1st Cardiovascular USMLE

A 74-year-old man presents to your office for a routine He has no present complaint His medical history is significant for right knee osteoarthritis He takes naproxen occasionally, to relieve knee pain. He does not smoke or consume alcohol His BP is 165/75 mm Hg and PR is 70/min. The physical examination showed a mild systolic ejection type murmur at the base of the heat to the right. An E-KG revealed left ventricular hypertrophy and secondary ST segment and T wave change Moderate left ventricular hypertrophy, without any flow abnormalities, was demonstrated on echocardiography. The ejection fraction was 60%. What is the most probable cause of hypertension in this patient?

A 32-year-old Caucasian female comes to the physician because of a one-week history of fatigue, progressive worsening of shortness of breath and swelling of feet. She denies any chest pain She has no other medical problems except a recent cold two weeks ago. She is not taking any medication Her temperature is 36 7 C (98 F), blood pressure is 110/65 mmHg, pulse is g0/min, and respirations are 20/min Bilateral basal crackles, elevated jugular venous pressure, and 2+ bilateral pitting edema of the ankles are noted Complete blood count is unremarkable. Transthoracic echocardiogram of her heat will most likely show?

A 47-year-old woman loses consciousness for 2 minutes while shopping in a supermarket. In the emergency room, she recounts feeling nausea and warmth spreading over her body immediately before passing out She has never had a similar episode before. She has not seen a doctor for several years and does not take any medications, nor does she use tobacco, alcohol or drug. Her family history is unremarkable. Which of the following most likely caused this episode?

A 25-year-old woman experiences sudden-onset palpitations and generalized weakness. During this episode, her blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg and her heat rate is 160/min and regular. She has no significant past medical history and does not take any medications She reports having a few similar episodes in the past which she has self-treated by immersing her face in cold water Generally, she says, cold water immersion relieves her symptoms within several minutes. This cold water therapy works by affecting which of the following?

A 67-year-old man is evaluated for hypertension He complains of occasional morning headaches. His past medical history is also significant for type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and a stroke with residual left-sided weakness. He underwent coronary artery bypass surgery seven years ago and carotid endarterectomy five years ago. His current medication list includes lisinopril hydrochlorothiazide, amlodipine, metoprolol, aspirin, metformin and glyburide His blood pressure is 190/120 mmHg on the right arm and 170/110 mmHg on the left arm. His heat rate is 65/min Physical examination reveals a periumbilical systolic-diastolic bruit. The latter finding is best explained by which of the following?

A 67-year-old male is brought to the emergency department after a syncopal episode. He lost consciousness while shopping in the mall. He denies any nausea, diaphoresis, chest pain, or shortness of breath. He has had two episodes of lightheadedness over the last month but has not seen a doctor. His past medical history is significant for long-standing hypertension, which is being treated with enalapril. His blood pressure is 135/90 mmHg while supine, and 130/85 mmHg while standing His heat rate is 64/min ECG shows a sinus rhythm with high voltage, prolonged PR interval, prolonged QRS interval, normal QT interval and occasional premature ventricular contractions (PVC) E-chocardiography reveals left ventricular hypertrophy and an ejection fraction (EF) of 55% Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's syncope?

A 60-year-old male is 2 days status post primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent placement. He had previously suffered from an antero-lateral myocardial infarction. His cardiac enzymes have been trending down since admission He has recovered well and is ready for discharge He is currently asymptomatic. His temperature is 37.5 C (99.5 F), blood pressure is 130/70 mm Hg, pulse is 66/min, and respirations are 14/min He is discharged with instructions to take the following medications aspirin simvastatin, lisinopril metoprolol and sublingual nitroglycerine. In addition to the medications listed above, which of the following medications should this patient also be taking after discharge?

A 47-year-old male presents to your office with a two-month history of lethargy and decreased libido His medical records reveal that he has been treated for joint pain and swelling over the last six months and was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus one year ago Physical examination reveals hepatomegaly and testicular atrophy Which of the following cardiac abnormalities is most likely to also be present in this patient?

A 35-year-old Caucasian male is being evaluated for poor exercise tolerance and muscle weakness He has no past medical history His blood pressure ranges from 175-185 mmHg systolic and 105-1 15 mmHg diastolic on repeat measurement His heat rate is 78-g5/min His serum chemistry is significant for blood glucose of 95 mg/dL serum creatinine of 0.7mg/dL serum Na of 146 mEq/L and serum K of 2.4 mEq/l_ CT scan of the abdomen reveals a 3 cm mass in the left adrenal gland. Which of the following additional findings would you expect in this patient? Plasma renin activity, Serum aldosterone, Serum bicarbonate

A 67-year-old homeless male presents 24 hours after the onset of substernal chest pain and is diagnosed with an anterior wall myocardial infarction. There is no history of previous chest pain, dyspnea, palpitations, syncope or leg swelling. He has no hypertension or diabetes mellitus. He does acknowledge a 40 pack-year smoking history. Upon discharge, echocardiography shows normal left ventricular size, left ventricular anterior wall hypokinesis and an ejection fraction of 50%. Two years later, the patient is found dead in the street. Autopsy reveals a dilated left ventricle with a globular shape and thinned walls along with a scar on the anterior wall. Which of the following would have most likely prevented this patient's pathologic findings?

A 50-year-old woman presents to your office complaining of lower extremity edema that stated several weeks ago, and slowly progressed thereafter. Her past medical history is significant for hypertension, treated with metoprolol for 2 years. Amlodipine was added recently because of inadequate control of BP with metoprolol alone. She does not smoke or consume alcohol. She has no known drug allergies. Her blood pressure is 130/80mm Hg and her heart rate is 64/min. The physical examination reveals bilateral symmetric 3+ pitting edema of both lower extremities, without any skin changes or varicosities Her neck vein pulsation is normal. Other physical findings are within normal limits. Her laboratory studies reveal the following: Serum albumin 4.5 g/dL Total serum bilirubin 0.8 mg/dL Serum sodium 140 mEq/L Serum potassium 4.0 mEq/L Serum creatinine 0.8 mg/dL Urinalysis is within normal limite. What is the most likely cause of the edema in this patient?

A 64-year-old male who has not seen a doctor for the past 20 years presents to the emergency room with excruciating chest pain that stated suddenly about three hours ago. He describes the pain as tearing in quality and says that it radiates to his back. On physical examination, you hear an early diastolic decrescendo murmur at the sternal border. Chest x ray shows widening of the superior mediastinum. EKG is normal. Which of the following medical conditions most likely accounts for this patients presentation?

A 40-year-old female presents to the emergency room with palpitations and lightheadedness of acute onset. Also, she has experienced insomnia, fatigability, and weight loss lately. She does not smoke or consume alcohol. She is not taking any medication. Her blood pressure is 110/80 mmHg and heat rate is 120/min, irregular. Physical examination reveals lid lag and fine tremor of the outstretched hands. ECG shows atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?

A 43-year-old Caucasian man with a two-year history of diabetes mellitus presents to your office for a routine. He has no complaint His medications are metformin and aspirin. He works as a computer programmer and has a sedentary lifestyle. He drinks one to two cans of beer on weekends and smokes one pack of cigarettes per day. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 153/94 mm Hg and his heat rate is 82/min His BMI is 32.5 kg/m2. The remainder of the physical examination is unremarkable Laboratory studies reveal an HbA1c of 7.6%. At his check-up one month ago, his blood pressure was 149/92 mmHg. Which of the following interventions would be most effective for controlling his blood pressure?

A 38-year-old woman presents to the emergency room complaining of chest pain for the past several hours She describes it as sharp, centrally located and non-radiation. The pain worsens somewhat with inspiration and movement. The patient denies having fevers, chills, dyspnea, swelling, or difficulty breathing at night. She says she first noticed the pain while exercising three weeks ago, but has experienced it at rest as well. She says that she has been exercising heavily in an attempt to lose weight. Her BMI is currently 34kg/m2. Her father had a myocardial infarction at age 60. Her medical history is significant for two normal vaginal deliveries. She smokes a half-pack of cigarettes daily. On physical examination, her blood pressure is 112/69 mm Hg and her heat rate is 72/min. Cardiac exam reveals a regular Sl and S2 without extra sounds or murmurs There is tenderness to palpation over the sternum. What is the most likely cause of her chest pain?

A 63-year-old man presents to the ER with substernal chest pain and diaphoresis. The pain stated one hour ago and did not remit with antacids. He has a past medical history of asthma for which he uses inhaled fluticasone and peptic ulcer disease for which he takes omeprazole. His family history is significant for prostate cancer in his father and breast cancer in his mother. Physical examination reveals a blood pressure of 160/100 mmHg and a heat rate of 90/min. A bruit is heard over the right carotid artery and a mild systolic murmur is present at the cardiac apex Sublingual nitroglycerin and aspirin are administered in the. Within minutes, the patient reports decreased pain. Which of the following most likely accounts for this improvement in his symptoms?

A 38-year-old female comes to your office complaining of occasional palpitations She describes feeling a fast and irregular heartbeat Over the past two months, she has had three such episodes, each lasting about two hours She denies any associated chest pain, shortness of breath cough or ankle swelling. She drinks alcohol on social occasions and does not smoke cigarettes She has no other medical problems and is not taking any medications On physical examination, her temperature is 37.1 C (98.9F), pulse is 80/min, blood pressure is 130/70mmHg, and respirations are 14/min. On auscultation of her heat the apical impulse is displaced and there is an S3. You also hear a pansystolic murmur, which is loudest at the apex and radiates to the axilla. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her symptoms?

A 42-year-old woman is evaluated for depression, mood swings and poor. She also complains of mild headaches and muscle weakness. She has had two ER Visits for kidney stones over the past year. She denies any illicit drug use. Her blood pressure is 160/105 mmHg and her heat rate is 85/min. Her laboratory findings are shown below: Sodium 140mEq/L Potassium 3.6 mEq/L Chloride 101 mEq/L Bicarbonate 24 mEq/L BUN 13 mEq/L Creatinine 0.9 mEq/L Glucose 98 mEq/L Calcium 11.7 mg/dL Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's hypertension?

A 14-year-old African American male is referred to your office after his older brother experienced sudden cardiac arrest during hiking trip. He has no current complaints. He denies any illicit drug use His blood pressure is 110/60 mmHg and his heat rate is 75/min. Neck is supple, no jugular venous distention is appreciated. Carotid pulse seems to have dual upstroke. Lungs are clear. There is strong apical impulse and a systolic ejection type murmur along the left sternal border. Which of the following is most likely to increase the murmur intensity in this patient?

A 60-year-old male is brought to ER by his son because he had an episode of syncope. He was watching TV in an arm-chair when suddenly lost his consciousness without any warning sign. He had several clonic jerks while unconscious He never had such an episode before. His past medical history is significant for acute myocardial infarction six months ago and well-controlled hypertension. His current medications include captopril metoprolol hydrochlorothiazide, clopidogrel and aspirin. His blood pressure is 130/85 mmHg and heat rate is 80/min with frequent ectopic beat. Physical examination revealed mild holosystolic apical murmur radiating to the axilla. Which of the following is the most probable pathophysiologic mechanism for his syncopal episode?

A 45-year-old recently immigrated Mexican farmer comes to your office complaining of dyspnea, fatigue and abdominal distention for the past two months. On physical exam, his temperature is 37 C (98F), blood pressure is 126/80 mmHg, pulse is 80/min, and respirations are16/min. You note pedal edema, elevated jugular venous pressure with positive Kussmaul's sign, and increased abdominal girth with free fluid. Chest auscultation reveals decreased heart sound intensity at the apex and an early heart sound following S2 The jugular venous pressure tracing shows prominent 'x and 'y' descents. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

A 54 year-old male comes to the physician because of abdominal distention He thinks his big belly is making it hard for him to breathe He received radiation therapy for Hodgkin lymphoma several years ago and was told that he is cured He drinks alcohol on a regular basis His temperature is 36.7C (98F), blood pressure is 120/76 mm Hg, pulse is 80/min and respirations are 20/min Examination shows a jugular venous pressure7 cm above the sternal angle Dullness to percussion and decreased breath sounds are noted in the right lung base The abdomen is quite distended with an obvious fluid wave Mild hepatomegaly is present Extremities have 2+ lower extremity edema. Initial laboratory studies are shown below: Serum creatinine 08 mg/dL Alburnin 4.0 mg/dL Total bihrubin 1.0 mg/dl Prothrombin time 11 sec Urinalysis is within normal limits. Which of the following is the most likely cause of his condition?

A 32-year-old woman presents with progressively worsening dyspnea on exertion one month after returning from a vacation in Texas. She says that her symptoms have progressed to the point that she now wakes during the night with a choking sensation that improves only with sitting up. Recently her shortness of breath has required her to significantly limit her physical activity. She denies having associated chest pain, skin rash or joint pain She has no significant past medical history. Family history is significant for thyroid cancer in her aunt and lung cancer in her father, a heavy smoker. On physical examination, her temperature is 37.20C (99 F), pulse is g6/min, blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg, and respirations are 14/min. Bilateral pitting ankle edema is present. Her liver is enlarged 2 cm below the right costal marginal. Lung auscultation reveals decreased breath sounds at the bilateral bases. Cardiac exam reveals the presence of a third heat sound. Chest x ray shows an enlarged cardiac silhouette and small bilateral pleural effusion. EKG is unremarkable. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her symptoms?

A 45-year-old mildly overweight male recovering from an anterior wall myocardial infarction develops sudden onset of sharp pain in the left side of his chest He presented five days earlier with substernal chest pain and diaphoresis. He has had no dyspnea, extremity swelling or palpitations since admission. His past medical history is significant for diabetes mellitus type 2. He seems mildly restless, especially in the supine position. The pain improves when sitting up and leaning forward. His breathing is fast and shallow due to the pain. His lungs are clear on auscultation. His blood pressure is 120/78 mmHg and his heart rate is 60/min There is no change in blood pressure upon deep inspiration. ECG shows sinus rhythm with new diffuse ST segment elevation. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 64-year-old man complains of palpitations and progressive shortness of breath over the past several hours. He says that he also develops a choking sensation every time he tries to lie down. His medical history is significant for hypertension for the past 20 years and medication non-compliance. He also has a 35-year smoking history. He reports that his father died of a heart attack at age 70 and his mother suffered from asthma. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 170/100 mmHg and his heat rate is 130/min and irregularly irregular. Lung exam reveals bibasilar crackles. There is 2+ pitting edema of the lower extremities. Bedside echocardiography shows a left ventricular ejection fraction of 55%. Which of the following is most likely responsible for his symptoms?

A 22-year-old Caucasian male is evaluated for an episode of syncope that occurred while playing soccer It lasted only 2 minutes without any post-syncopal confusion, sleepiness or weakness. He had prior episodes of dizziness while playing active sports as well as vague chest discomfort. His uncle died suddenly at a young age. Auscultation of his precordium reveals a III/IV systolic murmur along the left sternal border. The patient is most likely to benefit from which of the following medications?

A 55-year-old Caucasian male presents to your office with muscle pain of recent onset. His past medical history is significant for hypertension and an acute myocardial infarction experienced 2 months ago. His current medications include metoprolol captopril, aspirin and simvastatin. His blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg and heat rate is 60/min Liver function tests are slightly abnormal. Serum creatine kinase level is elevated. You suspect a drug-induced reaction. Which of the following is the most possible mechanism of drug-induced reaction in this patient?

A 70-year-old man is brought to the Emergency Room because he lost his consciousness while working in the garden. He says that he had several episodes of near-syncope on exertion recently. His past medical history is insignificant He is not taking any medications. His blood pressure is 110/85 mmHg and heat rate is 80/min. Point of maximal impulse is increased in intensity. Cardiac auscultation reveals ejection type systolic murmur at the base of the heat with radiation to the carotid arteries. ECG demonstrates left ventricular hypertrophy, and secondary ST segment and T wave change. What is the most probable cause of this patient's condition?

A 20-year-old female presents to your office for a routine. She has no complaints and her past medical history is insignificant. She is not taking any medications and denies drug abuse. Her blood pressure is 125/65 mmHg and heat rate is 80/min. Cardiac auscultation reveals early diastolic murmur at the left sternal border. What is the next best step in the management of this patient?

A 23-year-old woman who is 26 weeks pregnant presents to the emergency department with sudden onset severe shortness of breath and inability to lie flat. She recently emigrated from Eastern Europa. Her medical history is significant for recurrent sore throats requiring tonsillectomy as a child. Presently, her blood pressure is 110/60 mmHg and her heart rate is 120/min. An EKG rhythm strip suggests atrial fibrillation. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 68-year-old man is brought to the emergency room after he passed out for one minute during an early morning jog. He was not confused after the episode and did not have bowel or bladder incontinence. He has been having exertional chest pain and shortness of breath for the past few months. He has never had any resting chest pain. He has been healthy except for hypertension, for which he takes hydrochlorothiazide. He has a 20 pack year smoking history and occasionally drinks a glass of wine. His blood pressure is 142/90 mm Hg, pulse is 80/min, and respirations are 16/min. Carotid pulse is delayed S2 is weak and an S4 is present. A grade 3/6 systolic ejection murmur is in the right 2nd intercostal space, radiating to the carotids. Neurological examination reveals no focal findings, and there are no signs of head trauma. An EKG shows left ventricular hypertrophy. The first set of cardiac enzymes is negative. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

A 63-year-old Caucasian female presents to the emergency room with a recent onset of left-sided Weakness. She has been experiencing increased fatigability, low-grade fevers and occasional palpitations over the past two months. She has lost seven pounds during the same period. Her temperature is 37C (98.6 F), pulse is 80/min (regular), blood pressure is 120/76mmHg and respirations are 14/min. Her lungs are clear. Cardiac auscultation reveals normal first and second heat sounds and a mid-diastolic rumble at the apex. Echocardiography shows a mass in the left atrium. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 43-year-old white male is found to have premature atrial complexes (PACs) on routine EKG. He denies chest pain, shortness of breath or lightheadedness. He has smoked 1-2 packs of cigarettes daily for the past 20 years. He also has a 20-year history of alcoholism, though recently he has limited his use to 1-2 beers/day The patient's family history is significant for a myocardial infarction in his mother at age 65 and a stroke in his father at age 72. He has no personal history of hypertension or diabetes. Physical examination including Vital signs, is entirely within normal limits. What is the best next step in the management of this patient?

A 60-year-old man is brought to the emergency department due to syncope. He has had similar episodes a few times during the past few weeks. These episodes usually occur after he exerts himself. He does not feel confused or tired after these episodes. He denies any chest pain or palpitation. His wife reports that when he collapses, he seems to lose consciousness for a few seconds, but then is back to being alert right away. She denies any jerking movement. His past medical history is significant diverticulosis, for which he takes fiber supplements. He is not on any other medication. His temperature is 37.1 C (98.8 F), blood pressure is 110/98 mm Hg, pulse is 88/min, and respirations are 14/min. On examination, he has a fourth heart sound and harsh 3/6 systolic murmur, best heard over the right sternal border. The murmur is accentuated on expiration. The lung fields are clear to auscultation. After performing an echocardiograph to confirm the diagnosis, which of the following management options is most appropriate?

A 12-year-old white male wants to participate in sports at school. He has been growing normally since birth. His immunizations are up-to-date and he is not suffering from any known medical conditions. Which of the following measures should be taken to screen him for underlying heart disease that could cause sudden cardiac death?

A 55-year-old male presents to the emergency room with right-sided weakness that has persisted for the past several hours. He also complains of severe central chest pain that is "ripping" in quality and radiates to his back. He has had hypertension for the past seven years and has not been taking any anti-hypertensive medication. He has been smoking one pack of cigarettes per day for the past 25 years. His father died of coronary artery disease at age 44 years. His temperature is 37.1C (98.6F), pulse is 78/min, blood pressure is 180/120 mm Hg in the right arm and 110/70 mm Hg in the left arm, and respirations are 16/min. He is diaphoretic and confuse. His neurological examination is significant for decreased power and tone in the right upper and right lower extremities. The rest of his physical examination is unremarkable ECG shows left axis-deviation and a chest x ray is normal. Based on these findings, what is the most likely diagnosis?

A 54-year-old man is brought to the ER three hours after the onset of severe, 10/10, tearing, substernal chest pain radiating to his back. He still complains of pain and dizziness at the time of arrival. Physical examination demonstrates a pale thin male who is anxious and diaphoretic. His blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg in the right arm and 70/40 mmHg in the left arm. There is an 18 mmHg difference in systolic blood pressure between inspiration and expiration. His jugular veins are distended while sitting. Bedside echocardiogram demonstrates a moderate amount of pericardial fluid. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 55-year-old white male presents to the Emergency Room with a four-hour history of chest pain. The pain is substernal and radiates to the left arm. He has a history of hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia. His temperature is 36.7 C (98 F), blood pressure is 110/65 mmHg, pulse is 110/min, and respirations are 18/min. ECG is recorded and reveals ST segment elevation in the anterior leads and several ventricular premature beats (VPBs). What would the administration of lidocaine to such a patient most likely result in?

A 67-year-old Caucasian male is hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) with an episode of prolonged hypotension and shortness of breath. His skin is cold and clammy. Intra-arterial blood pressure monitoring is established, and pulmonary artery catheterization is performed to control basic hemodynamic parameters. His blood pressure is 70/40 mmHg, and heart rate is 100/min. Cardiac output (CO) measured by thermodilution method is 2.3 Umin. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) is estimated to be 22 mmHg. Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) calculated using data on mean arterial pressure, right atrial pressure and cardiac output is 2000 dynes*s/cm5 (N= 700 - 1200 dynes*s/cm5). Which of the following is the most likely underlying problem in this patient?

A 32-year-old male complains of progressive weakness and exertional dyspnea. His past medical history is significant for a knife injury to the right thigh two months ago. He has been arrested several times for robbery. He consumes alcohol regularly, and smokes crack occasionally. His younger brother died of cystic fibrosis. His blood pressure is 160/60 mmHg, and heart rate is 100/min. His extremities are warm and flushed. Carotid upstroke is brisk. The point of maximal impulse is displaced to the left, and a soft, holosystolic murmur is heard over the cardiac apex. The murmur does not change with the Valsalva maneuver. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's symptoms?

A 21-year-old woman presents to the ED complaining of lightheadedness. Her symptoms appeared 45 minutes ago. She has no other symptoms and is not on any medications. She has a medical history of mitral valve prolapse. Her HR is 170 beats per minute and BP is 105/55 mm Hg. Physical examination is unremarkable. After administering the appropriate medication, her HR slows down and her symptoms resolve. You repeat a 12-lead ECG that shows a rate of 89 beats per minute with a regular rhythm. The PR interval measures 100 milliseconds and there is a slurred upstroke of the QRS complex. Based on this information, which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 71-year-old man is playing cards with some friends when he starts to feel a pain in the left side of his chest. His fingers in the left hand become numb and he feels short of breath. His wife calls the ambulance and he is brought to the hospital. In the ED, an ECG is performed. Which of the following best describes the order of ECG changes seen in an MI?

A 60-year-old man is brought to the ER by his wife because he lost consciousness in the bathroom at night. He says that he woke up, went to the bathroom to urinate, and fainted there. He rapidly recovered his consciousness without any indication of disorientation. He has never had such an episode before. He admits' problems with urination,' including difficulty with initiating urination and frequent awakening to void at night. He does not take any medication. His past medical history is insignificant. He smokes 2 packs of cigarettes per day and does not consume alcohol. His blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg while supine, and 132/80 while standing. His heart rate is 70/min. His physical examination is within normal limits. The ECG is normal. What is the most probable cause of the syncopal episode in this patient?

A 76-year-old man was operated on for a strangulated inguinal hernia and had approximately 40 cm of small bowel resected. On the morning of his third post-operative day, he falls while getting out of bed. Immediately after the fall, he is responsive but his speech is slurred and he cannot explain what happened. His pulse is 122/min, blood pressure is 96/50 mm Hg, and respirations are 23/min. Lungs are clear to auscultation and his heart has a regular rate and rhythm. His neck veins are distended. An ECG is remarkable for a new onset right bundle branch block (RBBB). Immediate resuscitation is started with wide open intravenous fluids, but he becomes unresponsive. Shortly thereafter, his pupils start to dilate and his heart rate drops to 45/min. He eventually dies despite resuscitative efforts. What is the most likely cause of his death?

A 57-year-old female with a past medical history of bronchial asthma presents to the physician's office for evaluation of high blood pressure. On her previous two visits, her blood pressure has been 154/88 and 150/90. Her blood pressure during this visit is 150/90 mmHg. She denies headaches and has no complaints. She uses fluticasone and albuterol inhalers for her chronic persistent asthma. She denies smoking or alcohol intake, and has no known drug allergies. Her family history is significant for myocardial infarction in both her mother and father. Exercise and a low salt diet have not improved her hypertension. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in managing this patient's hypertension?

A 53-year-old Caucasian female is admitted to the ER with hypotension. Her condition is considered very serious, and invasive hemodynamic monitoring is established. Blood pressure measured by intra-arterial method is 72/46 mmHg. Her heart rate is 120/min, regular. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) estimated using Swan-Ganz catheter is 6 mmHg. Mixed venous oxygen concentration (MVo2) is 16 vol% (Normal = 15.5 vol%). Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's condition?

A 27-year-old female presents to your office for a follow-up. The previous two visits revealed an elevated blood pressure in the range of 150-155/90-95 mm Hg. She has no present complaints. Her past medical history is insignificant. She smokes 1/2 pack of cigarettes per day and does not consume alcohol. Her current medications include a combination oral contraceptive for the last 2 years, and an occasional acetaminophen for tension headache relief. There is no family history of hypertension or heart attacks. This visit, her blood pressure is 155/95 and her heart rate is 80/min. The physical examination is unremarkable. The ECG is normal. Her total cholesterol level, measured 6 months ago, was 170 mg/dL. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A 60-year-old female comes to your office for progressive exertional dyspnea and new-onset ankle swelling. She has been recently worked up for proteinuria and easy bruisability. Otherwise her past medical history is insignificant. She has a ten pack-year history of smoking and she drinks two to three glasses of wine every day. Her temperature is 37.1 C (98.8F), blood pressure is 130/70 mm Hg, pulse is 80/min and respirations are 14/min. There is mild jugular venous distention on physical examination. Chest auscultation shows scattered bibasilar crackles. Echocardiography reveals symmetrical thickening of the ventricular walls, normal ventricular dimensions and a slightly reduced systolic function. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

During a routine office visit, a 62-year-old male is found to have a pulsatile non-tender mass above his umbilicus. His medical history is significant for hypertension, chronic renal insufficiency, myocardial infarction, and peripheral vascular disease. He quit smoking 10 years ago. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 160/90 mm Hg and pulse is 76/min. Laboratory analyses reveal a serum creatinine of 2.0 mg/dl. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in evaluating this patient's abdominal mass?

A 20-year-old white female presents with chest pain for the past few weeks. She describes the pain as sharp, located to the left of the sternum, and lasting 5-10 seconds at a time. There is no associated fever, cough, breathlessness, palpitations, or syncope. She does not smoke or drink alcohol. On cardiac examination, there is a short systolic murmur at the apex that disappears with squatting. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 42-year-old man presents to the emergency department complaining of two weeks of weakness, low-grade fevers, and exertional shortness of breath. He also notes fingertip pain and urine that has been dark and cloudy recently. On physical examination, several of his proximal interphalangeal joints are swollen. Which of the following diagnoses is most consistent with his presentation?

A 59-year-old man comes to visit his friend in the hospital and collapses in the parking lot. He had been feeling unwell all day due to vague chest discomfort. A bystander witnesses his collapse, finds no pulse, and immediately calls for help. Which of the following is the most important factor for survival in this patient?

A 73-year-old man presents to the ED after a syncopal episode. He had been resting in bed for approximately one week after injuring his right knee. This morning, his knee felt better and he attempted to get up from bed. However, upon attempting to stand, he sustained a brief loss of consciousness. He had no symptoms or medical history prior to the knee injury. Medications include acetaminophen and ibuprofen for knee pain. On exam, his pulse is 73/min, respirations are 14/min, and blood pressure is 136/83 mmHg. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's syncope?

A 59-year-old male presents to the ER with sudden onset severe chest pain associated with vomiting and diaphoresis. The pain radiates to the left shoulder and is not relieved by sublingual nitroglycerine. His past medical history is significant for diabetes mellitus for seven years and hypercholesterolemia for six years. His medications include metformin, glipizide and simvastatin. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 150/98 mmHg and pulse is 86/min. An EKG obtained in the ER shows ST segment elevations in leads aVL and I. Cardiac troponin and CK-MB are elevated. Which of the following medications should be avoided in this patient at this time?

A 46-year-old woman is hospitalized for agitation, restlessness and poor sleep. She has been complaining of headaches recently and has gained 14 pounds over the past three months. She denies any illicit drug use. Her blood pressure is 160/110 mmHg and her heart rate is 90/min. Her laboratory findings are shown below: Sodium 142 mEq/L Potassium 3.2 mEq/L Chloride 98 mEq/L Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L BUN 12 mg/dl Creatinine 0.9 mg/dl Glucose 205 mg/dl Calcium 94 mg/dl Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's hypertension?

A 55-year-old male with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatoid lung disease is admitted to the hospital with palpitations. His restrictive lung disease is of moderate severity, requiring use of 2 liters of oxygen by nasal cannula at all times. He has no known history of coronary artery disease, hypertension or diabetes. On physical examination, his blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg and heart rate is 120 and irregular. EKG shows atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular rate. Which of the following medications should be avoided in this patient?

A 37-year-old Cambodian woman presents to the emergency room with acute onset of left-sided weakness. She has been experiencing progressive exertional dyspnea, nocturnal cough and occasional hemoptysis over the past six months. She also describes frequent episodes of palpitations and irregular heartbeats. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 32-year-old anxious-appearing male is wheeled into the emergency room with the sudden onset of excruciating left-sided chest pain. His temperature is 37.2C (99F), blood pressure is 160/88 mmHg, pulse is 125/min, regular and respirations are 20/min. Physical examination is normal, except for multiple venous track marks on his extremities and atrophic nasal mucosa. An EKG is done which shows ST depression and T wave inversion in leads V1-V6. Cardiac enzymes including CK-MB and Troponin Tare not elevated. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A 67-year-old man presents to the emergency department after losing consciousness while shoveling snow near his house. He reports having had a similar episode one month ago while carrying heavy bags from the grocery store. The patient has reduced his physical activity level over the last several months because of progressive exertional dyspnea and fatigue. His past medical history is significant for diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia. Metformin and simvastatin are his only medications. Which of the following physical examination findings is most likely in this patient?

A 66-year-old white male presents for evaluation of progressively worsening dyspnea that affects him at rest and wakes him from sleep. He also notes bilateral ankle swelling. His medical history is significant for coronary artery disease for which he has undergone angioplasty and coronary artery bypass grafting. On examination today, his pulse is 86/min, blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg, and respirations are 19/min. His neck veins are distended and there is bilaterally symmetric pitting ankle edema. On chest auscultation, you hear crackles at the bilateral lung bases and a third heart sound. Chest x-ray shows an enlarged cardiacsilhouette and bilateral alveolar and interstitial pulmonary edema. Of the medications listed below, which has not been shown to improve survival in patients with the above presentation?

A 53-year-old man presents to the emergency room with squeezing chest pain that started two hours ago. He also complains of shortness of breath that is worse when lying down. He has never had pain like this before. He has no significant past medical history and he takes no medications. A routine health maintenance visit two weeks ago was normal. On physical examination in the ER, his blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg and his heart rate is 100/min. Chest auscultation reveals a grade IINI blowing systolic murmur at the cardiac apex and bibasilar crackles in the lungs. ECG shows ST segment elevations in leads I, aVL, and v1-v3. Which of the following is most likely increased in this patient?

A 35-year-old woman who has recently emigrated from Asia presents to the emergency room with acute onset of dyspnea. She denies any cough, chest pain, or fever. She has a history of rheumatic heart disease as a teen. On examination, she has an irregular pulse of 97/min, blood pressure of 125/75 mm of Hg and temperature of 37.2C (98.9F). The first heart sound is loud and a mid-diastolic rumble is heard at the apex. Crackles are present in both lung fields. ECG shows an irregularly, irregular heart rhythm and the absence of 'P' waves. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's abnormal heart rhythm?

A 17-year-old girl is brought to the ER 30 minutes after an episode where she lost consciousness. She is accompanied by her father who witnessed the event. He says that the patient recently broke up with her boyfriend and has been under a lot of stress. Her sleep has been poor. She has had three similar episodes over the last month. On exam, her heart rate is 90/min, respirations are 13/min, and blood pressure is 120/70 mmHg. She seems sleepy but can be aroused easily. She gives her correct name but is disoriented to time and place. Pupils are symmetric and reactive to light. Blood glucose level is 100 mg/dl. Which of the following findings would you most expect in this patient?

A 50-year-old construction worker continues to have elevated blood pressure of 160/95 even after a third agent is added to his antihypertensive regimen. Physical examination is normal, electrolytes are normal, and the patient is taking no over-the-counter medications. Which of the following is the best next step for this patient?

A 35-year-old male complains of substernal chest pain aggravated by inspiration and relieved by sitting up. Lung fields are clear to auscultation, and heart sounds are somewhat distant. Chest x-ray shows an enlarged cardiac silhouette. Which of the following is the best next step in evaluation?

A 32-year-old male presents to your office with concern about progressive fatigue and lower extremity edema. He has experienced decreased exercise tolerance over the past few months, and occasionally awakens coughing at night. Past medical history is significant for sickle cell anemia and diabetes mellitus. He has had multiple admissions to the hospital secondary to vasoocclusive crises since the age of three. Physical examination reveals a displaced PMI, but is otherwise unremarkable. ECG shows a first degree AV block and low voltage. Chest x-ray shows an enlarged cardiac silhouette with clear lung fields. Which of the following would be the best initial diagnostic approach?

You are performing medical screening of new military recruits when an 18-year-old male reports several episodes of palpitation and syncope over the past several years. Physical examination is unremarkable. An ECG is obtained with excerpts shown below. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A 26-year-old primigravida at 20th week gestation presents to the emergency room with a sudden onset of tearing chest pain radiating to her back and left arm. The patient is pale and diaphoretic. Her PR: 116/min; BP: 192/ 104 in left arm, and 123/65 in right arm; RR: 36/min. Her cardiac examination reveals a diastolic murmur along the left sternal border. Her previous prenatal care is not known. She is a smoker with a 10 pack/year history and drinks alcohol. Her ECG reveals mild left axis deviation and ST segment depression in lead II, Ill, and AVF. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

A 45-year-old mildly overweight male recovering from an anterior wall myocardial infarction develops sudden onset of left-sided chest pain. He appears agitated and restless. Two minutes later, he is unresponsive. His pulse is not palpable and ECG monitor shows sinus tachycardia at the rate of 130/min. He presented five days earlier with substernal chest pain and diaphoresis. He has had no dyspnea, extremity swelling or palpitations since admission. His past medical history is significant for diabetes mellitus type 2. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A 53-year-old woman presents to the physician's office with a 3-week history of burning, substernal chest pain that usually comes on with exertion and is relieved with rest. The pain does not radiate to the arms or jaw. Her past medical history is significant for bronchial asthma, type 2 diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension. A diagnosis of stable angina is suspected, and the patient is scheduled for an exercise EKG stress test. Which of her medications should be withheld 24 hours before the test?

A 50-year-old Caucasian male returns to the clinic for the evaluation of his blood pressure control. He was diagnosed with essential hypertension one year ago. He claims compliance with his reduced salt intake diet. He is currently on a thiazide diuretic and a beta-blocker. His past medical history is significant for angina, which is always relieved with sublingual nitroglycerine, but he has not had an attack of angina in over a month. He has never had a myocardial infarction. He lives with his wife and two children. He quit smoking two years ago, but previously had a 25-pack year history. He drinks 4 bottles of wine per week. His blood pressure is 150/90 mm Hg What is the best next step in management?

A 34-year-old Caucasian woman presents to your office with dyspnea and severe chest pain after returning from a trip to Central Asia. The pain is localized on the left side and increases with inspiration. She also had one episode of hemoptysis. She does not smoke or consume alcohol. She is sexually active with one partner and uses oral contraceptives. Her father died of a myocardial infarction at 52 years of age. Her temperature is 36.7C (98.F), pulse is 100/min, respirations are 28/min, and blood pressure is 110/66 mmHg. Which of the following most likely accounts for this patient's chest pain?

An 82-year-old male presents for evaluation of chronic back pain. On physical examination, he is found to have a blood pressure of 160/85 mmHg while supine and 135/70 mmHg while standing. He is otherwise healthy; his only medicine is occasional ibuprofen for back pain. Which of the following age-related changes best explains the observed finding?

A 64-year-old diabetic with a long history of uncontrolled hypertension is admitted for chest pain. ECG reveals elevated ST segments in the anterior wall leads. Cardiac enzymes are elevated and the patient is admitted to the ICU for supportive care. He receives low molecular weight heparin and is placed on a nitroglycerin drip. He continues to have chest pain and requires intravenous morphine. Three days later, the patient is transferred to the floor and he remains on bed rest. During the night the nurse on call informs you that the patient has a cold leg. On examination, the left leg is cold and there are no distal pulses. There is minimal swelling and the leg appears mottled. Emergency vascular surgery consult was placed and the appropriate treatment was given Which of the following should also be considered in this patient?

A 34-year-old woman is referred by an OB-GYN colleague for the onset of fatigue and dyspnea on exertion 1 month after her second vaginal delivery. Physical examination reveals a laterally displaced PMI, elevated jugular venous pressure and 2+pitting lower extremity edema. Echocardiogram shows systolic dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 30%. Which statement most accurately describes her condition?

A 72-year-old Caucasian male presents with shortness of breath that awakens him at night. At baseline he is able to walk less than a block before stopping to catch his breath. Physical examination findings include bilateral basilar rales and neck vein distention. The patient has a known history of congestive heart failure, and his last echocardiogram revealed an ejection fraction of 25%. The patient is compliant with a medication regimen including an ACE inhibitor, beta-blocker, and loop diuretic. Blood pressure is well controlled. What additional treatment should you begin next?

A 68-year-old male was intubated in the emergency room because of pulmonary edema. Stat echocardiogram reveals an ejection fraction of 45% and severe mitral regurgitation. In spite of aggressive diuresis with furosemide, the patient continues to require mechanical ventilation secondary to pulmonary edema. What is the best next step in treating this patient?

A 30-year-old female presents with a chief complaint of palpitations. A 24-hour Holter monitor shows occasional unifocal premature ventricular contractions and premature atrial contractions. Which of the following is the best management for this patient?

A 36-year-old man presents to your office for a routine pre-employment physical. He has no complaints except for occasional morning headaches. His father died suddenly at the age of 54. The patient's blood pressure is 175/103 mmHg in the right arm and 180/105 in the left arm. His heart rate is 82/min. His lungs are clear bilaterally and his heart sounds are normal. Bilateral, non-tender, upper abdominal masses are palpated on exam. His hemoglobin level is 15.2 g/dl and creatinine concentration is 0.8 mg/dl. Which of the following is most likely to diagnose this patient's condition?

A 52-year-old man complains of frequent chest pain. The pain typically occurs at night and is described as retrosternal and burning in quality. He leads a sedentary lifestyle but does not smoke or drink alcohol. His past medical history includes a chronic cough and occasional hoarseness. He does not take any medications. His BMI is 28.5 kg/m2 ECG stress testing reveals 1 mm ST segment depression in the inferior leads at 90% of predicted maximal heart rate. He did not experience chest pain during the stress test. Which of the following is most likely to relieve this patient's chest pain?