GI Disorders & Diseases 2

Question 1

Which complication of cirrhosis is characterized by bacterial infection of ascitic fluid without an obvious intra-abdominal source?

Accepted Answer

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Answer

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a serious complication of cirrhosis involving infection of ascitic fluid, typically diagnosed when ascitic fluid PMN count exceeds 250 cells/mm³.

Question 2

A patient presents with dysphagia to both solids and liquids from the start. Barium swallow shows a 'bird-beak' appearance at the lower esophagus. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Achalasia

Answer

Achalasia presents with dysphagia to both solids and liquids and shows a classic 'bird-beak' narrowing on barium swallow due to failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax.

Question 3

Which type of inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus?

Accepted Answer

Crohn's disease

Answer

Crohn's disease involves transmural inflammation with skip lesions and can affect any segment of the GI tract, distinguishing it from ulcerative colitis which is limited to the colon mucosa.

Question 4

A patient with long-standing GERD develops Barrett's esophagus. Which cell type replaces the normal squamous epithelium in this condition?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal metaplastic columnar epithelium

Answer

Barrett's esophagus is defined by replacement of normal squamous epithelium with specialized intestinal metaplastic columnar epithelium containing goblet cells, which increases adenocarcinoma risk.

Question 5

What is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Gallstones

Answer

Gallstones are the leading cause of acute pancreatitis in the US, accounting for approximately 40-70% of cases, followed by alcohol use.

(GI) Gastrointestinal Practice Test

(GI) Gastrointestinal Practice Test

GI Disorders & Diseases 2