ABPS ABPS Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation 2

Question 1

Which finding on a complete blood count (CBC) is most characteristic of iron deficiency anemia?

Accepted Answer

Microcytic, hypochromic red cells with low ferritin

Answer

Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by microcytic (low MCV) and hypochromic (low MCHC) red blood cells, accompanied by depleted iron stores (low ferritin).

Question 2

A patient has an elevated serum creatinine and a urine sodium of 8 mEq/L with a fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa) of 0.4%. What type of acute kidney injury does this suggest?

Accepted Answer

Pre-renal azotemia

Answer

A FeNa < 1% and low urine sodium indicate the kidney is avidly retaining sodium, consistent with pre-renal azotemia due to decreased renal perfusion.

Question 3

Which imaging modality is preferred for initial evaluation of acute appendicitis in a pregnant patient?

Accepted Answer

MRI abdomen without contrast

Answer

MRI is preferred in pregnant patients for suspected appendicitis because it avoids ionizing radiation while providing excellent soft tissue detail for diagnosis.

Question 4

A 24-hour urine protein collection shows 4.5 grams of protein. Combined with hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema, which syndrome is this diagnostic of?

Accepted Answer

Nephrotic syndrome

Answer

Nephrotic syndrome is defined by proteinuria > 3.5 g/day, hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia due to massive glomerular protein loss.

Question 5

Which test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing Helicobacter pylori infection in a patient currently taking a proton pump inhibitor?

Accepted Answer

Upper endoscopy with biopsy (CLO test)

Answer

In patients on PPIs (which can cause false-negative non-invasive tests), upper endoscopy with biopsy and CLO (rapid urease) testing or histology is the most accurate diagnostic approach.

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

ABPS ABPS Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation 2