Oncology
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Time limit: 250 minutes
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Question 1
A 60-year-old male presents to the clinic with persistent cough, weight loss, and hemoptysis. He is a long-time smoker and lives in an urban area. Upon examination, he mentions frequent exposure to smoke from cooking indoors. Given his history and symptoms, what is the most likely primary risk factor for his condition? Question: What is the primary risk factor contributing to this patient's symptoms and potential diagnosis?
Explanation
Tobacco use is the main risk factor for lung cancer, responsible for about 90% of cases. The patient's history as a long-time smoker aligns with this risk factor and his symptoms suggest lung pathology. Other options do not directly relate to his primary risk of lung cancer.
Question 2
A 45-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer is concerned about her own risk. She leads a sedentary lifestyle, is overweight, and has recently started hormonal therapy. What key modifications can she make to help reduce her risk of developing breast cancer? Question: Which of the following lifestyle changes should the patient prioritize to effectively reduce her risk?
Explanation
Engaging in regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer. The other options either increase risk factors or do not contribute to risk reduction.
Question 3
A patient diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B is undergoing screening for liver cancer. They are informed they will have an AFP test and abdominal ultrasound every 6-12 months. Why is it important to monitor this patient closely for liver cancer? Question: What is the primary reason for this surveillance protocol?
Explanation
Monitoring patients with active chronic hepatitis is crucial for early detection of liver cancer, improving treatment outcomes. The other options do not address the specific reason for monitoring.
Question 4
An individual presents with symptoms suggesting lung cancer, including a persistent cough and chest pain. A CT scan reveals localized disease. As part of their management, the medical team holds a multidisciplinary meeting to discuss treatment options. What is the primary treatment option for this patient? Question: What is the first-line treatment approach for this patient based on their CT findings?
Explanation
Surgery is the first-line treatment for localized non-small-cell lung cancer with the intention of curing the patient. The other options are typically not first-line for localized disease.
Question 5
A 35-year-old female patient is evaluated for the risk of cervical cancer. Her sexual history reveals multiple partners and no history of HPV vaccination. What is the most critical preventive measure she should be advised to undertake?
Explanation
Engaging in safe sex practices is essential to prevent HPV infection, which is a significant risk factor for cervical cancer. The other options do not contribute to cancer prevention.
Question 6
A 60-year-old male presents to the clinic with persistent cough and weight loss. He is a long-time smoker and lives in an urban area. Upon examination, you find signs of lymphadenopathy and a CT scan reveals a mass in the upper lobe of the right lung. Given the patient's smoking history and demographic, which of the following pathophysiological processes is most likely contributing to his condition? Question: What is the most probable mechanism that underlies the development of lung cancer in this patient, taking into consideration his risk factors?
Explanation
The correct analysis identifies the role of tobacco as a strong carcinogen that facilitates mutations in proto-oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled growth and cancer development. Urban pollution may contribute, but the smoking history directly correlates to oncogenic mutations in this context. Chronic inflammation from pollution alone does not account for the typical mechanisms seen in tobacco-related cancers.
Question 7
A 25-year-old woman presents with abnormal vaginal discharge and is found to be positive for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. She has a history of unprotected sexual intercourse with multiple partners and smokes socially. Given her HPV status and her behavior, what preventive measure should be prioritized to mitigate her cancer risk in the future? Question: Which intervention would be most effective in reducing her risk of developing cervical cancer?
Explanation
The optimal preventive measure is the HPV vaccination, which targets strains known to lead to cervical cancer. Although smoking cessation and safe sexual practices are important for overall health, they do not directly address the specific risk associated with HPV. Surveillance via Pap smears, while necessary, does not serve as a preventive measure.
Question 8
An elderly patient is evaluated for high levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma following a recent diagnosis of chronic hepatitis B infection and liver cirrhosis. Considering the specific cancer-related genetics, what genetic predisposition is most likely influencing the pathophysiological progression to cancer in this patient? Question: Which genetic factor is most critical in this case for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma?
Explanation
Mutations in DNA repair genes play a significant role in the conversion of chronic liver injury and inflammation into cancer, particularly in the setting of viral hepatitis. While proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes can contribute, the history of chronic liver disease due to hepatitis is closely linked to DNA repair deficiencies.
Question 9
A 45-year-old female with a family history of breast cancer and a personal history of obesity and physical inactivity comes for routine screening. Her BMI is 32, and she inquires about strategies to mitigate her cancer risk. Question: Considering her risk profile, which integrated approach would provide the best overall reduction in her risk of breast cancer?
Explanation
The most comprehensive strategy involves addressing her weight and physical activity levels, coupled with appropriate screening guidelines, thus combining primary prevention with early detection. While genetic counseling may be valuable, the immediate interventions focus on lifestyle changes that can mitigate risk effectively.
Question 10
A 36-year-old male with a history of heavy alcohol consumption is evaluated for recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms. An endoscopy reveals signs of chronic gastritis, and a biopsy shows Helicobacter pylori infection. Considering the associated risk factors, what is the primary concern regarding his cancer risk in relation to his current health status? Question: What cancer should clinicians most vigilantly monitor for in this patient due to his risk factors?
Explanation
The most relevant monitoring concern for this patient is gastric cancer, given the combination of persistent infection with H. pylori and the inflammatory effects of alcohol on the gastric mucosa. While esophageal and liver cancers pose risks, they are secondary considerations in the context of his documented gastrointestinal pathology.
Question 11
A 65-year-old male presents with persistent cough, hemoptysis, and unintentional weight loss. He has a 40-pack-year smoking history and lives in a metropolitan area. A CT scan shows a mass in the right upper lobe and enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes. Given this presentation, what is the most likely initial management strategy? Question: What should be the first-line management approach for this patient's lung mass?
Explanation
For this patient with suspected lung cancer, especially given the risk factors and imaging findings, the best approach would be surgery if the disease is confirmed to be localized. While obtaining a biopsy is crucial, early surgical management is often prioritized in the treatment plan.
Question 12
A 55-year-old female presents with abdominal pain and jaundice. Her medical history is significant for hepatitis B infection and moderate alcohol use. Workup reveals an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. A liver ultrasound shows a mass suspicious for hepatocellular carcinoma. What preventive measure should she have prioritized in her earlier health management? Question: Which of the following strategies should she have implemented to potentially reduce her cancer risk?
Explanation
This patient presents with risk factors that significantly increase her likelihood of developing liver cancer. Avoidance of alcohol is crucial in a patient with chronic hepatitis B, as it directly contributes to the pathophysiology of liver cancer.
Question 13
A 40-year-old male has been suffering from fatigue, weight loss, and bone pain. His clinical evaluation suspects multiple myeloma. Given the complex interaction of disease factors and treatment options, what is the most important risk factor that may have contributed to his condition? Question: Which factor should clinicians consider a significant contributor to his potential diagnosis?
Explanation
This scenario highlights the importance of recognizing environmental and lifestyle risk factors in the etiology of certain cancers, particularly ionizing radiation in relation to multiple myeloma.
Question 14
A 35-year-old female presents for a routine examination. She inquires about ways to decrease her risk for cervical cancer. She is sexually active and has had multiple partners but has not yet received the HPV vaccine. What intervention should be recommended as a priority? Question: What strategy would most effectively lower her risk for developing cervical cancer?
Explanation
While regular cervical screening is important, initiating the HPV vaccination provides a crucial preventive measure against the major causative factor for cervical cancer. Thus, vaccination should be prioritized in this scenario.
Question 15
A patient presents with a history of heavy smoking and exposure to indoor coal smoke, now experiencing persistent cough and worsening shortness of breath. Upon diagnostic imaging, a mass is identified in the lung. Consider the multiple potential causes of lung cancer; what additional risk factor should be evaluated in the context of this patient’s situation? Question: Which factor should be specifically assessed in this patient to understand their lung cancer risk better?
Explanation
In the context of this patient with clear environmental risk factors for lung cancer, understanding genetic susceptibility would be key in evaluating the comprehensive risk, especially considering their heavy smoking history.
Question 16
A 55-year-old male presents to the clinic with a persistent cough, weight loss, and hemoptysis. He has a history of smoking for 30 years and has recently moved to an urban area. On examination, he exhibits signs of respiratory distress. Given his risk factors and clinical presentation, which of the following cancer types is he most likely at risk for? Question: Which type of cancer is most strongly associated with his smoking history and urban living conditions?
Explanation
Lung cancer is widely recognized as primarily caused by smoking, accounting for about 90% of cases. Given the patient's significant smoking history and urban environment, he is at high risk for developing lung cancer. Stomach cancer, breast cancer, and cervical cancer have different risk factors that are not directly related to this patient’s circumstances.
Question 17
A 45-year-old woman comes to the clinic for routine screening. She has a family history of breast cancer and has been sedentary, overweight, and consumes alcohol regularly. Considering her lifestyle factors and family history, what should be her primary focus in cancer prevention strategies? Question: Which preventive measure should she prioritize to reduce her risk of breast cancer?
Explanation
Increasing physical activity and achieving a healthy weight are critical strategies in reducing the risk of breast cancer, especially in individuals with a family history. Alcohol consumption and poor dietary choices can increase the risk, making diet and lifestyle modification essential elements of preventative care.
Question 18
A patient diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B is advised to have regular screenings for liver cancer. He expresses concern about the effectiveness of the tests and whether he should be worried about the prognosis. Considering the recommended screening protocol, what is the most appropriate testing frequency after his initial diagnosis? Question: How often should this patient ideally undergo screening for liver cancer?
Explanation
Patients with chronic hepatitis B should be screened for liver cancer with AFP and abdominal ultrasound every 6 to 12 months, as this regular monitoring can help in early detection and improve outcomes. Monthly or infrequent screening is not supported by clinical guidelines.
Question 19
A 30-year-old man is diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). His previous history reveals occupational exposure to radiation and heavy metals. Given his occupational risk factors, which statement accurately reflects the treatment considerations for his condition? Question: What might be an important component of his treatment strategy based on his exposure history?
Explanation
Patients with AML can benefit from standard chemotherapy protocols, and given his history of exposure, discussing clinical trials could offer additional treatment options. Avoiding chemotherapy or focusing solely on supportive care would typically not be appropriate strategies for managing AML.
Question 20
A 65-year-old woman presents with dysphagia and weight loss. She has a significant smoking and alcohol use history. Considering her risk factors, a diagnosis of esophageal cancer is suspected. Which screening tool would most appropriately assist in confirming the diagnosis for this patient? Question: Which investigation is most suitable for this patient to evaluate for esophageal cancer?
Explanation
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is the primary investigation for evaluating esophageal cancer as it allows for direct visualization and biopsy of the esophagus. Other imaging modalities are less definitive for diagnosis.
Question 21
A 60-year-old smoker presents with persistent cough and weight loss. Imaging reveals a lung mass, and subsequent biopsy shows non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). The patient's risk factors include a 40-year history of smoking, urban living, and previous exposure to radon. Which of the following management strategies should be prioritized for this patient? Question: Considering the patient's smoking history and type of lung cancer, what should be the initial approach to treatment?
Explanation
The correct approach is surgical resection, as it is the first-line treatment for operable non-small cell lung cancer, which is typically isolated in the lungs at presentation. Chemotherapy is often used post-surgery for adjuvant therapy but should not be the first step in an operable patient. Palliative care alone is inappropriate early in the disease when curative options are available.
Question 22
Given the patient's history, what specific risk factor is the most significant in evaluating her risk of cancer recurrence?
Explanation
The patient's obesity and inactivity are critical factors in recurrence risk and management. While family history and previous treatments are important, they don't have as direct an impact on recurrence risk as lifestyle factors and obesity, which are independently associated with worse outcomes in breast cancer.
Question 23
A 45-year-old male presents with severe fatigue and unexplained weight loss. Cancer screening revealed elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and an abdominal ultrasound indicated liver abnormalities. The patient has a history of chronic hepatitis B and moderate alcohol use. Which strategy should be prioritized in this patient to minimize cancer development? Question: What proactive measure is most appropriate for this patient to address his cancer risk?
Explanation
Counseling the patient to discontinue alcohol use is critical because alcohol exacerbates liver disease and increases the risk of progression to hepatocellular carcinoma in the setting of chronic hepatitis B. While monitoring and antiviral therapy may be crucial, modifying alcohol consumption is a key preventive strategy.
Question 24
A 30-year-old woman has been diagnosed with cervical cancer associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Her medical history reveals multiple sexual partners and inconsistent use of barriers during intercourse. When advising her on preventive measures post-treatment, what should be the primary focus of her counseling? Question: What should be emphasized in her post-treatment counseling to prevent recurrence and further complications?
Explanation
Regular screening is essential for cervical cancer survivors to monitor for potential recurrence and to adopt HPV preventive measures. While other options may have merit, they do not directly address the need for ongoing assessment and management of her cervical cancer risk.
Question 25
A 52-year-old woman is experiencing symptoms consistent with lung cancer, including a persistent cough and hemoptysis. She has a smoking history and has worked in construction where she was exposed to asbestos. Considering her occupational exposures and lifestyle choices, what should be considered in planning her management? Question: How should her exposure history influence the diagnostic and management strategy?
Explanation
Due to the history of asbestos exposure alongside smoking, it is essential to screen for both lung cancer and mesothelioma. This comprehensive approach is vital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management tailored to the specific risks associated with her occupational and lifestyle factors.
Question 26
A 55-year-old man presents to the clinic with a persistent cough and unexplained weight loss. He is a long-term smoker and has recently moved to an urban area known for high air pollution. Imaging reveals a lung mass. The patient is concerned about his risk of lung cancer. Question: Which risk factor most significantly influences his likelihood of developing lung cancer in this scenario?
Explanation
In this scenario, the patient's long-term smoking history is the primary risk factor for lung cancer, overshadowing other factors like urban air pollution. Effective screening and prevention strategies should focus on smoking cessation to mitigate his risk.
Question 27
A 45-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer presents to the clinic for a routine check-up. Her BMI is 29, and she reports minimal physical activity. She is interested in understanding her risk factors for breast cancer and any preventive measures she should adopt. Question: Which preventive strategy is likely to most significantly reduce her risk of developing breast cancer?
Explanation
For this patient, increasing physical activity and achieving a healthy weight are effective strategies for reducing the risk of breast cancer, particularly in the context of her family history.
Question 28
A 67-year-old male with a history of chronic hepatitis B and heavy alcohol use presents with abdominal pain and jaundice. Ultrasound reveals liver cirrhosis and an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. The patient is anxious about the possibility of liver cancer following this diagnosis. Question: What would be the most appropriate next step in management for cancer screening in this patient?
Explanation
In the context of liver cirrhosis and elevated AFP, regular abdominal ultrasound is the most effective approach for monitoring potential hepatocellular carcinoma, facilitating earlier intervention if cancer is detected.
Question 29
A 30-year-old woman with a history of repeated chlamydia infections comes to the clinic for her annual Pap smear. She frequently uses tobacco and expresses concerns about her risk for cervical cancer. The clinic staff advises her on preventive measures. Question: What preventive measure should be emphasized to most effectively reduce her risk of developing cervical cancer?
Explanation
In this case, emphasizing smoking cessation is vital due to its association with increasing the risk of cervical cancer and its negative impact on overall health, alongside recommending HPV vaccination.
Question 30
A 62-year-old man who has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents to the emergency department with hemoptysis and difficulty breathing. He has a 40-pack-year smoking history. A CT scan reveals a suspicious lung mass. The multidisciplinary team must decide on further evaluation and management. Question: Which approach would best guide the next steps in managing this patient’s condition?
Explanation
In this patient, performing a bronchoscopy is the most appropriate next step as it enables the diagnosis of the lung mass and guides subsequent treatment options based on pathological findings.
Question 31
A 55-year-old male presents with persistent cough, unintentional weight loss, and hemoptysis. He has a 30-year history of tobacco use and works in an urban environment with exposure to air pollution. A chest X-ray reveals a lung mass and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Given his history and clinical presentation, which factors should be primarily considered in his management strategy? Question: What is the most critical aspect to address in the management of this patient with a suspected lung cancer diagnosis?
Explanation
Given the patient's risk factors and presentation, surgical resection is often the first-line treatment for localized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), assuming staging confirms resectability. Early intervention is crucial in improving survival outcomes. Immediate chemotherapy would not address the primary tumor initially, and radiotherapy without staging may not be appropriate. Observation could delay crucial treatment.
Question 32
A 45-year-old woman comes to the clinic complaining of joint pain and fatigue. She is a long-term smoker and has a high BMI, with a recent diagnosis of hyperlipidemia. Family history reveals breast cancer in her mother and cousin. Considering her lifestyle, genetic risk, and current health status, what screening recommendations should be prioritized for this patient? Question: Which cancer screening should be most strongly emphasized for this patient based on her risk factors?
Explanation
This patient’s family history of breast cancer along with her risk factors, including obesity, supports the need for early breast cancer screening (mammogram). While screening for colorectal cancer and lung cancer is also important, the established risk from her family history takes precedence for breast cancer screening. HPV screening is relevant but less so than breast cancer in her case.
Question 33
During a community health event, a physician discusses cancer prevention strategies. A participant mentions their concern about exposure to air pollution and smoking, as well as a lifestyle involving high vegetable intake but low physical activity. What conclusions can be drawn about the relative importance of these factors in cancer development? Question: Which of the following should be emphasized as the most significant contributor to lung cancer risk in this context?
Explanation
While a healthy diet may help lower cancer risk, smoking is the most significant contributing factor to lung cancer. Air pollution also plays a role, but it does not outweigh the established impact of tobacco use. Thus, counseling regarding smoking cessation should be a priority for cancer prevention.
Question 34
A patient with chronic hepatitis B infection and fatty liver disease is being evaluated for liver cancer surveillance. The physician notes the importance of regular screening in this population. Which screening protocol is appropriate for this patient considering his risk factors? Question: What would be the best screening recommendation for this patient to detect liver cancer early?
Explanation
For patients with chronic hepatitis B and fatty liver, the established screening method is annual measurement of AFP alongside an abdominal ultrasound every 6-12 months. This approach allows for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma, which is crucial for improving survival outcomes. CT or MRI are less frequently used and an invasive biopsy would not be the first-line screening approach.
Question 35
A research study investigates the genetic predisposition to cancer among individuals with family histories of multiple types of cancer, including lymphoma and colon cancer. Participants undergo genetic testing to identify proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor gene mutations. Considering this context, what is the relevance of identifying mutations in these genes for cancer prevention strategies? Question: How does understanding genetic mutations influence cancer prevention and screening measures?
Explanation
Identifying genetic mutations plays a crucial role in shaping personalized screening and prevention strategies. These mutations can help determine a patient’s risk level and inform targeted interventions, making it possible to take preventative measures tailored to individual genetic risks rather than relying solely on familial history or environmental factors.
Question 36
A 55-year-old male with a 30-pack-year history of smoking presents with a persistent cough and hemoptysis. He also reports weight loss and has a family history of lung cancer. Given his demographics and clinical presentation, which of the following factors most significantly contributes to his risk of developing lung cancer? Question: What is the most likely primary risk factor for this patient’s lung cancer?
Explanation
The patient’s significant smoking history places him at extremely high risk for developing lung cancer, making tobacco use the most critical risk factor in this scenario. Other factors may contribute, but none are as predominately linked as smoking.
Question 37
A 42-year-old female presents for a routine check-up. She has a sedentary lifestyle, is overweight, and consumes alcohol regularly. She is concerned about her risk of developing various types of cancer. Considering her lifestyle and dietary choices, which preventive measure should be prioritized to reduce her risk of developing breast cancer? Question: What is the most effective preventive strategy for this patient?
Explanation
In this scenario, increasing physical activity is the most holistic approach to reduce her risk of breast cancer, especially given that obesity and inactivity are significant risk factors for cancer development.
Question 38
A middle-aged man relocated from a rural area to an urban setting and soon began experiencing respiratory symptoms. He has a past medical history of high tobacco usage. Considering his change in environment and habits, which of the following factors is most likely worsening his condition? Question: What is the most likely contributor to his worsening respiratory symptoms?
Explanation
The transition from a rural to an urban environment likely exposed him to increased levels of air pollution, aggravating his respiratory symptoms, especially considering his history of tobacco use.
Question 39
A 60-year-old woman with a history of chronic Hepatitis C is being monitored for liver cancer. She has been compliant with her medical follow-up and does not exhibit symptoms of liver failure. Which screening method is most appropriate for her ongoing surveillance? Question: What is the recommended screening method for this patient?
Explanation
The most appropriate screening for this patient is the combination of AFP and abdominal ultrasound, as it is effective in detecting early-stage liver cancer, especially in the context of chronic hepatitis infections.
Question 40
A 35-year-old male patient with no significant past medical history presents with unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever. He recently traveled to regions with endemic Burkitt’s Lymphoma. Considering his symptoms and history, what is the most likely underlying cause of his condition? Question: What is the most likely etiology of this patient’s presentation?
Explanation
The symptoms and travel history strongly suggest an infection-driven process, specifically pointing towards Epstein-Barr virus as a significant etiological factor in Burkitt’s Lymphoma development.
Question 41
A 55-year-old male smoker presents to the clinic with persistent cough and hemoptysis. A chest X-ray shows a mass in the right lung, and a CT scan reveals mediastinal lymphadenopathy. The patient has a history of chronic exposure to urban air pollution and works in a factory with known asbestos exposure. Given his history and presentation, which risk factor is most significantly associated with the development of lung cancer in this patient? Question: What should be considered the primary risk factor contributing to this patient's lung cancer?
Explanation
While urban air pollution and asbestos are both significant risk factors for lung cancer, tobacco use remains the most dominant and direct cause, contributing to 90% of lung cancer cases. Therefore, it is the primary risk factor in this patient's case, irrespective of his other exposures.
Question 42
A 48-year-old woman with a family history of breast cancer presents with weight gain and decreased physical activity due to recent surgery. She is concerned about her cancer risk and is seeking advice on preventive measures. Which combination of strategies should be recommended to her to effectively reduce her risk of breast cancer? Question: Which preventative strategies are most evidence-based for this patient's scenario?
Explanation
Evidence supports that increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are key strategies that can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer, especially in patients with a family history. Therefore, more sedentary behavior and poor dietary choices would only increase her risk, making the correct choice to promote physical activity and healthy weight management.
Question 43
A 62-year-old male diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C is screened for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels and abdominal ultrasonography. The patient's AFP levels rise significantly over time despite regular screening. Which pathophysiological mechanism could explain the rise in AFP levels in this setting? Question: What is the most likely explanation for the continued increase in his AFP levels?
Explanation
Elevated AFP levels in patients with chronic liver disease often indicate the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in the context of rising levels despite monitoring. This is a characteristic association and indicates a specific tumorigenic process underway.
Question 44
A 45-year-old woman presents with weight gain, increased appetite, and generalized fatigue. Blood tests reveal high levels of cortisol and loss of suppression in a dexamethasone suppression test. After ruling out other causes of hypercortisolism, she is diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome due to ectopic ACTH production from small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). What management strategy should be prioritized in this case? Question: Which intervention should be implemented to address both the hormonal disturbances and the underlying malignancy?
Explanation
In cases of ectopic ACTH production by tumors, addressing the underlying malignancy through surgical resection, when feasible, is critical to effectively managing the resultant hormonal disturbances. The other options do not target the primary issue.
Question 45
A 35-year-old male presents with fatigue, weight loss, and new-onset hypercalcemia. A workup reveals a significant increase in parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) levels, suspected to be paraneoplastic in origin. Considering the common cancers associated with this syndrome, which type of malignancy is most likely causing these symptoms? Question: What type of cancer should be investigated further as the potential source of this paraneoplastic syndrome?
Explanation
Hypercalcemia due to PTHrP is most commonly associated with lung cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Other cancers may cause hypercalcemia, but SCLC and other lung cancers are well-known paraneoplastic syndromes involving PTHrP secretion.
Question 46
A 58-year-old male smoker presents with a persistent cough and hemoptysis over the past three months. He lives in an urban area and has also been exposed to asbestos in his previous job as a construction worker. A chest X-ray reveals an opacity in the right lung. The initial workup should explore the type of lung cancer that is most likely given his history and demographics. Question: What type of lung cancer is most likely to be causing his symptoms?
Explanation
In this scenario, given the patient's smoking history, urban living, and exposure to asbestos, the correct choice is squamous cell carcinoma, which commonly affects male smokers and those with occupational hazards. Mesothelioma could also be a concern, but the clinical presentation fits squamous cell cancer more closely.
Question 47
A 45-year-old female presents with weight loss and fatigue. During her evaluation, she is found to have elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and is later diagnosed with liver cancer. Her history includes chronic hepatitis B infection and significant alcohol use. Question: Which of the following should be the cornerstone of her screening and surveillance plan for liver cancer, considering her risk factors?
Explanation
Given her chronic hepatitis B and alcohol use, the correct approach emphasizes the importance of monitoring with AFP testing and ultrasound. This strategy has proven effective in detecting liver cancer at an earlier stage for high-risk groups.
Question 48
A 35-year-old woman with a history of obesity, low physical activity, and smoking presents with persistent abdominal discomfort and changes in her bowel habits. Further evaluation reveals adenomatous polyps during a colonoscopy. Question: What is the most significant modifiable risk factor that should be addressed to reduce her risk of colorectal cancer?
Explanation
Obesity and physical inactivity are critical factors influencing colorectal cancer risk. In this case, increasing her physical activity levels would directly impact her risk profile significantly.
Question 49
A 50-year-old man with a long history of smoking presents with worsening dyspnea and chest pain. Imaging reveals multiple lesions throughout the lung fields consistent with metastatic disease. His medical history does not include any known previous cancer but includes extensive occupational exposure to various chemicals. Question: What is the most likely origin of the cancer in this patient, considering his presentation and risk factors?
Explanation
The patient's extensive occupational exposure and smoking history contribute to a high risk for malignancies; in this case, it's likely presenting as metastatic cancer rather than a primary lung cancer.
Question 50
A 30-year-old woman diagnosed with cervical dysplasia is found to be HPV-positive. She has a history of multiple sexual partners and does not practice safe sex. A follow-up PAP smear shows worsening dysplastic changes. Question: Considering her risk factors and diagnosis, what is the most effective strategy for her cancer prevention moving forward?
Explanation
For this patient with HPV and cervical dysplasia, the most effective strategy to reduce her cancer risk is vaccination against HPV, which can prevent the progression to cervical cancer. Regular screenings and safe sexual practices should follow.