Physician Assistant Physician Assistant Neurological System Disorders

Question 1

A 65-year-old male presents with sudden onset right-sided facial droop, arm weakness, and aphasia that resolved completely within 45 minutes. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Answer

Ischemic stroke

Answer

Complex migraine

Answer

Todd's paralysis

Question 2

Which of the following is the most common type of stroke?

Accepted Answer

Ischemic stroke

Answer

Hemorrhagic stroke

Answer

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answer

Subdural hematoma

Question 3

A patient presents with thunderclap headache described as 'the worst headache of my life.' CT head is negative. What is the next most appropriate step?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar puncture to check for xanthochromia

Answer

Discharge with analgesics

Answer

MRI brain without contrast

Answer

EEG

Question 4

What is the time window for administration of IV alteplase (tPA) in acute ischemic stroke?

Accepted Answer

Within 3–4.5 hours of symptom onset

Answer

Within 1 hour of symptom onset

Answer

Within 6 hours of symptom onset

Answer

Within 12 hours of symptom onset

Question 5

Which of the following is a contraindication to IV tPA in acute ischemic stroke?

Accepted Answer

Ischemic stroke or head trauma within the past 3 months

Answer

Age over 65

Answer

Blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg

Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Question 6

A 25-year-old woman presents with optic neuritis and new-onset sensory disturbances in her extremities. MRI shows periventricular white matter lesions. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis

Answer

Neuromyelitis optica

Answer

CNS vasculitis

Answer

Vitamin B12 deficiency