Gastroenterology — MCQs
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In children, the most common type of polyp is -
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis typically presents within how many months of birth:
A 7-year-old girl passed 15 stools in the last 24 hours and vomited thrice in the last 4 hours. She is irritable but drinking fluids. What is the optimal therapy?
In pediatrics, differential diagnoses for acute appendicitis include all EXCEPT:
Congenital pyloric stenosis presents with:
Which of the following is an inflammatory bowel disease in children?
Gallstones in children is caused by all EXCEPT:
The most common pathogenic organism causing pyogenic liver abscess in children is:
In a child with acute liver failure, the most important abnormal serum biochemical test that indicates poor prognosis is?
A 12 year old girl has history of recurrent bulky stools and abdominal pain since 3 year of age. She has moderate pallor and her weight and height are below the 3rd percentile. Which of the following is the most appropriate investigation to make a specific diagnosis?
Gastroenterology Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 281: In children, the most common type of polyp is -
- A. Familial polyposis
- B. Multiple adenomatous polyp
- C. Solitary polyp
- D. Juvenile polyp (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Juvenile polyp*** - **Juvenile polyps** are the most common type of colorectal polyp found in children, typically occurring in the **rectum** or **sigmoid colon**. - They are generally **benign** and non-neoplastic, characterized by an abundance of **mucus**, cystically dilated glands, and an inflammatory infiltrate. *Familial polyposis* - **Familial polyposis**, or **Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)**, is a genetic condition characterized by hundreds to thousands of adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum, with a high risk of **colorectal cancer**. - While it can manifest in childhood or adolescence, it is far less common than juvenile polyps in the general pediatric population. *Multiple adenomatous polyp* - **Multiple adenomatous polyps** are primarily seen in adults and are associated with an increased risk of **malignant transformation**. - While children can develop adenomatous polyps, they are rare and not the most common type of polyp found in the pediatric age group. *Solitary polyp* - The term **solitary polyp** describes the number, not the type, of polyp. While a juvenile polyp can be solitary, this option does not specify the histological nature, which is crucial for diagnosis in children.
Question 282: Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis typically presents within how many months of birth:
- A. Six
- B. Two
- C. Three
- D. One (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***One*** - **Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis** typically begins to manifest at **3 to 6 weeks of age**, with symptoms commonly starting within the first month of life. - The thickened pylorus leads to progressive gastric outlet obstruction, causing **projectile non-bilious vomiting** that typically starts around 3-4 weeks of age. - Peak incidence occurs around **3-5 weeks**, making the first month the typical presentation period. - Classic signs include a **palpable olive-shaped mass** in the right upper quadrant and **visible gastric peristaltic waves**. *Two* - While some cases may present during the second month, the **peak incidence** occurs earlier, typically by 3-5 weeks of age. - Most infants are already symptomatic before reaching two months of age. - Delayed presentation beyond 6 weeks is less common. *Three* - Three months is beyond the typical presentation window for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. - The **mean age of onset** is around one month, not three months. - Presentation at three months would be considered atypical and should prompt consideration of alternative diagnoses. *Six* - Six months is far too late for typical hypertrophic pyloric stenosis presentation. - The condition characteristically presents in the **neonatal period** and early infancy, not at six months. - Recurrent vomiting at six months would require evaluation for other causes such as **gastroesophageal reflux**, **food allergies**, or other gastrointestinal pathology.
Question 283: A 7-year-old girl passed 15 stools in the last 24 hours and vomited thrice in the last 4 hours. She is irritable but drinking fluids. What is the optimal therapy?
- A. IV fluids
- B. IV fluids followed by ORS
- C. ORS (Correct Answer)
- D. Home fluids
Explanation: ***Correct: ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution)*** - The child has **some dehydration** (15 stools/24h, irritable, recent vomiting) - **Key feature: She is able to drink fluids** - this is the critical determinant for ORS therapy - According to **WHO Plan B** and **IAP guidelines**, children with some dehydration who can drink should receive ORS - ORS should be given at **75 mL/kg over 4 hours** for some dehydration - This is the **optimal first-line therapy** for this dehydration level *Incorrect: IV fluids* - Too aggressive for a child who can drink fluids - Reserved for **severe dehydration** or inability to tolerate oral intake - Unnecessary invasive intervention with associated risks *Incorrect: IV fluids followed by ORS* - IV therapy is not indicated as first-line when child can drink - This approach is used when IV rehydration is needed initially but child improves - Overtreatment for this clinical scenario *Incorrect: Home fluids* - Insufficient for documented dehydration with high stool frequency - Does not provide the **balanced electrolyte composition** of ORS - Home fluids (water, juices) may worsen electrolyte imbalance
Question 284: In pediatrics, differential diagnoses for acute appendicitis include all EXCEPT:
- A. Gastroenteritis
- B. Volvulus
- C. Trauma (Correct Answer)
- D. Torsion
Explanation: ***Trauma*** - While trauma can cause abdominal pain, it is **not typically a differential diagnosis for acute appendicitis** as the mechanism of injury and clinical presentation are distinct. - Appendicitis involves inflammation of the appendix, whereas trauma involves direct injury to abdominal organs or tissues. *Gastroenteritis* - **Gastroenteritis** can present with diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever, mimicking early symptoms of appendicitis. - However, appendicitis pain often localizes to the right lower quadrant, unlike the more generalized pain of gastroenteritis. *Volvulus* - **Volvulus**, especially in infants and young children, presents with severe, colicky abdominal pain, bilious vomiting, and signs of intestinal obstruction, which can overlap with appendicitis symptoms. - Unlike appendicitis, volvulus involves the twisting of a bowel loop, leading to vascular compromise and often requiring urgent surgical intervention. *Torsion* - **Ovarian torsion** or **testicular torsion** can cause acute, severe unilateral lower abdominal or pelvic pain, mimicking appendicitis due to proximity and similar pain presentation in children. - These conditions are distinct from appendicitis as they involve the twisting of adnexal structures or testes, leading to ischemia.
Question 285: Congenital pyloric stenosis presents with:
- A. Hyperkalemic metabolic acidosis
- B. Hypokalemic metabolic acidosis
- C. Hyperkalemic metabolic alkalosis
- D. Hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis*** - **Pyloric stenosis** leads to persistent vomiting of **gastric contents**, rich in hydrochloric acid (HCl), causing loss of H+ ions and resulting in **metabolic alkalosis**. - The loss of gastric fluid also stimulates the **renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system** (RAAS), leading to increased renal potassium excretion and subsequent **hypokalemia**. *Hyperkalemic metabolic acidosis* - This condition is typically seen in states of **renal failure**, **hypoaldosteronism**, or following ingestion of certain toxins, which are not features of pyloric stenosis. - **Metabolic acidosis** is characterized by a decrease in pH and bicarbonate, which is the opposite of what occurs in pyloric stenosis. *Hypokalemic metabolic acidosis* - This can occur with **severe diarrhea**, **renal tubular acidosis**, or diuretic use, none of which are the primary issue in pyloric stenosis. - While **hypokalemia** can be present, the main acid-base disturbance in pyloric stenosis is **metabolic alkalosis**, not acidosis. *Hyperkalemic metabolic alkalosis* - This combination is extremely rare and usually indicates a complex underlying pathology like specific adrenal disorders or certain drug interactions, which are not consistent with the pathophysiology of pyloric stenosis. - **Hyperkalemia** is contrary to the expected electrolyte imbalance in pyloric stenosis, which typically causes potassium loss.
Question 286: Which of the following is an inflammatory bowel disease in children?
- A. Tropical sprue
- B. Cystic fibrosis
- C. Coeliac disease
- D. Regional ileitis (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Regional ileitis*** - Regional ileitis is another name for **Crohn's disease**, which is a type of **inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)** that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the ileum, in children and adults. - IBD in children presents with chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as **abdominal pain**, **diarrhea**, and **weight loss**. *Tropical sprue* - Tropical sprue is a **malabsorption syndrome** characterized by abnormalities in the small intestine, but it is caused by environmental factors and infections, not considered an inflammatory bowel disease. - It is typically seen in individuals living in or visiting tropical regions and is not classified as IBD. *Cystic fibrosis* - Cystic fibrosis is a **genetic disorder** that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system by producing thick, sticky mucus. - While it causes digestive issues due to **pancreatic insufficiency**, it is not an inflammatory bowel disease. *Coeliac disease* - Coeliac disease is an **autoimmune condition** triggered by the ingestion of gluten, leading to damage in the small intestine. - It is distinct from IBD as its pathology is primarily immune-mediated in response to gluten and does not involve chronic, idiopathic inflammation characteristic of IBD.
Question 287: Gallstones in children is caused by all EXCEPT:
- A. Leptospira interrogans infection (Correct Answer)
- B. Sickle cell anemia
- C. Prematurity
- D. Obesity
Explanation: ***Leptospira interrogans infection*** - **Leptospirosis**, caused by *Leptospira interrogans*, is a zoonotic infection that can lead to liver and kidney dysfunction, but it is not a direct cause of **gallstone formation** in children. - While it can cause jaundice due to **cholestasis** and **hepatocellular damage**, it does not promote the crystallization of bile components into stones. *Sickle cell anemia* - Children with **sickle cell anemia** are prone to developing **pigment gallstones** due to chronic hemolysis. - The constant breakdown of red blood cells leads to increased **bilirubin** production, which then precipitates in bile to form stones. *Prematurity* - **Premature infants** are at higher risk for gallstone formation due to factors like prolonged **total parenteral nutrition (TPN)**, which can lead to biliary stasis, and immaturity of the enterohepatic circulation. - Their underdeveloped gastrointestinal system and common medical interventions contribute to altered bile composition and flow. *Obesity* - **Obesity** is a significant risk factor for gallstones in children, as it is in adults. - Obese individuals often have increased **cholesterol secretion** into bile and reduced gallbladder motility, leading to the formation of **cholesterol gallstones**.
Question 288: The most common pathogenic organism causing pyogenic liver abscess in children is:
- A. Klebsiella
- B. Entamoeba Histolytica
- C. H Influenzae
- D. Staphylococcus aureus (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Staphylococcus aureus*** - **Staphylococcus aureus** is the **most common cause of pyogenic liver abscess in children**, particularly in neonates and young children. - It typically reaches the liver via hematogenous spread from a primary focus (umbilical infection, skin infections, or bacteremia). - S. aureus causes a more acute presentation with high fever, toxicity, and potential for multiple abscesses. - Treatment requires drainage and anti-staphylococcal antibiotics. *Klebsiella* - **Klebsiella pneumoniae** is the most common cause of pyogenic liver abscess in **adults**, especially in East Asian populations. - While it can occur in children, it is significantly less common than S. aureus in the pediatric age group. - It is associated with diabetes mellitus and can cause metastatic complications like endophthalmitis. *Entamoeba Histolytica* - This protozoan causes **amoebic liver abscess**, which is non-pyogenic and has a different pathophysiology. - Common in endemic tropical regions and presents with a more subacute course. - Diagnosed by serology and responds to metronidazole, unlike bacterial pyogenic abscesses. *H Influenzae* - **Haemophilus influenzae** can cause invasive infections in children, particularly meningitis and epiglottitis. - It is a rare cause of pyogenic liver abscess in children, especially since widespread Hib vaccination. - When it occurs, it's usually in the context of bacteremia in unimmunized children.
Question 289: In a child with acute liver failure, the most important abnormal serum biochemical test that indicates poor prognosis is?
- A. Reversal of serum albumin-globulin ratio
- B. Increasing transaminase
- C. Increasing prothrombin time (Correct Answer)
- D. Increasing bilirubin
Explanation: ***Increasing prothrombin time*** - An **increasing prothrombin time (PT)** in acute liver failure indicates severe hepatic dysfunction, as the liver synthesizes **coagulation factors I, II, V, VII, X, and XI**. - A prolonged PT reflects a significant **loss of hepatic synthetic function**, which is a key predictor of poor prognosis and the need for liver transplantation. *Reversal of serum albumin-globulin ratio* - This typically indicates **chronic liver disease** or other conditions causing **hypoalbuminemia**, rather than the acute deterioration seen in acute liver failure. - While albumin levels can be low in acute liver failure, the **immediate prognostic marker** is related to synthetic function of rapidly turned over proteins. *Increasing transaminase* - Elevated **transaminases (ALT, AST)** indicate ongoing **hepatocellular injury** and are diagnostic of acute liver failure, but they do not correlate well with prognosis after the initial phase. - Very high transaminase levels can even normalize as the liver tissue is destroyed, but this doesn't mean improved function, hence it is not the most important prognostic indicator. *Increasing bilirubin* - Rising **bilirubin** signifies impaired liver excretory function and is a marker of liver failure, contributing to jaundice. - However, it is not as strong a prognostic indicator as PT because PT reflects the **synthetic capacity of the liver**, which is crucial for survival.
Question 290: A 12 year old girl has history of recurrent bulky stools and abdominal pain since 3 year of age. She has moderate pallor and her weight and height are below the 3rd percentile. Which of the following is the most appropriate investigation to make a specific diagnosis?
- A. Barium studies
- B. Small intestinal biopsy (Correct Answer)
- C. 24-hour fecal fat estimation
- D. Urinary d-xylose test
Explanation: ***Small intestinal biopsy*** - This clinical presentation of **chronic bulky stools**, **growth retardation** (weight and height <3rd percentile), **pallor**, and abdominal pain since early childhood strongly suggests **celiac disease** - Small intestinal biopsy is the **gold standard for definitive diagnosis** of celiac disease, showing characteristic features: **villous atrophy**, **crypt hyperplasia**, and **increased intraepithelial lymphocytes** (Marsh classification) - While serological testing (anti-tTG IgA) is typically performed first in modern practice, among the given options, **biopsy provides the specific histological diagnosis** required - Biopsy allows differentiation from other causes of villous atrophy (tropical sprue, Giardia infection, cow's milk protein allergy) *Barium studies* - May show **non-specific findings** like dilated bowel loops, flocculation of barium, or jejunization of ileum in malabsorption - **Not diagnostic** for the specific underlying cause of malabsorption - Involves **radiation exposure** in a pediatric patient - Requires follow-up with more specific investigations for definitive diagnosis *24-hour fecal fat estimation* - Quantifies **steatorrhea** and confirms fat malabsorption (normal <7g/day in children) - Useful for **documenting the presence** of malabsorption but **does not identify the etiology** - Cannot differentiate between celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis, or other causes of malabsorption - Non-specific screening test rather than a diagnostic investigation *Urinary d-xylose test* - Assesses **small intestinal mucosal absorptive function** for carbohydrates - Abnormal in conditions affecting mucosa (celiac disease, tropical sprue, Crohn's disease) - **Not specific** for any particular disease entity - Less commonly used in modern practice due to availability of better diagnostic modalities
Practice by Chapter
Gastroesophageal Reflux
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Peptic Ulcer Disease
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease
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Celiac Disease
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Malabsorption Syndromes
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Acute and Chronic Diarrhea
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Constipation and Encopresis
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Gastrointestinal Bleeding
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Intestinal Obstruction
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Liver Diseases in Children
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Pancreatic Disorders
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Pediatric Nutritional Support
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