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OVERVIEW
This page is dedicated to organizing various examples of standardized exam questions whose answer is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While this may seem a odd practice, it is useful to see multiple examples of how RA will be characterized on standardized exams (namely the boards and the shelf exams). This page is not meant to be used as a traditional question bank (as all of the answers will be the same), however seeing the classic “test” characterization for a topic is quite valuable.
KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF THIS CONDITION (ON EXAMS)
When it comes to standardized exams, each topic has its own “code” marked by key buzzwords, lab findings, clues, etc. If you are well versed in this code you will be able to more quickly identify the condition that is being discussed, and get the right answer on the exam you are taking. Below is the “code” for RA.
- Characteristic pattern of joint involvement: MCP and PIPs involved. DIPs are typically spared.
- Pain worse in the morning/gets better with use
- Subchondral cysts mayb be present (can be noticed by patient/physical exam) near the joints.
- Ulnar finger deviation of the hands is characteristic
QUESTION EXAMPLES
Question # 1
Explanation # 1
Question # 2
Explanation # 2
TESTABLE FACTS ABOUT THIS TOPIC (BEYOND ITS IDENTIFICATION)
Many questions on standardized exams go beyond simply recognizing the underlying topic. Often there are specific testable facts regarding some aspect of the topic’s pathophysiology/management/clinical implications that are commonly asked. Some of these are listed below:
- Detectable autoantibodies: IgM agasint IgG Fc region, anti-CCP antibody (more specific for RA)
- Treatment:
- Acute management: steroids (like prednisone)
- Longer management (DMARDs):
Page Updated: 04.19.2017