Infectious Diseases Practice Questions

Q: Sternal edema is seen in which of the following conditions?

Mumps. **Explanation:** **Mumps** is the correct answer. While parotitis is the most common manifestation of Mumps, involvement of the submandibular glands can lead to a specific and high-yield clinical sign: **presternal edema**. This occurs due to lymphatic obstruction caused by the significantly enlarged submandibular salivary glands, which impede the lymphatic drainage from the anterior chest wall. This finding is a classic "spotter" for Mumps in pediatric examinations. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Measles:** Characterized by the "3 Cs" (Cough, Coryza, Conjunctivitis), Koplik spots, and a maculopapular rash starting behind the ears. It does not involve salivary gland swelling or sternal edema. * **Diphtheria:** Known for the "bull neck" appearance due to massive cervical lymphadenopathy and soft tissue edema, and the presence of a greyish pseudomembrane. While it causes neck swelling, it does not typically present with isolated presternal edema. * **Varicella (Chickenpox):** Presents with a characteristic pleomorphic rash (vesicles on an erythematous base, "dewdrop on a rose petal"). It does not involve the lymphatic obstruction required to produce sternal edema. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls for Mumps:** * **Most common complication in children:** Aseptic meningitis. * **Most common complication in post-pubertal males:** Orchitis (usually unilateral; rarely leads to sterility). * **Most common cause of isolated viral pancreatitis** in children. * **Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL):** A rare but serious permanent complication. * **Diagnosis:** Usually clinical; confirmed by elevated serum amylase or IgM antibodies.

Q: Which of the following is true about measles?

All the above.. Measles (Rubeola) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the Paramyxovirus. Understanding its clinical course is vital for NEET-PG. **Explanation of Options:** * **Option A (Koplik spots):** These are pathognomonic for measles. They are small, bluish-white spots on an erythematous base found on the buccal mucosa opposite the lower second molars. They appear during the **prodromal stage**, typically 48 hours before the rash, and disappear as the rash begins. * **Option B (Fever):** Unlike Roseola Infantum (where fever drops before the rash), in Measles, the **fever peaks** with the onset of the rash. The fever and constitutional symptoms persist for a few days after the rash appears before gradually subsiding. * **Option C (Vaccination):** Under the National Immunization Schedule (NIS) in India, the first dose of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine is administered at **9 completed months** (9-12 months) subcutaneously. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Rash Progression:** The rash is maculopapular and follows a **cephalocaudal** spread (starts behind the ears/hairline and moves downwards). It fades with **brownish discoloration and desquamation**. 2. **Vitamin A:** Supplementation is mandatory in all children with measles to prevent complications like blindness and reduce mortality. 3. **Complications:** The most common complication is **Otitis Media**. The most common cause of death is **Pneumonia**. The most dreaded late complication is **SSPE** (Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis). 4. **Infectivity:** Patients are infectious from 4 days before to 4 days after the appearance of the rash.

Q: Which of the following infections can affect fetal growth?

All of the above. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **D. All of the above**. This question tests the concept of **TORCH infections** (Toxoplasmosis, Others [Syphilis, Varicella, Parvovirus B19], Rubella, CMV, and Herpes), which are known to cross the placenta or be transmitted during birth, leading to significant fetal morbidity and **Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)**. 1. **Cytomegalovirus (CMV):** This is the most common congenital infection worldwide. It causes periventricular calcifications, microcephaly, and sensorineural hearing loss. The chronic inflammatory process and placental damage significantly impair fetal growth. 2. **Rubella Virus:** Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) is characterized by the classic triad of cataracts, PDA (heart defects), and sensorineural deafness. The virus inhibits cell division (mitotic arrest), leading to a reduced number of cells in fetal organs and severe growth retardation. 3. **Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV):** While most HSV is acquired during delivery, intrauterine (congenital) HSV infection can occur. It presents with the triad of skin vesicles/scarring, eye findings (chorioretinitis), and CNS abnormalities (microcephaly), all of which contribute to poor fetal growth. **Why other options are "wrong":** In this "All of the above" format, options A, B, and C are individual components of the TORCH spectrum. Since all three are proven causes of fetal growth restriction and congenital malformations, selecting only one would be incomplete. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Most common cause of SNHL:** Congenital CMV. * **Calcification patterns:** CMV = Periventricular; Toxoplasmosis = Diffuse/Intracerebral. * **IUGR:** Symmetric IUGR is a hallmark of early-onset TORCH infections. * **Blueberry muffin rash:** Classically associated with Rubella and CMV (due to extramedullary hematopoiesis).

Q: Which disease is most likely to present with emotional lability?

Measles. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Measles**. While measles is primarily known for its prodromal triad (cough, coryza, conjunctivitis) and maculopapular rash, **emotional lability** (irritability, fussiness, and mood swings) is a classic, high-yield clinical feature of the prodromal phase. This is often attributed to the high fever and the systemic inflammatory response caused by the rubeola virus. In pediatric practice, a child with measles is famously described as "miserable" due to the combination of photophobia, persistent cough, and extreme irritability. **Analysis of Options:** * **Typhoid:** Typically presents with a "toxic" look, bradycardia (Faget’s sign), and "pea-soup" diarrhea. While the patient may be lethargic or confused (typhoid state), specific emotional lability is not a hallmark. * **Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE):** This is a late complication of measles occurring years later. While it involves behavioral changes and cognitive decline (Stage 1), the primary boards-style presentation focuses on **myoclonic jerks** and characteristic periodic complexes on EEG. * **All of the above:** Incorrect, as the irritability associated with measles is a distinct diagnostic clue in the acute phase. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Koplik Spots:** Pathognomonic for measles; appear on the buccal mucosa opposite the lower 2nd molars *before* the rash. * **Vitamin A:** Supplementation is mandatory in measles management to reduce morbidity and mortality (prevents blindness and pneumonia). * **SSPE Marker:** Elevated anti-measles antibody titers in the CSF. * **Rash Pattern:** Measles rash begins behind the ears and spreads cephalocaudally; it disappears with "branny" desquamation.

Q: What is NOT a common cause of meningitis in an 8-year-old child?

Staphylococcus aureus. In pediatric meningitis, the causative organisms vary significantly based on the child's age. For children aged 2 to 18 years, the most common pathogens are encapsulated bacteria. **Explanation of the Correct Answer:** **C. Staphylococcus aureus:** This is **not** a common cause of community-acquired meningitis in healthy children. *S. aureus* typically causes meningitis only in specific clinical contexts, such as post-neurosurgical procedures, penetrating head trauma, or the presence of an infected CSF shunt (VP shunt). In a standard 8-year-old child without these risk factors, it is an uncommon primary pathogen. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Streptococcus pneumoniae:** This remains the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children over 2 years of age in the post-vaccine era. It is associated with the highest morbidity and mortality. * **B. Haemophilus influenzae (Type b):** While the incidence has drastically reduced due to the Hib vaccine, it remains a recognized cause of meningitis in unimmunized or under-immunized children. * **D. Neisseria meningitidis:** This is a leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children and adolescents, often occurring in outbreaks or clusters. It is classically associated with a petechial or purpuric rash. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Neonates ( 10 years):** *N. meningitidis* becomes increasingly prevalent. * **CSF Findings:** Bacterial meningitis typically shows low glucose ( 100 mg/dL), and neutrophilic pleocytosis.

Q: A 5-year-old female presents with fever, headache, and confusion. A provisional diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is made. The child had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin approximately six months prior. After admission, intravenous antibiotics were started. Investigations revealed: Hemoglobin – 6.0 g/L, Erythrocyte count – 1.2 x 10^6/mm^3, Platelets – 60,000/mm^3, Leukocyte count – 1500/mm^3. Which of the following is the most likely drug responsible for these findings?

Chloramphenicol. **Explanation:** The clinical presentation of fever, headache, and confusion suggests **bacterial meningitis**. The patient has a history of severe penicillin allergy, which limits the use of beta-lactams (like Ceftriaxone). Historically, **Chloramphenicol** was a primary alternative for meningitis in penicillin-allergic patients due to its excellent blood-brain barrier penetration. The laboratory findings (Hb: 6.0 g/L, WBC: 1500/mm³, Platelets: 60,000/mm³) indicate **pancytopenia**, suggesting bone marrow suppression. Chloramphenicol is notorious for causing two types of bone marrow toxicity: 1. **Dose-dependent anemia:** Reversible suppression of erythropoiesis. 2. **Idiosyncratic Aplastic Anemia:** A rare, unpredictable, and often fatal condition leading to pancytopenia (as seen in this case). **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Gentamicin:** An aminoglycoside primarily associated with **nephrotoxicity** and **ototoxicity**. It does not cause pancytopenia and has poor CNS penetration. * **Doxycycline:** A tetracycline generally contraindicated in children under 8 years (due to tooth discoloration). Its primary side effects are GI upset and photosensitivity, not bone marrow failure. * **Vancomycin:** Used for MRSA or penicillin-resistant pneumococci. Its classic side effects include **Red Man Syndrome** and nephrotoxicity, but it does not typically cause aplastic anemia. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Chloramphenicol Toxicity:** Remember the mnemonic **"Gray Baby Syndrome"** (due to deficient glucuronidation in neonates) and **Aplastic Anemia**. * **Mechanism of Action:** Inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the **50S ribosomal subunit**. * **Drug of Choice:** Though largely replaced by Cephalosporins, it remains a backup for Rickettsial infections and Typhoid fever in specific settings.

Q: Bull's neck is characteristically seen in which of the following conditions?

Diphtheria. **Explanation:** **Diphtheria (Option B)** is the correct answer. The "Bull's neck" appearance is a classic clinical hallmark of **Faucial Diphtheria**, caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*. This appearance results from massive swelling of the cervical lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) combined with extensive edema of the surrounding soft tissues in the neck. It is often associated with severe toxicity and the presence of a greyish-white, leathery pseudomembrane over the tonsils and pharynx. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Hamartoma of Lung (Option A):** This is a benign neoplastic growth in the lung. Radiologically, it is characterized by "Popcorn calcification," not cervical swelling. * **Glaucoma (Option C):** This refers to increased intraocular pressure. Congenital glaucoma is associated with "Buphthalmos" (ox-eye), which affects the globe of the eye, not the neck. * **Hepatic Candidiasis (Option D):** This is a fungal infection of the liver, typically seen in immunocompromised patients. On imaging (CT/USG), it presents with a "Bull’s eye" appearance (target lesions), which is a radiologic sign, not a clinical neck deformity. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Causative Agent:** *Corynebacterium diphtheriae* (Gram-positive, club-shaped bacilli, showing Chinese-letter pattern). * **Culture Media:** Löffler's serum slope (rapid growth) and Potassium Tellurite agar (black colonies). * **Schick Test:** Used to determine the immune status of an individual toward diphtheria. * **Complications:** Myocarditis (most common cause of death) and neurological involvement (Palatal palsy). * **Treatment:** Prompt administration of Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) and antibiotics (Penicillin or Erythromycin).

Q: A 6-year-old girl complains of otalgia, fever, and irritability. Physical examination reveals a stiff, bulging, red tympanic membrane. Previous history of ear infections is denied. What is the recommended duration of antibiotic treatment for acute otitis media in this patient?

5 days. **Explanation:** The patient presents with classic features of **Acute Otitis Media (AOM)**: otalgia, fever, and a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane. The duration of antibiotic therapy in AOM is determined primarily by the **age of the patient** and the **severity of the disease**. **Why Option B is correct:** Current clinical guidelines (AAP and IAP) recommend a shortened course of antibiotics for older children with uncomplicated AOM. For children **aged 6 years and older** with mild-to-moderate symptoms, a **5-day course** of antibiotics (typically Amoxicillin) is considered adequate and effective. This shorter duration improves compliance and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance and side effects. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Option A (1 day):** A single dose is insufficient to eradicate common pathogens like *S. pneumoniae* or *H. influenzae*. * **Option C (7 days):** This is generally recommended for children aged **2 to 5 years** with mild-to-moderate AOM. * **Option D (10 days):** This is the standard duration for **children 39°C), or those with perforated membranes/recurrent infections. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **First-line Drug:** High-dose **Amoxicillin** (80–90 mg/kg/day) is the treatment of choice. * **Diagnosis:** The most specific sign of AOM is **bulging of the tympanic membrane** (indicates middle ear effusion + inflammation). * **Watchful Waiting:** In children >6 months with unilateral, non-severe AOM, "watchful waiting" for 48–72 hours is an option before starting antibiotics. * **Common Pathogens:** *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (most common), Non-typeable *Haemophilus influenzae*, and *Moraxella catarrhalis*.

Q: Which of the following is a late toxic manifestation of diphtheria in a child?

Myocarditis. **Explanation:** **Diphtheria**, caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*, is primarily a toxin-mediated disease. The **exotoxin** (produced by lysogenic bacteriophage) inhibits protein synthesis, leading to local tissue necrosis (pseudomembrane) and systemic complications. **Why Myocarditis is the Correct Answer:** Myocarditis is the most common and serious **late toxic manifestation**, typically occurring during the **second week** of the illness as the toxin binds to cardiac myocytes. It presents with arrhythmias, heart blocks, or congestive heart failure. It is a major cause of mortality in diphtheria patients. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Renal Failure (A):** While the toxin can cause acute tubular necrosis (ATN) leading to proteinuria or mild renal impairment, frank renal failure is not a classic or primary toxic manifestation compared to cardiac or neurological involvement. * **Septicemia (D):** Diphtheria is essentially a **toxemia**, not a bacteremia. The bacteria remain localized in the upper respiratory tract or skin; the systemic damage is caused by the circulating toxin, not the spread of the bacteria in the bloodstream. * **None of the above (C):** Incorrect, as myocarditis is a well-documented toxic complication. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Biphasic Course:** Toxic manifestations often follow a biphasic pattern: **Myocarditis** (Week 2) followed by **Neurological complications** (Weeks 3–6, e.g., palatal palsy, ciliary paralysis, or Guillain-Barré-like polyneuropathy). * **Diagnosis:** Culture on **Löffler’s serum slope** or **Potassium Tellurite agar** (black colonies). Toxin production is confirmed by the **Elek test**. * **Treatment:** Immediate administration of **Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT)** is the mainstay of therapy; antibiotics (Penicillin or Erythromycin) are used only to stop further toxin production and prevent spread.

Q: Rubella infection is known to cause all of the following congenital anomalies except:

Aortic Stenosis (AS). **Explanation:** Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) is a classic "TORCH" infection characterized by a specific triad of clinical findings: **Cataracts, Sensorineural deafness, and Cardiac defects.** **1. Why Aortic Stenosis (AS) is the Correct Answer:** While Rubella causes several cardiovascular malformations, **Aortic Stenosis** is not typically associated with the syndrome. Aortic Stenosis is more commonly linked to conditions like Turner Syndrome or Williams Syndrome (Supravalvular AS). In CRS, the primary cardiac pathologies involve the great vessels and the right side of the heart. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA):** This is the **most common** cardiac anomaly in Rubella. The virus inhibits the normal development of the vascular endothelium, preventing the physiological closure of the ductus. * **Microcephaly:** CRS is a neurodevelopmental teratogen. It causes intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and interferes with brain growth, leading to microcephaly, mental retardation, and "salt and pepper" retinopathy. * **Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD):** While PDA and Peripheral Pulmonary Artery Stenosis are more specific, VSD is a recognized component of the structural heart defects seen in CRS. **3. NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Gregg’s Triad:** Cataracts, Deafness, and Heart disease (PDA). * **Classic Skin Finding:** "Blueberry muffin" spots (due to extramedullary hematopoiesis). * **Most Common Defect:** Sensorineural hearing loss is the most frequent overall sign. * **Timing:** Risk is highest if infection occurs during the **first trimester** (especially the first 8 weeks). * **Diagnosis:** Confirmed by Rubella-specific IgM in the newborn or persistent IgG levels beyond 6 months.

Question 1

Sternal edema is seen in which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Mumps

Answer

Measles

Answer

Diphtheria

Answer

Varicella

Question 2

Which of the following is true about measles?

Accepted Answer

All the above.

Answer

Koplik spots appear in the prodromal stage.

Answer

Fever stops after the onset of the rash.

Answer

The vaccine is given at 9 months.

Question 3

Which of the following infections can affect fetal growth?

Accepted Answer

All of the above

Answer

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Answer

Rubella virus

Answer

Herpes simplex virus

Question 4

Which disease is most likely to present with emotional lability?

Accepted Answer

Measles

Answer

Typhoid

Answer

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE)

Answer

All of the above

Question 5

What is NOT a common cause of meningitis in an 8-year-old child?

Accepted Answer

Staphylococcus aureus

Answer

Streptococcus pneumoniae

Answer

Haemophilus influenzae

Answer

Neisseria meningitidis

Question 6

A 5-year-old female presents with fever, headache, and confusion. A provisional diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is made. The child had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin approximately six months prior. After admission, intravenous antibiotics were started. Investigations revealed: Hemoglobin – 6.0 g/L, Erythrocyte count – 1.2 x 10^6/mm^3, Platelets – 60,000/mm^3, Leukocyte count – 1500/mm^3. Which of the following is the most likely drug responsible for these findings?

Accepted Answer

Chloramphenicol

Answer

Gentamicin

Answer

Doxycycline

Answer

Vancomycin

Question 7

Bull's neck is characteristically seen in which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Diphtheria

Answer

Hamartoma of Lung

Answer

Glaucoma

Answer

Hepatic Candidiasis

Question 8

A 6-year-old girl complains of otalgia, fever, and irritability. Physical examination reveals a stiff, bulging, red tympanic membrane. Previous history of ear infections is denied. What is the recommended duration of antibiotic treatment for acute otitis media in this patient?

Accepted Answer

5 days

Answer

1 day

Answer

7 days

Answer

10 days

Question 9

Which of the following is a late toxic manifestation of diphtheria in a child?

Accepted Answer

Myocarditis

Answer

Renal failure

Answer

None of the above

Answer

Septicemia

Question 10

Rubella infection is known to cause all of the following congenital anomalies except:

Accepted Answer

Aortic Stenosis (AS)

Answer

Microcephaly

Answer

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

Answer

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Infectious Diseases — MCQs

Infectious Diseases — MCQs

On this page

Practice by Chapter

Want unlimited practice?