Q- Which one of the following laboratory tests can differentiate primary aldosteronism from secondary aldosteronism?
A- Plasma aldosterone concentration
B- Plasma renin activity
C- Serum cortisol
D- Serum sodium
B- Plasma renin activity- Measuring plasma renin activity and calculating the aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) is the best approach to distinguish between primary and secondary aldosteronism. In primary aldosteronism, renin is suppressed due to feedback inhibition while ARR is high. In secondary aldosteronism, renin is increased while ARR is normal or low.
Q- Which one of the following is the most frequent form of pericarditis associated with myocardial infarction?
A- Constrictive pericarditis
B- Fibrinous pericarditis
C- Hemorrhagic pericarditis
D- Purulent pericarditis
B- Fibrinous pericarditis- It is the most common pericarditis associated with MI. It occurs within the first few days after a transmural MI due to inflammation extending to the pericardial surface. It presents with sharp chest pain, worse with inspiration or lying flat, and may be accompanied by a pericardial friction rub on auscultation.
Q- Which of the following dermal conditions is a blistering disease that develops in individuals allergic to gliadin, a gluten component?
A- Bullous pemphigoid
B- Dermatitis herpetiformis
C- Erythema multiforme
D- Pemphigus vulgaris
B- Dermatitis herpetiformis- It is a chronic blistering skin condition associated with celiac disease, which is caused by an immune reaction to gliadin, a component of gluten. It presents as intensely pruritic papules and vesicles, commonly on the extensor surfaces (elbows, knees, buttocks, back).
