ABFAS ABFAS Pathology and Diagnosis

Question 1

Charcot neuroarthropathy most commonly affects which joint region of the foot?

Accepted Answer

Tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc) joints

Answer

Charcot neuroarthropathy most commonly affects the tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc) joint complex, accounting for approximately 30–40% of cases.

Question 2

Which radiographic sign indicates avascular necrosis of the talus following a fracture?

Accepted Answer

Hawkins sign (subchondral lucency at 6–8 weeks)

Answer

The Hawkins sign—subchondral lucency seen at 6–8 weeks post-fracture—indicates disuse osteopenia and is a positive prognostic sign that blood supply is intact.

Question 3

Plantar fasciitis is most commonly associated with pain at which location?

Accepted Answer

Medial calcaneal tubercle

Answer

Plantar fasciitis classically presents with pain at the medial calcaneal tubercle, the proximal attachment of the plantar fascia.

Question 4

Which skin lesion on the plantar foot is characterized by interrupted skin lines and central black dots?

Accepted Answer

Verruca plantaris (plantar wart)

Answer

Verruca plantaris interrupts normal skin lines (dermatoglyphics) and contains thrombosed capillaries appearing as central black dots, distinguishing it from callus.

Question 5

Morton's neuroma (interdigital neuroma) most commonly occurs in which web space?

Accepted Answer

Third web space

Answer

Morton's neuroma most commonly occurs in the third web space (between the third and fourth metatarsals), followed by the second web space.

(ABFAS) American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Practice Test

(ABFAS) American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Practice Test

ABFAS ABFAS Pathology and Diagnosis