Cardiology Practice Questions

Q: In which electrolyte abnormality, the following ECG finding is seen?

Hypokalemia. ***Hypokalemia*** - Classic ECG findings include **prominent U waves**, **flattened T waves**, and **ST segment depression**. - These changes occur due to altered **cardiac repolarization** when serum potassium falls below 3.5 mEq/L. *Hyponatremia* - **Sodium abnormalities** primarily affect the **central nervous system** causing confusion and seizures. - Does not produce characteristic **ECG changes** as sodium doesn't directly influence cardiac electrical activity. *Hypernatremia* - Causes **neurological symptoms** like altered mental status and hyperreflexia due to cellular dehydration. - Like hyponatremia, it does not cause specific **ECG abnormalities** since sodium doesn't affect cardiac conduction. *Hyperkalemia* - Produces **tall, peaked T waves** in early stages and **widened QRS complexes** in severe cases. - Can progress to a **sine wave pattern** and cardiac arrest, distinctly different from hypokalemia findings.

Q: Intermittent claudication is characterized by which of the following?

Most common in the calf region. **Explanation:** Intermittent claudication is the hallmark symptom of **Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)**, resulting from exercise-induced muscle ischemia due to fixed arterial stenosis [1]. **1. Why Option A is Correct:** The pain of claudication typically occurs in the muscle group **distal** to the site of arterial occlusion [1]. Since the **superficial femoral artery** is the most common site of atherosclerotic involvement in PAD, the **calf muscles** (gastrocnemius) are the most frequently affected site [1]. **2. Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **Option B (Occurs at rest):** By definition, claudication is induced by exercise and relieved by rest (usually within 10 minutes) [1]. Pain at rest indicates **Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI)**, a more advanced stage of PAD (Fontaine Stage III/IV) [2]. * **Option C (Inconsistent distance):** True claudication is characterized by a **fixed/consistent claudication distance**. The patient can typically predict exactly how far they can walk before the pain starts. Inconsistency suggests "Pseudoclaudication" (e.g., Lumbar Canal Stenosis). * **Option D (Pain is positional):** Claudication pain is related to **metabolic demand (exertion)**, not posture. Positional relief (like leaning forward) is characteristic of neurogenic claudication, not vascular claudication. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Fontaine Classification:** Stage I (Asymptomatic), Stage II (Claudication), Stage III (Rest pain), Stage IV (Ulcer/Gangrene). * **Leriche Syndrome:** Triad of claudication (hip/buttock), impotence, and absent femoral pulses (due to Aorto-iliac occlusion). * **Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI):** The best initial diagnostic test. ABI < 0.9 is diagnostic of PAD; < 0.4 indicates severe disease/rest pain. * **Management:** Smoking cessation is the most important modifiable risk factor. **Cilostazol** (PDE-3 inhibitor) is the drug of choice for symptomatic relief.

Q: Accelerated Idioventricular Rhythm (AIVR) is the most common arrhythmia associated with:

Myocardial Reperfusion. **Explanation:** **Accelerated Idioventricular Rhythm (AIVR)**, also known as "slow ventricular tachycardia," is a ventricular rhythm with a rate typically between 60 and 110 beats per minute. **1. Why Myocardial Reperfusion is Correct:** AIVR is the most characteristic arrhythmia seen following the restoration of blood flow to an ischemic myocardium (reperfusion). It is frequently observed after successful thrombolysis or Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) in patients with acute MI. The underlying mechanism is increased automaticity of the Purkinje fibers, triggered by free radical release and calcium overload during the reperfusion phase. It is generally considered a **benign, self-limiting sign** of successful reperfusion and rarely requires treatment [1]. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Dilated Cardiomyopathy:** While patients with DCM are prone to various arrhythmias (like PVCs, VT, or AFib) due to structural remodeling, AIVR is not the most common or characteristic finding. * **C. Digitalis Intoxication:** Digoxin toxicity typically presents with increased automaticity and decreased conduction. Common arrhythmias include PVCs (most common), Bidirectional VT, and Paroxysmal Atrial Tachycardia with AV block. * **D. Myocarditis:** This usually presents with sinus tachycardia, non-specific ST-T changes, or various degrees of heart block, but AIVR is not the primary association. **3. NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Rate:** 60–110 bpm (distinguishes it from Ventricular Escape Rhythm 120 bpm). * **ECG Features:** Wide QRS complexes, regular rhythm, and frequent "fusion beats" or "capture beats" at the onset/offset. * **Clinical Significance:** In the setting of MI, it is a **"Reperfusion Arrhythmia."** [1]. * **Management:** Observation only. Do not suppress with anti-arrhythmics (like Lidocaine), as it may lead to asystole by suppressing the only functioning pacemaker.

Q: Which of the following conditions is associated with a giant 'a' wave in the jugular venous pressure?

Tricuspid stenosis. ### Explanation The **'a' wave** in the jugular venous pulse (JVP) represents **right atrial contraction**. It occurs at the end of diastole, forcing the final volume of blood into the right ventricle. **1. Why Tricuspid Stenosis is Correct:** In **Tricuspid Stenosis**, there is a mechanical obstruction to blood flow from the right atrium (RA) to the right ventricle (RV). To overcome this resistance and fill the ventricle, the RA must contract more forcefully. This increased pressure during atrial systole is reflected back into the jugular vein as a **giant (prominent) 'a' wave**. Other conditions causing giant 'a' waves include Pulmonary Stenosis and Pulmonary Hypertension (due to decreased RV compliance). **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Atrial Septal Defect (ASD):** Typically presents with a large 'a' wave only if there is associated pulmonary hypertension. Classically, ASD is associated with a **prominent 'v' wave** or equalized 'a' and 'v' waves due to the large volume shunting into the RA [1]. * **SVC Obstruction:** In this condition, the JVP is **non-pulsatile**. The physical obstruction prevents the transmission of atrial pressure changes to the internal jugular vein. * **Complete Heart Block:** This is associated with **"Cannon" 'a' waves**. These occur sporadically when the RA contracts against a closed tricuspid valve (AV dissociation). Unlike the "giant" 'a' waves of stenosis, cannon waves are intermittent and much more dramatic. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Absent 'a' wave:** Atrial Fibrillation (no coordinated atrial contraction). * **Giant 'a' wave:** Tricuspid Stenosis, Pulmonary Stenosis, Right Heart Failure. * **Cannon 'a' wave:** Complete Heart Block, Ventricular Tachycardia, Junctional Rhythms. * **Prominent 'v' wave:** Tricuspid Regurgitation (Lancisi’s sign) [2]. * **Steep 'y' descent:** Constrictive Pericarditis (Friedreich’s sign) and Tricuspid Regurgitation.

Q: A patient presents with a new systolic murmur in the left lower sternum following a myocardial infarction. Which of the following is the LEAST likely cause?

Complete heart block. ### Explanation The correct answer is **A. Complete heart block**. **Why it is the LEAST likely cause:** Complete heart block (CHB) is a conduction abnormality, not a structural mechanical defect. While CHB is a known complication of myocardial infarction (especially inferior wall MI), it typically presents with **bradycardia and cannon 'a' waves** in the jugular venous pulse, rather than a new systolic murmur. A systolic murmur indicates turbulent blood flow during ventricular contraction, which is not a characteristic feature of an isolated conduction block. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **B. Rupture of the interventricular septum (VSD):** This is a classic post-MI mechanical complication (usually 3–5 days post-MI). It produces a harsh, pansystolic murmur loudest at the **left lower sternal border**, often accompanied by a palpable thrill. * **C. Papillary muscle dysfunction:** Ischemia or rupture of the papillary muscles leads to **Mitral Regurgitation (MR)**. This presents as a systolic murmur, typically loudest at the apex but often radiating to the axilla or heard along the left sternal border. * **D. Ischemic cardiomyopathy:** Severe ischemia can lead to ventricular dilatation. This dilatation stretches the mitral valve annulus, resulting in **functional mitral regurgitation**, which manifests as a systolic murmur. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **VSD vs. MR:** Both present with post-MI systolic murmurs. If the murmur is at the **left sternal border with a thrill**, think VSD. If it is at the **apex radiating to the axilla**, think Papillary Muscle Rupture. * **Right Heart Catheterization:** In VSD, there is a **"step-up" in oxygen saturation** from the right atrium to the right ventricle. * **Timing:** Most mechanical complications (Septal rupture, Papillary rupture, Free wall rupture) occur within **3 to 7 days** post-MI.

Q: Cardiac tamponade is characterized by all of the following except:

Irregular pulse. Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition caused by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, leading to increased intrapericardial pressure and impaired diastolic filling of the heart [1]. ### **Explanation of Options** * **A. Irregular pulse (Correct Answer):** Cardiac tamponade typically presents with a **regular tachycardia** as a compensatory mechanism to maintain cardiac output in the face of low stroke volume. An irregular pulse is not a characteristic feature; it is more commonly associated with conditions like atrial fibrillation or premature beats. * **B. Hypotension:** This is a hallmark of tamponade. Increased intrapericardial pressure prevents the heart from filling, leading to decreased stroke volume and a subsequent drop in systemic blood pressure [1]. * **C. Reduced pulse pressure:** As stroke volume falls, the systolic blood pressure drops significantly while diastolic pressure is maintained by compensatory peripheral vasoconstriction, leading to a "narrow" or reduced pulse pressure [2]. * **D. Pulsus paradoxus:** This is a classic sign defined as an exaggerated drop in systolic blood pressure (>10 mmHg) during inspiration. In tamponade, the rigid pericardium causes the interventricular septum to bulge into the left ventricle during inspiration (ventricular interdependence), further reducing left-sided filling and output. ### **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG** * **Beck’s Triad:** Hypotension, Jugular Venous Distension (JVD), and Muffled Heart Sounds. * **ECG Findings:** Low voltage QRS complexes and **Electrical Alternans** (beat-to-beat variation in QRS amplitude due to the heart "swinging" in fluid) [1]. * **JVP Pattern:** Characterized by a **prominent 'x' descent** and an **absent 'y' descent** (due to restricted diastolic filling). * **Treatment:** Immediate **pericardiocentesis** is the definitive management [1].

Q: Which of the following statements is not true about Brugada syndrome?

A pacemaker is considered the treatment of choice.. ### Explanation **Brugada Syndrome** is an autosomal dominant genetic arrhythmia syndrome characterized by a specific ECG pattern and an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in the absence of structural heart disease. **Why Option D is the correct (False) statement:** The treatment of choice for symptomatic Brugada syndrome or those at high risk for SCD is an **Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)**, not a pacemaker. While pacemakers manage bradyarrhythmias, they cannot terminate the polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation (VF) that causes death in these patients. **Analysis of other options:** * **Option A:** It is primarily a "sodium channelopathy." Approximately 20–30% of cases are linked to a mutation in the **SCN5A gene**, which encodes the alpha subunit of the cardiac sodium channel. * **Option B:** The syndrome is characterized by a "pseudo-right bundle branch block" and **ST-segment elevation in leads V1–V3**. Many patients remain asymptomatic until a lethal arrhythmic event occurs, often during sleep or fever. * **Option C:** It is a leading cause of **Sudden Cardiac Death** in young males, particularly those of Southeast Asian descent (where it is sometimes called *Lai Tai* or *Bangungut*). **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **ECG Pattern (Type 1):** "Coved-type" ST elevation ≥2mm followed by a negative T-wave in V1-V3. 2. **Triggers:** Fever, alcohol, and certain drugs (e.g., Class IA/IC antiarrhythmics, TCAs) can unmask the ECG pattern. 3. **Provocative Testing:** If the ECG is equivocal, sodium channel blockers like **Ajmaline** or **Procainamide** are used to unmask the pattern. 4. **Pharmacotherapy:** **Quinidine** (an Ito channel blocker) may be used as adjunctive therapy or in patients where an ICD is not feasible.

Question 1

In which electrolyte abnormality, the following ECG finding is seen?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Hyponatremia

Answer

Hypernatremia

Answer

Hyperkalemia

Question 2

A 55-year-old man presents with gradually increasing shortness of breath and leg swelling over the past month. He has orthopnea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. His medical history includes hypercholesterolemia treated with simvastatin and hypertension treated with hydrochlorothiazide. Current blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg. Physical examination reveals mild jugular venous distension, bibasilar crackles, an S3 gallop, and minimal pedal edema. Echocardiography shows a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 40% without segmental wall-motion abnormality. The patient wishes to minimize his medication regimen. What change in his management would you recommend?

Accepted Answer

Add an ACE inhibitor and a beta-blocker

Answer

Add spironolactone

Answer

Add digoxin

Answer

Add a calcium-channel blocker

Question 3

Intermittent claudication is characterized by which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Most common in the calf region

Answer

Occurs at rest

Answer

The claudication distance is not consistent for an individual

Answer

Pain is positional

Question 4

Which of the following deficiencies does not cause dilated cardiomyopathy?

Accepted Answer

Manganese

Answer

Calcium

Answer

Selenium

Answer

Carnitine

Question 5

Accelerated Idioventricular Rhythm (AIVR) is the most common arrhythmia associated with:

Accepted Answer

Myocardial Reperfusion

Answer

Dilated cardiomyopathy

Answer

Digitalis intoxication

Answer

Myocarditis

Question 6

Which of the following conditions is associated with a giant 'a' wave in the jugular venous pressure?

Accepted Answer

Tricuspid stenosis

Answer

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

Answer

Superior Vena Cava (SVC) obstruction

Answer

Complete heart block

Question 7

A patient presents with a new systolic murmur in the left lower sternum following a myocardial infarction. Which of the following is the LEAST likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Complete heart block

Answer

Rupture of the interventricular septum

Answer

Papillary muscle dysfunction

Answer

Ischemic cardiomyopathy

Question 8

Cardiac tamponade is characterized by all of the following except:

Accepted Answer

Irregular pulse

Answer

Hypotension

Answer

Reduced pulse pressure

Answer

Pulsus paradoxus

Question 9

Which of the following statements is not true about Brugada syndrome?

Accepted Answer

A pacemaker is considered the treatment of choice.

Answer

It is associated with a defect in the SCN5A gene.

Answer

It is characterized by asymptomatic ST segment elevation.

Answer

It can lead to sudden cardiac death.

Question 10

A 60-year-old female is undergoing PCI after a coronary narrowing was found on a previous diagnostic angiography. She is known to have coronary vessels prone to spasm. What is the most appropriate management plan when her systolic blood pressure suddenly drops to 70mmHg during the procedure, accompanied by pallor, clamminess, and light-headedness? Her pulse rate is 70bpm and regular.

Accepted Answer

Administer metaraminol

Answer

Administer a 150J defibrillator shock

Answer

Administer atropine

Answer

Administer adrenaline

Cardiology — MCQs

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