Q- Normal iron studies most likely suggest which one of the following types of anemia?
A- Iron deficiency anemia
B- Sideroblastic anemia
C- Thalassemia
C- Thalassemia- It is a genetic disease that shows normal iron studies. Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by low serum iron level. Sideroblastic anemia is the only type of microcytic anemia that shows high serum iron level.
Q- A 35-year-old man complains of progressive dysphagia for both solids and liquids for 3 months. Which one of the following is the most accurate test to confirm a diagnosis of achalasia in this patient?
A- Barium esophagram
B- Chest x-ray
C- Manometry
D- Upper endoscopy
C- Manometry- It is the most accurate test to diagnose achalasia. Barium esophagram will show a bird’s beak but it is not the most accurate test. Upper endoscopy is most likely useful to exclude malignancy. Chest x-ray will show widening of the esophagus.
Q- Which one of the following most likely benefits an asymptomatic patient with breast cancer who has a significant family history?
A- Anastrozole
B- BRCA testing
C- Dietary modification
D- Tamoxifen
D- Tamoxifen- It is a selective estrogen receptor modulator and results in 50-65% reduction of in these cases of breast cancer. BRCA testing is not a beneficial screening test. Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor which is useful in preventing metastases in a diagnosed case of breast cancer.
You’re so welcome Dr. Martin.
Many thanks Dr.