ABPS ABPS Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation

Question 1

A patient's ECG shows a delta wave and shortened PR interval. Which condition does this pattern suggest?

Accepted Answer

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome

Answer

WPW syndrome results from an accessory conduction pathway (Bundle of Kent) that pre-excites the ventricles, causing the characteristic delta wave and short PR interval on ECG.

Question 2

Which finding on urinalysis is most specific for a urinary tract infection caused by bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Nitrites and leukocyte esterase

Answer

Nitrites (produced by gram-negative bacteria reducing nitrates) combined with leukocyte esterase (indicating pyuria) together have high specificity for bacterial UTI.

Question 3

A chest X-ray shows a unilateral 'ground-glass opacity' pattern in an immunocompromised patient. Which pathogen should be highest on the differential?

Accepted Answer

Pneumocystis jirovecii (PCP)

Answer

Bilateral perihilar ground-glass opacities on CXR in an immunocompromised host (especially HIV with low CD4) are classic for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia.

Question 4

Which serum marker is most useful for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma?

Accepted Answer

AFP (alpha-fetoprotein)

Answer

AFP is produced by hepatocellular carcinoma cells and is used both as a diagnostic marker and to monitor treatment response and recurrence.

Question 5

An ABG shows pH 7.28, PaCO2 55 mmHg, HCO3 24 mEq/L. How would you classify this acid-base disorder?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory acidosis (uncompensated)

Answer

The low pH with elevated PaCO2 and normal bicarbonate indicates acute (uncompensated) respiratory acidosis, consistent with hypoventilation.

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

(ABPS) American Board of Physician Specialties Certification Practice Test

ABPS ABPS Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation