. Laboratory tests reveal a fasting plasma glucose of 8.5 mmol/L and an HbA1c of 7.2%. She is concerned about her risk of complications and asks about the best initial management strategy. Considering Australian guidelines, what is the most appropriate next step in managing her condition?

A. Initiate metformin therapy
B. Advise lifestyle modifications only
C. Prescribe a sulfonylurea
D. Refer to an endocrinologist immediately
E. Start insulin therapy
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A 45-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of fever, productive cough with greenish sputum, and pleuritic chest pain. She has a history of asthma and is currently on salbutamol and fluticasone inhalers. On examination, her temperature is 38.5°C, respiratory rate is 24 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Auscultation reveals decreased breath sounds and crackles in the right lower lung field. A chest X-ray shows a right lower lobe consolidation. What is the most appropriate initial antibiotic therapy for this patient, considering Australian guidelines?

A. Doxycycline
B. Ceftriaxone
C. Amoxicillin-clavulanate
D. Azithromycin
E. Ciprofloxacin
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Mammogram microcalcifications in carcinoma in situ, CC, details
Image by Jmarchn CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 62-year-old woman presents for routine mammography. The image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. Reassurance and routine screening
B. Stereotactic core biopsy
C. Ultrasound of the breast
D. MRI of the breast
E. Excisional biopsy
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 32-year-old woman presents with pelvic pain and bloating. Her periods are regular. An abdominal CT scan is performed. Based on the image, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Oral contraceptive pills
B. CA-125 level
C. Repeat imaging in 6-12 weeks
D. Laparoscopic cystectomy
E. Referral to gynaecological oncology
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Ovarian Cyst
Image by James Heilman, MD CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

A 31-year-old woman presents with pelvic pain and bloating for 3 months. Her periods are regular. Pelvic exam reveals mild adnexal tenderness. A CT scan is performed, with a relevant image shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

A. CA-125 level
B. Reassurance and follow-up in 6-12 months
C. Immediate laparotomy
D. Oral contraceptive pills
E. Laparoscopic cystectomy
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A 58-year-old woman presents with a 7-year history of chronic cough productive of copious, often purulent, sputum, particularly noticeable in the mornings. She reports requiring 4-5 courses of antibiotics annually for exacerbations of her 'chronic bronchitis'. She is a non-smoker and has no significant past medical history other than childhood measles complicated by pneumonia. On examination, she has scattered coarse crackles bilaterally at the lung bases. Her oxygen saturation is 96% on room air. Spirometry performed 3 months ago showed FEV1 78% predicted, FVC 85% predicted, FEV1/FVC 0.75. A recent chest X-ray was reported as showing 'mild peribronchial thickening'. Given the clinical suspicion, what is the single most appropriate next investigation to establish the diagnosis?

A. Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage
B. Sputum culture for bacteria, fungi, and mycobacteria
C. Alpha-1 antitrypsin level
D. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest
E. Pulmonary function tests including lung volumes and diffusion capacity
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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 a routine health check. She reports intermittent episodes of colicky abdominal pain over the past year, but denies any current pain, jaundice, or fever. An abdominal ultrasound is performed, the image is shown. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

A. Administer ursodeoxycholic acid
B. Discharge with reassurance
C. Initiate a low-fat diet
D. Referral for elective cholecystectomy
E. Order a HIDA scan
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her GP with recurrent episodes of biliary colic. An ultrasound confirms the presence of multiple gallstones. She is otherwise healthy with no significant past medical history. After discussing management options, she opts for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step in her preoperative assessment, according to Australian guidelines?

A. Routine liver function tests (LFTs) and coagulation studies
B. Cardiologic assessment with ECG
C. Upper endoscopy to exclude other causes of abdominal pain
D. Hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan to assess gallbladder function
E. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) to rule out choledocholithiasis
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A 45-year-old woman presents to her general practitioner with a 3-month history of epigastric pain that is worse at night and occasionally wakes her from sleep. She describes the pain as a burning sensation that improves with food intake but worsens a few hours after eating. She denies any weight loss, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. She has a history of intermittent use of ibuprofen for chronic back pain. On examination, she appears well-nourished, with normal vital signs and mild epigastric tenderness on palpation. A urea breath test is positive. What is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?

A. Start a proton pump inhibitor and schedule a follow-up in 4 weeks
B. Initiate a proton pump inhibitor and eradicate Helicobacter pylori with a combination antibiotic therapy
C. Prescribe a histamine-2 receptor antagonist and advise discontinuation of ibuprofen
D. Refer for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis
E. Recommend dietary modifications and prescribe antacids as needed
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