ABPath Pathology MCQ

Question 1

Which of the following is a common histologic feature of chronic inflammation?

Accepted Answer

Granuloma formation

Answer

Chronic inflammation is characterized by the prolonged presence of inflammatory cells, tissue destruction, and attempts at repair. Granuloma formation, a specific type of chronic inflammation, involves aggregates of activated macrophages (epithelioid cells) often surrounded by lymphocytes, and is a hallmark response to persistent irritants or certain microorganisms like Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While neutrophils are key in acute inflammation, granulomas are distinctive for chronic processes.

Question 2

What is the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia worldwide?

Accepted Answer

Blood loss

Answer

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin. Globally, chronic blood loss, particularly from the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., peptic ulcers, colon cancer, hookworm infection) or gynecological sources (e.g., menorrhagia), is the predominant cause. This consistent depletion of iron stores through blood loss is the leading factor worldwide.

Question 3

In which condition would you most likely find hyperkalemia?

Accepted Answer

Chronic kidney disease

Answer

Hyperkalemia, an elevated potassium level in the blood, is commonly seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidneys are primarily responsible for excreting excess potassium from the body. As kidney function declines in CKD, the ability to excrete potassium is impaired, leading to its accumulation in the bloodstream.

Question 4

What is the key difference between malignant and benign tumors?

Accepted Answer

Benign tumors grow slowly, while malignant tumors grow rapidly

Answer

The fundamental difference between benign and malignant tumors lies in their biological behavior and potential for harm. Malignant tumors (cancers) exhibit uncontrolled, rapid growth, invade surrounding tissues, and have the capacity to metastasize to distant sites. Benign tumors, in contrast, typically grow slowly, remain localized, and do not invade or metastasize.

Question 5

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of retinoblastoma on histopathology?

Accepted Answer

Flexner-Wintersteiner rosettes

Answer

Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the retina, primarily affecting young children. On histopathological examination, a characteristic feature is the presence of Flexner-Wintersteiner rosettes. These are true rosettes formed by columnar tumor cells arranged around a central lumen, representing an attempt at photoreceptor differentiation, and are highly specific for retinoblastoma.

American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test

American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test

ABPath Pathology MCQ