A 38-year-old G1P0 woman presents to her obstetrician for a prenatal visit. She reports feeling well and has no acute concerns. She is currently at 28 weeks gestation previously confirmed by ultrasound. She takes her folate supplements daily. She has a 10-pack-year smoking history and currently smokes half a pack per day. On physical exam, the uterus is soft and globular. The top of the uterine fundus is found around the level of the umbilicus. A fetal ultrasound demonstrates a reduced liver volume and subcutaneous fat with relative sparing of the head. Which of the following is most likely the cause of this patient's ultrasound findings?
Q212
A 52-year-old G3P3 presents to her gynecologist complaining of painful intercourse. She reports a 6-month history of intermittent dryness, itching, and burning during intercourse. Upon further questioning, she also reports poor sleep and occasional periods during which she feels very warm and sweats profusely. Her past medical history is significant for poorly controlled hypertension and a 10 pack-year smoking history. She takes hydrochlorothiazide and enalapril. Her temperature is 99.3°F (37.4°C), blood pressure is 135/85 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, and respirations are 18/min. On examination, she is a healthy female in no distress. Pelvic examination reveals no adnexal or cervical motion tenderness. Which of the following sets of hormone levels are most likely to be found in this patient?
Q213
A 27-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician for a concern about her pregnancy. This is her first pregnancy, and she is currently at 33 weeks gestation. She states that she has experienced diffuse swelling of her ankles and legs and is concerned that it is abnormal. Otherwise, she has no concerns. The patient has a past medical history of obesity and diabetes. Her temperature is 98.5°F (36.9°C), blood pressure is 147/92 mmHg, pulse is 80/min, respirations are 15/min, and oxygen saturation is 97% on room air. Physical exam reveals bilateral edema of the lower extremities. Which of the following is the best next step in management?
Q214
A 51-year-old woman presents to the primary care clinic complaining of trouble sleeping. She reports that she has episodes of "overheating" and "sweating" during the day and at night. The nightly episodes keep her from staying asleep. She also explains how embarrassing it is when she suddenly becomes hot and flushed during work meetings. The patient becomes visibly upset and states that she is worried about her marriage as well. She says she has been fighting with her husband about not going out because she is "too tired." They have not been able to have sex the past several months because "it hurts." Labs are drawn, as shown below:
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): 62 mIU/mL
Estradiol: 34 pg/mL
Progesterone: 0.1 ng/mL
Luteinizing hormone (LH): 46 mIU/mL
Free testosterone: 2.1 ng/dL
Which of the following contributes most to the production of estrogen in this patient?
Q215
A 27-year-old gravida 2, para 1 presents to her physician at 21 weeks gestation with decreased sensitivity, tingling, and pain in her right hand that is worse at night and is partially relieved by shaking her hand. She developed these symptoms gradually over the past month. She does not report any trauma to her extremities, neck, or spine. The physical examination shows a normal range of motion of the neck, spine, and extremities. On neurologic examination, the patient has 2+ biceps and triceps reflexes. She has decreased pressure and temperature sensitivity over the palmar surface of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd fingers. Wrist flexion and tapping the skin over the flexor retinaculum trigger exacerbation of the symptoms. Which of the following statements about the patient’s condition is correct?
Q216
A 40-year-old, gravida 2, nulliparous woman, at 14 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of a 6-hour history of light vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal discomfort. Eight months ago she had a spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks' gestation. Her pulse is 92/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 134/76 mm Hg. Abdominal examination shows no tenderness or masses; bowel sounds are normal. On pelvic examination, there is old blood in the vaginal vault and at the closed cervical os. The uterus is larger than expected for the length of gestation and there are bilateral adnexal masses. Serum β-hCG concentration is 120,000 mIU/ml. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Q217
A 32-year-old primigravida at 35 weeks gestation seeks evaluation at the emergency department for swelling and redness of the left calf, which started 2 hours ago. She reports that the pain has worsened since the onset. The patient denies a history of insect bites or trauma. She has never experienced something like this in the past. Her pregnancy has been uneventful so far. She does not use alcohol, tobacco, or any illicit drugs. She does not take any medications other than prenatal vitamins. Her temperature is 36.8℃ (98.2℉), the blood pressure is 105/60 mm Hg, the pulse is 110/min, and the respirations are 15/min. The left calf is edematous with the presence of erythema. The skin feels warm and pain is elicited with passive dorsiflexion of the foot. The femoral, popliteal, and pedal pulses are palpable bilaterally. An abdominal examination reveals a fundal height consistent with the gestational age. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. The patient is admitted to the hospital and appropriate treatment is initiated. Which of the following hormones is most likely implicated in the development of this patient’s condition?
Q218
A 22-year-old primigravid woman at 12 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of several hours of abdominal cramping and passing of large vaginal blood clots. Her temperature is 36.8°C (98.3°F), pulse is 75/min, and blood pressure is 110/65 mmHg. The uterus is consistent in size with a 12-week gestation. Speculum exam shows an open cervical os and blood clots within the vaginal vault. Transvaginal ultrasound shows an empty gestational sac. The patient is worried about undergoing invasive procedures. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
Q219
a 34-year-old G2P2 woman presents to her obstetrician because of new onset discharge from her breast. She first noticed it in her bra a few days ago, but now she notes that at times she's soaking through to her blouse, which is mortifying. She was also concerned about being pregnant because she has not gotten her period in 3 months. In the office ß-HCG is negative. The patient's nipple discharge is guaiac negative. Which of the following therapies is most appropriate?
Q220
A 24-year-old G1P0 presents to her obstetrician at 26 weeks’ gestation complaining of worsening headaches and blurry vision. Her past medical history is notable for hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Her temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 160/95 mmHg, pulse is 100/min, and respirations are 18/min. On physical exam, she is tender to palpation in her abdomen and has mild edema in her extremities. A urine dipstick demonstrates 3+ protein. The patient is immediately started on IV magnesium sulfate, diazepam, and a medication that affects both a- and ß-adrenergic receptors. Which of the following medications is most consistent with this mechanism of action?
High-risk pregnancies US Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 211: A 38-year-old G1P0 woman presents to her obstetrician for a prenatal visit. She reports feeling well and has no acute concerns. She is currently at 28 weeks gestation previously confirmed by ultrasound. She takes her folate supplements daily. She has a 10-pack-year smoking history and currently smokes half a pack per day. On physical exam, the uterus is soft and globular. The top of the uterine fundus is found around the level of the umbilicus. A fetal ultrasound demonstrates a reduced liver volume and subcutaneous fat with relative sparing of the head. Which of the following is most likely the cause of this patient's ultrasound findings?
A. Cigarette smoking (Correct Answer)
B. Aneuploidy
C. Fetal congenital heart disease
D. Neural tube defect
E. Fetal infection
Explanation: ***Cigarette smoking***
- Maternal cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for **intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)** due to reduced uteroplacental blood flow and hypoxia, leading to the observed findings of reduced liver volume and subcutaneous fat.
- The **"head-sparing"** growth pattern, where the head circumference remains relatively normal while abdominal circumference and overall growth are restricted, is characteristic of IUGR often caused by placental insufficiency, which is frequently associated with smoking.
*Aneuploidy*
- While aneuploidy can cause IUGR and congenital anomalies, the specific ultrasound findings of **reduced liver volume** and **subcutaneous fat** with **head sparing** are not uniquely indicative of aneuploidy.
- Aneuploidy often presents with multiple structural anomalies or specific dysmorphic features which are not mentioned here.
*Fetal congenital heart disease*
- Severe congenital heart disease can lead to IUGR and fetal hydrops; however, it typically results in a more global growth restriction or specific anomalies detectable on echocardiography, not selectively impacting liver volume and subcutaneous fat in a **head-sparing** manner without other overt cardiac signs.
- The primary defect would be cardiac, potentially leading to secondary growth restriction, but the direct findings described are more consistent with placental insufficiency.
*Neural tube defect*
- Neural tube defects primarily involve abnormalities of the **brain** and **spinal cord**, such as anencephaly or spina bifida.
- These defects do not typically cause isolated **reduced liver volume** or loss of **subcutaneous fat** in a head-sparing pattern.
*Fetal infection*
- Fetal infections (e.g., TORCH infections) can cause IUGR, but they are often associated with other specific findings such as **intracranial calcifications**, **hepatosplenomegaly**, **hydrops**, or specific organ damage, which are not described.
- The "head-sparing" pattern is less typical for acute fetal infections causing growth restriction, which often have a more symmetrical impact on growth.
Question 212: A 52-year-old G3P3 presents to her gynecologist complaining of painful intercourse. She reports a 6-month history of intermittent dryness, itching, and burning during intercourse. Upon further questioning, she also reports poor sleep and occasional periods during which she feels very warm and sweats profusely. Her past medical history is significant for poorly controlled hypertension and a 10 pack-year smoking history. She takes hydrochlorothiazide and enalapril. Her temperature is 99.3°F (37.4°C), blood pressure is 135/85 mmHg, pulse is 90/min, and respirations are 18/min. On examination, she is a healthy female in no distress. Pelvic examination reveals no adnexal or cervical motion tenderness. Which of the following sets of hormone levels are most likely to be found in this patient?
A. Increased estrogen, decreased FSH, decreased LH, decreased GnRH
B. Decreased estrogen, decreased FSH, decreased LH, increased GnRH
C. Normal estrogen, normal FSH, normal LH, normal GnRH
E. Increased estrogen, increased FSH, increased LH, increased GnRH
Explanation: ***Decreased estrogen, increased FSH, increased LH, increased GnRH***
- The patient's symptoms of **vaginal dryness**, **dyspareunia**, **hot flashes**, and **night sweats** are classic for **menopause**. These symptoms are caused by a significant decline in **estrogen production** by the ovaries.
- In response to low estrogen, the **hypothalamus** increases **GnRH** (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) secretion, which in turn leads to increased production of **FSH** (follicle-stimulating hormone) and **LH** (luteinizing hormone) from the **anterior pituitary** in an attempt to stimulate ovarian function.
*Increased estrogen, decreased FSH, decreased LH, decreased GnRH*
- This hormonal profile is characteristic of conditions like **ovarian tumors** that produce estrogen or **pregnancy**, neither of which fits the clinical picture of menopause.
- High estrogen levels would typically **inhibit GnRH, FSH, and LH** secretion through negative feedback mechanisms.
*Decreased estrogen, decreased FSH, decreased LH, increased GnRH*
- This pattern suggests a **primary ovarian failure** (low estrogen) coupled with a **pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction** resulting in inappropriately low FSH and LH. This is not typical for natural menopause.
- In natural menopause, the pituitary and hypothalamus respond to low estrogen by **increasing** FSH and LH.
*Normal estrogen, normal FSH, normal LH, normal GnRH*
- This hormonal profile would be consistent with a **pre-menopausal** or **reproductive-aged woman**, not someone experiencing menopausal symptoms like this patient.
- The patient's symptoms clearly indicate a significant shift in her hormonal status.
*Increased estrogen, increased FSH, increased LH, increased GnRH*
- It is physiologically unlikely to have **increased estrogen** simultaneously with **increased FSH, LH, and GnRH**, as estrogen exerts negative feedback on these hormones.
- This pattern does not align with any known normal or common pathological hormonal state.
Question 213: A 27-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician for a concern about her pregnancy. This is her first pregnancy, and she is currently at 33 weeks gestation. She states that she has experienced diffuse swelling of her ankles and legs and is concerned that it is abnormal. Otherwise, she has no concerns. The patient has a past medical history of obesity and diabetes. Her temperature is 98.5°F (36.9°C), blood pressure is 147/92 mmHg, pulse is 80/min, respirations are 15/min, and oxygen saturation is 97% on room air. Physical exam reveals bilateral edema of the lower extremities. Which of the following is the best next step in management?
A. Urinalysis and urine protein
B. Echocardiography
C. Reassurance and followup in 1 week
D. A 24 hour urine protein
E. Spot protein to creatinine ratio (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Spot protein to creatinine ratio***
- The patient presents with **hypertension** (147/92 mmHg) and **edema** in the third trimester of pregnancy, raising suspicion for **preeclampsia**.
- A spot urine protein-to-creatinine ratio is a **rapid** and **convenient screening test** to assess for significant proteinuria, which is a diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia.
*Urinalysis and urine protein*
- While a urinalysis can detect protein, it is **qualitative** and less precise than quantitative methods for diagnosing preeclampsia.
- A plain urine dipstick for protein can yield **false positives** or **false negatives**, making it an unreliable sole diagnostic test for proteinuria in this context.
*Echocardiography*
- Echocardiography is primarily used to evaluate **cardiac function** and structure, and there are no signs or symptoms in this patient suggesting primary cardiac pathology.
- While preeclampsia can affect the heart, an echocardiogram is **not the initial diagnostic step** for suspected preeclampsia itself.
*Reassurance and followup in 1 week*
- Given the elevated blood pressure and edema, **preeclampsia is a serious concern** that requires immediate evaluation, not delayed follow-up.
- Delaying assessment could lead to progression of the condition, increasing risks for both the mother and the fetus.
*A 24 hour urine protein*
- A 24-hour urine collection for protein is considered the **gold standard** for quantifying proteinuria.
- However, it is **time-consuming** and less practical as an initial rapid assessment tool compared to a spot protein-to-creatinine ratio when immediate evaluation for preeclampsia is warranted.
Question 214: A 51-year-old woman presents to the primary care clinic complaining of trouble sleeping. She reports that she has episodes of "overheating" and "sweating" during the day and at night. The nightly episodes keep her from staying asleep. She also explains how embarrassing it is when she suddenly becomes hot and flushed during work meetings. The patient becomes visibly upset and states that she is worried about her marriage as well. She says she has been fighting with her husband about not going out because she is "too tired." They have not been able to have sex the past several months because "it hurts." Labs are drawn, as shown below:
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): 62 mIU/mL
Estradiol: 34 pg/mL
Progesterone: 0.1 ng/mL
Luteinizing hormone (LH): 46 mIU/mL
Free testosterone: 2.1 ng/dL
Which of the following contributes most to the production of estrogen in this patient?
A. Adrenal glands
B. Adipose tissue (Correct Answer)
C. Bartholin glands
D. Mammary glands
E. Ovaries
Explanation: **Adipose tissue**
- In **postmenopausal women**, the ovaries no longer produce significant amounts of estrogen; instead, **adipose tissue** becomes the primary site for estrogen synthesis through the conversion of **androgens** (like androstenedione from the adrenal glands) into **estrone** via **aromatase**.
- The patient's presentation with **hot flashes**, **night sweats**, **sleep disturbance**, **vaginal dryness** (painful intercourse), and **elevated FSH/LH** with **low estradiol** is classic for **menopause**, highlighting the shift in estrogen production.
*Adrenal glands*
- The **adrenal glands** primarily produce **androgens** (e.g., androstenedione, DHEA) and a small amount of estrogens, but their main contribution to estrogen in menopause is indirect, by providing substrates for conversion in peripheral tissues.
- While they are a source of **androgens**, they do not directly contribute most significantly to **estrogen production** in a menopausal woman compared to the peripheral conversion in adipose tissue.
*Bartholin glands*
- **Bartholin glands** are located at the vaginal opening and produce **lubricating fluid**, but they play no role in **hormone production**, including estrogen.
- They are exocrine glands involved in lubrication during sexual arousal.
*Mammary glands*
- **Mammary glands** are primarily involved in **milk production** (lactation) and are target organs for sex hormones, but they do not produce significant amounts of **estrogen**.
- They respond to estrogen but do not synthesize it in substantial quantities.
*Ovaries*
- In premenopausal women, the **ovaries** are the primary source of **estrogen** (mainly estradiol), but in this 51-year-old woman with menopausal symptoms and high FSH/LH, ovarian function has significantly declined.
- The **elevated FSH and LH** levels, coupled with **low estradiol**, indicate **ovarian failure**, meaning the ovaries are no longer actively producing estrogen.
Question 215: A 27-year-old gravida 2, para 1 presents to her physician at 21 weeks gestation with decreased sensitivity, tingling, and pain in her right hand that is worse at night and is partially relieved by shaking her hand. She developed these symptoms gradually over the past month. She does not report any trauma to her extremities, neck, or spine. The physical examination shows a normal range of motion of the neck, spine, and extremities. On neurologic examination, the patient has 2+ biceps and triceps reflexes. She has decreased pressure and temperature sensitivity over the palmar surface of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd fingers. Wrist flexion and tapping the skin over the flexor retinaculum trigger exacerbation of the symptoms. Which of the following statements about the patient’s condition is correct?
A. If this condition has occurred in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, it is unlikely to resolve after the completion of pregnancy.
B. Pre-pregnancy obesity increases risk of developing this condition during pregnancy.
C. Corticosteroid injections are contraindicated in pregnant women for management of this condition.
D. This is a fairly uncommon condition in pregnant women.
E. Immobilization (for example, splinting) should improve the reported outcome in this patient. (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Immobilization (for example, splinting) should improve the reported outcome in this patient.***
- The patient presents with classic symptoms of **carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)**, including decreased sensitivity, tingling, and pain in the right hand, worse at night, relieved by shaking, and exacerbated by wrist flexion (**Phalen's test**) and tapping over the flexor retinaculum (**Tinel's sign**).
- **Wrist splinting** (especially at night) keeps the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the **median nerve** and often alleviating symptoms.
*If this condition has occurred in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, it is unlikely to resolve after the completion of pregnancy.*
- **Pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel syndrome** is often due to fluid retention and usually **resolves spontaneously** in the postpartum period in the majority of cases (approximately 70-90%).
- While some severe cases may persist, the general prognosis for resolution after delivery is good.
*Pre-pregnancy obesity increases risk of developing this condition during pregnancy.*
- While **obesity** is a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome in the general population, **pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome** is primarily linked to hormonal changes and fluid retention specific to pregnancy, rather than pre-pregnancy obesity.
- The pathophysiology in pregnant women is more related to **edema** compressing the median nerve within the carpal tunnel.
*Corticosteroid injections are contraindicated in pregnant women for management of this condition.*
- **Corticosteroid injections** are generally considered **safe** for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy, especially if conservative measures fail.
- They are typically administered locally and systemic absorption is minimal, posing little risk to the fetus when used judiciously.
*This is a fairly uncommon condition in pregnant women.*
- **Carpal tunnel syndrome** is actually one of the most **common neurological complications** of pregnancy, affecting between 3% to 60% of pregnant women, particularly in the later trimesters.
- Hormonal changes and increased fluid retention during pregnancy predispose women to this condition.
Question 216: A 40-year-old, gravida 2, nulliparous woman, at 14 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of a 6-hour history of light vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal discomfort. Eight months ago she had a spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks' gestation. Her pulse is 92/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 134/76 mm Hg. Abdominal examination shows no tenderness or masses; bowel sounds are normal. On pelvic examination, there is old blood in the vaginal vault and at the closed cervical os. The uterus is larger than expected for the length of gestation and there are bilateral adnexal masses. Serum β-hCG concentration is 120,000 mIU/ml. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Fetal blood sampling
B. Fetal Doppler ultrasound
C. Chorionic villus sampling
D. Thyroid function tests
E. Transvaginal ultrasound (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Transvaginal ultrasound***
- The patient's presentation with **vaginal bleeding**, **uterus larger than expected**, **bilateral adnexal masses**, and **extremely elevated β-hCG (120,000 mIU/ml at 14 weeks)** strongly suggests a **hydatidiform mole** (a type of gestational trophoblastic disease).
- A **transvaginal ultrasound** is the definitive diagnostic tool to confirm a molar pregnancy, visualize the characteristic "snowstorm" appearance, and assess for any retained products of conception or ovarian theca-lutein cysts associated with high β-hCG.
*Fetal blood sampling*
- This procedure is typically performed later in pregnancy (after 18-20 weeks) to diagnose **fetal anemia**, **infections**, or **chromosomal abnormalities**, none of which are indicated by the current findings.
- The likelihood of a viable fetus with the clinical picture of a molar pregnancy is very low, making this intervention inappropriate.
*Fetal Doppler ultrasound*
- A fetal Doppler ultrasound primarily assesses **fetal blood flow** and well-being, which is not the priority given the high suspicion of a molar pregnancy.
- While it can detect a fetal heart rate in normal pregnancies, it would not provide the structural detail needed to diagnose a molar pregnancy.
*Chorionic villus sampling*
- This procedure is used for **prenatal genetic diagnosis** in early pregnancy (10-13 weeks) but would not be the first line of investigation for suspected molar pregnancy.
- The primary concern here is the diagnosis of a growth abnormality of the placenta, not fetal genetics, especially given the other strongly suggestive signs of a molar pregnancy.
*Thyroid function tests*
- While **hyperthyroidism** can be a rare complication of exceptionally high β-hCG levels due to its structural similarity to TSH, it is a secondary concern.
- Diagnosing the underlying cause of the high β-hCG and abnormal pregnancy, which is most likely a molar pregnancy, takes precedence over evaluating for potential secondary complications at this stage.
Question 217: A 32-year-old primigravida at 35 weeks gestation seeks evaluation at the emergency department for swelling and redness of the left calf, which started 2 hours ago. She reports that the pain has worsened since the onset. The patient denies a history of insect bites or trauma. She has never experienced something like this in the past. Her pregnancy has been uneventful so far. She does not use alcohol, tobacco, or any illicit drugs. She does not take any medications other than prenatal vitamins. Her temperature is 36.8℃ (98.2℉), the blood pressure is 105/60 mm Hg, the pulse is 110/min, and the respirations are 15/min. The left calf is edematous with the presence of erythema. The skin feels warm and pain is elicited with passive dorsiflexion of the foot. The femoral, popliteal, and pedal pulses are palpable bilaterally. An abdominal examination reveals a fundal height consistent with the gestational age. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. The patient is admitted to the hospital and appropriate treatment is initiated. Which of the following hormones is most likely implicated in the development of this patient’s condition?
A. Human placental lactogen
B. Human chorionic gonadotropin
C. Progesterone (Correct Answer)
D. Prolactin
E. Estriol
Explanation: ***Progesterone***
- This patient presents with symptoms highly suggestive of **deep vein thrombosis (DVT)**, including unilateral leg swelling, warmth, erythema, and pain with dorsiflexion (**Homans' sign**). Pregnancy is a significant risk factor for DVT due to a **hypercoagulable state**.
- **Progesterone** is a key hormone in pregnancy that contributes to venous stasis by causing **venodilation** and decreasing vascular tone, making pregnant women more susceptible to DVT. It also contributes to the overall hypercoagulable state.
*Human placental lactogen*
- **Human placental lactogen (hPL)** is primarily involved in **insulin resistance** and glucose regulation in the mother to ensure nutrient supply to the fetus.
- It does not directly contribute to the thrombotic risk or venous changes seen in DVT.
*Human chorionic gonadotropin*
- **Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)** maintains the **corpus luteum** in early pregnancy and is associated with morning sickness.
- While essential for pregnancy, it does not directly influence coagulation or venous status to predispose to DVT.
*Prolactin*
- **Prolactin** is crucial for **mammary gland development** and **lactation**.
- It does not have a direct role in the physiological changes that increase DVT risk during pregnancy.
*Estriol*
- **Estriol** is a major estrogen in pregnancy, and like other estrogens, it contributes to the **hypercoagulable state** by increasing clotting factors and decreasing natural anticoagulants.
- However, progesterone's role in **venodilation and venous stasis** is more directly implicated in the acute development of DVT symptoms in the lower extremities during late pregnancy than the broad procoagulant effects of estrogen.
Question 218: A 22-year-old primigravid woman at 12 weeks' gestation comes to the physician because of several hours of abdominal cramping and passing of large vaginal blood clots. Her temperature is 36.8°C (98.3°F), pulse is 75/min, and blood pressure is 110/65 mmHg. The uterus is consistent in size with a 12-week gestation. Speculum exam shows an open cervical os and blood clots within the vaginal vault. Transvaginal ultrasound shows an empty gestational sac. The patient is worried about undergoing invasive procedures. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
A. Serial beta-hCG measurement
B. Methotrexate therapy
C. Expectant management (Correct Answer)
D. Dilation and curettage
E. Oxytocin therapy
Explanation: **Expectant management**
- The patient presents with symptoms of an **inevitable abortion** (vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, and an open cervical os) and an **empty gestational sac** on ultrasound, indicating a non-viable pregnancy.
- As the patient is hemodynamically stable and expresses concern about invasive procedures, **expectant management** is a reasonable and often preferred approach for early pregnancy loss, allowing the body to naturally expel the pregnancy tissue.
*Serial beta-hCG measurement*
- While useful for diagnosing pregnancy and monitoring resolution in certain cases (e.g., ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy), **serial beta-hCG measurement** is not the primary next step for a definitively diagnosed inevitable abortion with an empty gestational sac.
- The diagnosis of inevitable abortion is already established by clinical and ultrasound findings, so beta-hCG monitoring would primarily confirm pregnancy resolution rather than guide immediate management of the ongoing miscarriage itself.
*Methotrexate therapy*
- **Methotrexate therapy** is primarily used for the medical management of **ectopic pregnancies** or persistent gestational trophoblastic disease.
- It is not indicated for the management of an inevitable abortion in a hemodynamically stable patient, especially when a non-viable intrauterine pregnancy is confirmed.
*Dilation and curettage*
- **Dilation and curettage (D&C)** is an invasive surgical procedure to remove retained products of conception.
- While effective, the patient explicitly expressed concerns about invasive procedures, and her stable condition allows for less invasive options first.
*Oxytocin therapy*
- **Oxytocin therapy** is typically used to induce labor or augment contractions in viable pregnancies and to manage postpartum hemorrhage.
- It is not routinely used as the primary management for an inevitable abortion in the first trimester, especially when the patient is hemodynamically stable and other conservative options are available.
Question 219: a 34-year-old G2P2 woman presents to her obstetrician because of new onset discharge from her breast. She first noticed it in her bra a few days ago, but now she notes that at times she's soaking through to her blouse, which is mortifying. She was also concerned about being pregnant because she has not gotten her period in 3 months. In the office ß-HCG is negative. The patient's nipple discharge is guaiac negative. Which of the following therapies is most appropriate?
A. Carbidopa-levodopa
B. Cabergoline (Correct Answer)
C. Leuprolide
D. Tamoxifen
E. Haloperidol
Explanation: ***Cabergoline***
- This patient presents with **galactorrhea** (new-onset breast discharge, soaking through clothes) and **amenorrhea** (no period in 3 months) with a negative pregnancy test, strongly suggesting **hyperprolactinemia**.
- **Cabergoline** is a **dopamine agonist** that effectively suppresses **prolactin secretion** from the pituitary gland, making it the most appropriate treatment.
*Carbidopa-levodopa*
- This medication is primarily used to treat **Parkinson's disease** by increasing dopamine levels in the brain to improve motor symptoms.
- While it modulates dopamine, it is not the first-line treatment for **hyperprolactinemia** and its side effects profile is less favorable for this indication compared to specific dopamine agonists like cabergoline.
*Leuprolide*
- **Leuprolide** is a **GnRH agonist** that initially stimulates and then downregulates pituitary production of gonadotropins, leading to suppressed estrogen and testosterone levels.
- It is used to treat conditions like **endometriosis**, **uterine fibroids**, and **prostate cancer**, but it does not directly address hyperprolactinemia or galactorrhea.
*Tamoxifen*
- **Tamoxifen** is a **selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)** used primarily in the treatment and prevention of **estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer**.
- It works by blocking estrogen's effects on breast tissue and has no direct role in managing **hyperprolactinemia** or associated symptoms like galactorrhea.
*Haloperidol*
- **Haloperidol** is a **first-generation antipsychotic** that blocks dopamine receptors, leading to a significant increase in prolactin levels.
- Administering haloperidol would **worsen** the patient's hyperprolactinemia and associated symptoms, making it an inappropriate and contraindicated therapy in this scenario.
Question 220: A 24-year-old G1P0 presents to her obstetrician at 26 weeks’ gestation complaining of worsening headaches and blurry vision. Her past medical history is notable for hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Her temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure is 160/95 mmHg, pulse is 100/min, and respirations are 18/min. On physical exam, she is tender to palpation in her abdomen and has mild edema in her extremities. A urine dipstick demonstrates 3+ protein. The patient is immediately started on IV magnesium sulfate, diazepam, and a medication that affects both a- and ß-adrenergic receptors. Which of the following medications is most consistent with this mechanism of action?
A. Pindolol
B. Labetalol (Correct Answer)
C. Esmolol
D. Propranolol
E. Metoprolol
Explanation: ***Labetalol***
- **Labetalol** is an **alpha-beta blocker** that is commonly used to treat **hypertensive emergencies** in pregnancy, such as **severe preeclampsia**.
- It works by blocking both **alpha-1 adrenergic receptors** (causing vasodilation) and **beta-1/2 adrenergic receptors** (reducing heart rate and contractility).
*Pindolol*
- **Pindolol** is a **beta-blocker** with **intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA)**, meaning it partially stimulates beta receptors while blocking the effects of norepinephrine.
- It primarily affects beta-adrenergic receptors and does not significantly block alpha-adrenergic receptors.
*Esmolol*
- **Esmolol** is a **short-acting, cardioselective beta-1 blocker** primarily used for acute management of **tachycardia** and **hypertension** in critical care settings.
- It does not have significant alpha-adrenergic blocking activity.
*Propranolol*
- **Propranolol** is a **non-selective beta-blocker** that blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
- It does not have alpha-adrenergic blocking activity.
*Metoprolol*
- **Metoprolol** is a **selective beta-1 blocker** (cardioselective) mainly used for **hypertension**, **angina**, and **heart failure**.
- It primarily affects beta-1 adrenergic receptors and does not have significant alpha-adrenergic blocking activity.