FPGEE Pathophysiology

Question 1

Which pathophysiological mechanism primarily underlies the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Insulin resistance combined with progressive beta-cell dysfunction

Answer

Type 2 DM is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and gradual decline in pancreatic beta-cell secretory capacity, unlike the autoimmune destruction seen in type 1 DM.

Question 2

In heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), which compensatory mechanism initially helps maintain cardiac output but ultimately worsens cardiac remodeling?

Accepted Answer

Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)

Answer

RAAS activation causes fluid retention and vasoconstriction that initially compensates for low output, but chronic activation promotes maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.

Question 3

A patient with chronic kidney disease develops anemia. What is the primary pathophysiological reason?

Accepted Answer

Decreased erythropoietin production by the diseased kidneys

Answer

The peritubular interstitial cells of the kidney are the primary source of erythropoietin; CKD destroys these cells, reducing EPO production and thereby red cell production.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of asthma?

Accepted Answer

Reversible airway inflammation and bronchospasm driven by Th2-mediated hypersensitivity

Answer

Asthma involves a Th2 lymphocyte-driven inflammatory response with eosinophil recruitment, mast cell degranulation, and reversible bronchoconstriction, distinguishing it from COPD.

Question 5

In atherosclerosis, which event is considered the earliest pathological change in the arterial wall?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of oxidized LDL and foam cell formation in the intima

Answer

The fatty streak, formed by oxidized LDL being engulfed by macrophages to form foam cells in the subintimal space, is the earliest lesion in atherosclerosis.

FPGEE Exam Practice Test

FPGEE Exam Practice Test

FPGEE Pathophysiology