Musculoskeletal and Orthopedic Conditions Flashcards

Which joint is most commonly affected in rheumatoid arthritis that is rarely involved in osteoarthritis?

Answer: MCP joints

Rheumatoid arthritis classically involves the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints, sparing the DIP joints.

A patient presents with positive Phalen's and Tinel's signs at the wrist. The most likely diagnosis is:

Answer: Carpal tunnel syndrome

Phalen's test and Tinel's sign at the carpal tunnel are classic provocative tests for median nerve compression (carpal tunnel syndrome).

Which of the following is the most appropriate first-line treatment for fibromyalgia?

Answer: Aerobic exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy

Multimodal management including aerobic exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective first-line treatment for fibromyalgia.

A 55-year-old woman presents with pain and stiffness of the shoulder girdle and hip girdle, ESR 80 mm/hr, and CRP elevated. The most likely diagnosis is:

Answer: Polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica presents with bilateral shoulder and hip girdle pain, morning stiffness, and markedly elevated inflammatory markers in patients over 50.

What is the Ottawa Knee Rule used for?

Answer: Determining the need for knee X-ray after injury

The Ottawa Knee Rules identify clinical criteria that predict which patients with acute knee injury require radiographic evaluation to rule out fracture.

Which test is most sensitive for diagnosing a meniscal tear?

Answer: MRI of the knee

MRI has approximately 90% sensitivity for meniscal tears and is the preferred imaging test when clinical suspicion is high.