Hello, Guys! It’s time to wrap up this week’s medical trivia questions with some answers and explanations. Whether you’re brushing up on your knowledge or just here for the fun facts, let’s dive in!
Friday: What’s causing that ear tugging?
A 2-year-old has a high fever, irritability, and is pulling at their ear. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Answer: A) Ear infection
This one’s classic: a young child with fever, irritability, and pulling at their ear is likely battling acute otitis media (middle ear infection). This condition is common in children due to the structure of their eustachian tubes(aka ear canal), which are shorter and more horizontal, making it easier for infections to develop. Symptoms like fever, ear pain, and irritability make this diagnosis the frontrunner. While teething can cause fussiness, it doesn’t typically come with fever. If you suspect an ear infection, a quick visit to the doctor can confirm the diagnosis and determine if antibiotics are needed.
Thursday: Lower right abdominal pain?
A 25-year-old woman comes in with abdominal pain and fever. She says the pain started near her belly button but has now moved to the lower right side. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Answer: B) Appendicitis
This is a textbook presentation of appendicitis, which is inflammation of the appendix. The pain typically starts near the belly button (referred pain) and migrates to the right lower quadrant as the inflammation progresses. Accompanying symptoms like fever, nausea, and tenderness in the lower right abdomen further support the diagnosis. This condition is a surgical emergency, so it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.
Wednesday: Sudden chest pain on deep breaths?
A patient complains of sudden chest pain that gets worse when they breathe in deeply. What could this be?
Answer: B) Pulmonary embolism
While chest pain might initially make you think of a heart attack, the detail about it worsening with deep breaths points toward a pulmonary embolism (PE). This happens when a blood clot blocks blood flow in the lungs. PEs can be life-threatening and often present with symptoms like sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and sometimes coughing up blood. If you’re ever in doubt about chest pain, always err on the side of caution and seek emergency care.
Tuesday: Yellow skin and eyes in a newborn?
A newborn has yellow skin and eyes at 2 days old. What is the most common reason for this?
Answer: C) Physiological jaundice
Physiological jaundice is the most common cause of yellowing (jaundice) in newborns within the first few days of life. It happens because their liver is still maturing and isn’t yet efficient at processing bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. This is usually harmless and resolves on its own within a week or two. However, if the jaundice is severe or lasts longer, it’s important to rule out other causes like infection or liver disease.
Monday: When do babies sit without support?
At what age do most babies start sitting without support?
Answer: B) 6 months
Most babies reach this milestone around 6 months of age. Sitting without support requires developing strong core muscles and coordination. While some babies might achieve this earlier or later, it’s important to remember that developmental milestones vary. Providing plenty of tummy time can help strengthen the muscles they need to reach this stage.
And that’s a wrap on this week’s trivia! I hope you learned something new (or reinforced what you already knew). Stay tuned for more next week.