ABPN American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology 2

Question 1

Which neurotransmitter is most implicated in the pathophysiology of Parkinson disease?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Parkinson disease results from degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra.

Question 2

A patient presents with sudden right-sided weakness and expressive aphasia. Which arterial territory is most likely involved?

Accepted Answer

Left middle cerebral artery

Answer

Broca (expressive) aphasia with right hemiparesis localizes to the left MCA territory.

Question 3

First-line pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder is typically which class?

Accepted Answer

SSRIs

Answer

SSRIs are first-line for GAD due to efficacy and lower dependence risk than benzodiazepines.

Question 4

Which finding is characteristic of neuroleptic malignant syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Lead-pipe rigidity and hyperthermia

Answer

NMS features muscular rigidity, hyperthermia, autonomic instability, and elevated CK.

Question 5

The EEG hallmark of absence seizures is:

Accepted Answer

3-Hz generalized spike-and-wave

Answer

Absence seizures classically produce 3-Hz generalized spike-and-wave discharges.

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Practice Test